Doppler Radar Observations of an Asymmetric Mesoscale Convective System and Associated Vortex Couplet

James D. Scott Department of Atmospheric Science, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado

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Steven A. Rutledge Department of Atmospheric Science, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado

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Abstract

A study of the 28 May 1985 “asymmetric” mesoscale convective system (MCS) observed during PRE-STORM is presented. Dual-Doppler analysis revealed a well-defined cyclonic mesovortex in the northern portion of the stratiform region, in accord with previous studies on this type of circulation. At maximum extent, the closed cyclonic circulation had a diameter of approximately 80 km and a depth of 7 km. A smaller anticyclonic circulation was present to the south of the cyclonic vortex. Counterrotating vortices in asymmetric MCSs have been identified in recent modeling studies; however, prior to this study, observational confirmation of the anticyclonic vortex has been elusive.

Abstract

A study of the 28 May 1985 “asymmetric” mesoscale convective system (MCS) observed during PRE-STORM is presented. Dual-Doppler analysis revealed a well-defined cyclonic mesovortex in the northern portion of the stratiform region, in accord with previous studies on this type of circulation. At maximum extent, the closed cyclonic circulation had a diameter of approximately 80 km and a depth of 7 km. A smaller anticyclonic circulation was present to the south of the cyclonic vortex. Counterrotating vortices in asymmetric MCSs have been identified in recent modeling studies; however, prior to this study, observational confirmation of the anticyclonic vortex has been elusive.

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