Oklahoma tornadoes of 10 May 2010

10 May 2010 central Oklahoma experienced an outbreak of supercell storms. Shortly after initiation storms developed mesocyclones, very large damaging hail, as well as tornadoes. Ten tornadoes occurred in a small region, including two with intensities of EF4 and two with intensities of EF3. The majority of these tornadoes were cyclonic and supercellular, however; at least two were anticyclonic and one non-supercellular.

This same region is also covered by a large number of research and operational weather radar systems, three of which are Dual Polarization radars, as well as a statewide surface mesonetwork and an Oklahoma City micronetwork. Other observations included total lightning and storm chase photography. Storm damage surveys were also carried out establishing timing and locations of these tornadoes. All this afforded the opportunity for a detailed examination of these storms and associated tornadoes from a multiplatform perspective, highlighting that of the dual polarization radars. Three dimensional tornado characteristics are examined via data synthesis including Tornadic Vortex Signatures, (TVS), associated lofted debris, and the Rear Flank Downdraft. Discussions, resulting implications and preliminary conclusions are presented.