Extended Abstract (124K)P2.7
A techinque for developing the ratio of supercell to non-supercell thunderstorms
Brian L. Barjenbruch, Univ. of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE; and A. L. Houston
A supercell is a long lived, rotating thunderstorm. These thunderstorms are frequently observed as prolific severe weather producers. Many past studies have been undertaken to gain a better knowledge of these storms. However, it is still unknown how often supercell thunderstorms occur in relation to other thunderstorm types.
This study aims to develop a radar-based technique for accurately determining the ratio of supercell to non-supercell thunderstorm. This technique uses a derivative of the Storm Cell Identification and Tracking (SCIT) algorithm along with lightning data to first identify the occurrence of thunderstorms. It then uses a derivative of the Mesocyclone Detection Algorithm (MDA) to discriminate supercells from non-supercells including those of the elevated, mini, and anticyclonic (left-moving) varieties.
This technique has been developed in a manner such that it may be applied to all United States radars with the goal of eventually developing a full climatology of the ratio across the U.S., and eventually other countries, including those in the southern hemisphere. The technique will be tested using a one year data set from the KOAX radar and results will be presented at the conference.
Poster Session 2, Climatologies and Verification
Monday, 6 November 2006, 3:00 PM-4:30 PM, Pre-Convene Space
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