Denise BalukasLab 2 METR 835

Joplin, Missouri Tornadic Outbreak May 22 2011

Bounded Weak Echo Region

This image is the lowest tilt (0.5) base reflectivity at 22:43 UTC. The hook echo can clearly be seen over the Joplin area. The Bounded Weak Echo Region (BWER) is just to the northwest of the hook area with the highest reflectivity values. It is more subtle than I expected to find.

This image is the 0.5 degree tilt base reflectivity at 22:53 UTC. The hook echo is still clearly identifiable. The BWER is more easily identified at this time, again, just to the northwest of the inner hook region.

Low Level Mesocyclone

Base reflectivity image from 22:43 UTC. Hook echo is clearly visible at this time.

Storm relative velocity image from 22:43 UTC. Radar tilt is 0.5 degrees.

Base relative velocity image from 22:43 UTC. Radar tilt is 0.5 degrees.

Low/Mid Level Mesocyclone

Base reflectivity image from 22:43 UTC. Radar tilt is 1.5 degrees.

Storm relative velocity image from 22:43 UTC. Radar tilt is 1.5 degrees.

Base relative velocity image from 22:43 UTC. Radar tilt is 1.5 degrees.

Mid Level Mesocyclone

Base reflectivity image from 22:43 UTC. Radar tilt is 3.4 degrees.

Storm relative velocity image from 22:43 UTC. Radar tilt is 3.4 degrees.

Base relative velocity image from 22:43 UTC. Radar tilt is 3.4 degrees.

Mesocyclone Location

Tornado Vortex Signature

Radar identified location of mesocyclone. Image is from 22:43 UTC.

Radar identified location of tornado vortex signature. Image is from 22:43 UTC.

Vertical Azimuth Display

Verticle Azimuth Display wind profile. Image is from 22:48 UTC.