Analysis of the Stuttgart Arkansas tornado

Arkansas experienced a severe thunderstorm and tornado outbreak during the afternoon and early evening hours of May 10, 2008. Warm, moist air surged into the state from the Gulf of Mexico region behind a warm front. High dewpoints, warm afternoon temperatures and turning winds help produce a favorable environment for severe thunderstorms. Along the frontal boundary, a HP supercell thunderstorm developed southwest of Little Rock Arkansas. As it moved eastward, the thunderstorm split into two with one cell turning right towards Stuttgart Arkansas. The mesocyclone produced an EF3 tornado that caused significant damage to homes and businesses. Tornadogenesis was observed in the field and on radar. Radar images and animation showed the rapid development of the tornado as the parent mesocyclone turns right. In addition, this study examines the physical mechanics controlling Stuttgart severe thunderstorm as it tracks along a pre-existing frontal boundary.