Article Type:
Research Article

The Three-Dimensional Axisymmetric Wind Field Structure of the Spencer, South Dakota, 1998 Tornado

Karen Kosiba Center for Severe Weather Research, Boulder, Colorado

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Joshua Wurman Center for Severe Weather Research, Boulder, Colorado

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Print Publication:
01 Sep 2010
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1175/2010JAS3416.1
Page(s):
3074–3083
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Abstract

The three-dimensional axisymmetric wind field structure of the violent Spencer, South Dakota, 1998 tornado was analyzed using the ground-based velocity track display (GBVTD) method. Data from a Doppler on Wheels mobile radar, collected at very close range to the tornado, were used to conduct the GBVTD calculations at a very fine (16 m) resolution. The analysis revealed a two-cell vortex with a very strong axial downdraft throughout the observation period, radial inflow jets preceding intensification and a decrease in inflow preceding weakening, swirl ratio values consistent with observed multiple vortex structure, and other features of the vortex.

Corresponding author address: Dr. Karen Ann Kosiba, Center for Severe Weather Research, 1945 Vassar Circle, Boulder, CO 80305. Email: kakosiba@cswr.org

Abstract

The three-dimensional axisymmetric wind field structure of the violent Spencer, South Dakota, 1998 tornado was analyzed using the ground-based velocity track display (GBVTD) method. Data from a Doppler on Wheels mobile radar, collected at very close range to the tornado, were used to conduct the GBVTD calculations at a very fine (16 m) resolution. The analysis revealed a two-cell vortex with a very strong axial downdraft throughout the observation period, radial inflow jets preceding intensification and a decrease in inflow preceding weakening, swirl ratio values consistent with observed multiple vortex structure, and other features of the vortex.

Corresponding author address: Dr. Karen Ann Kosiba, Center for Severe Weather Research, 1945 Vassar Circle, Boulder, CO 80305. Email: kakosiba@cswr.org

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