5.1
Evidence for the role of barotropic processes in the rear flank downdraft in tornadogenesis
Jerry M. Straka, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK; and E. N. Rasmussen
Numerous historical data sets, as well as data obtained during VORTEX, confirm that the supercell rear-flank downdraft draws down quasi-horizontal vortex lines from aloft. In this largely barotropic process, the cyclonic upward-extending lines are concentrated by stretching in the low-level updraft, leading to the formation of the tornado cyclone. The upward-extending anticyclonic member infrequently also is intensified, producing anticyclonic tornadoes which accompany their cyclonic counterparts.
Session 5, Current theories of tornadogenesis
Wednesday, 12 January 2000, 4:00 PM-5:30 PM
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