Rapid-Scan Observations of Tornadogenesis, Intesification, and Decay from a Mobile Radar

On 24 May, 2011 in central Oklahoma, a mobile, rapid-scan, X-band, polarimetric radar (RaXPol) collected a high temporal and spatial resolution dataset of tornado evolution, documenting the demise of a tornado, and the subsequent genesis and intensification of a second tornado to EF-5 strength. This dataset is believed to be the first ever to observe such processes with adequate spatial resolution to resolve an intense tornado over timescales on the order of 15 seconds. The evolution of the maximum difference in inbound and outbound velocities (max delta V) across the tornado circulation its parent vortex is examined over time and height, with particular emphasis on the genesis and dissipation of the vortex.