A Study of the Tornadic Region within a Supercell Thunderstorm

Abstract

The transition of a supercell thunderstorm into its tornadic phase is investigated through high-resolution numerical cloud model simulations initiated within the interior portion of a previously simulated mature supercell storm. With the enhanced grid resolution, the low-level cyclonic vorticity increases dramatically, and the gust front rapidly occludes as small-scale downdrafts develop in the vicinity of the low-level center of circulation. As the occlusion progresses, a ring of high-vorticity air surrounds the circulation center and could be conducive to multiple vortex tornado formation. Numerous features of the simulated transition bear resemblance to those observed in tornadic storms. In the model simulation, the large low-level vorticity is generated through the tilting and intense stretching of air from the inflow side of the storm. This vertical vorticity is derived from the horizontal vorticity of the environmental shear and also from horizontal vorticity generated solenoidally as low-level air approaches the storm along the forward flank cold outflow boundary. Intensification of the rear flank downdraft during the occluding phase is dynamically driven by the strong low-level circulation.