Denver's Near-Miss Tornado of 1975

Abstract

The largest tornado ever reported in the Denver area occurred northeast of the metropolitan area on the afternoon of 18 May 1975. Its position was on the left forward quadrant of the associated thunderstorm cell and the tornado had a very slow forward speed of motion. The associated thunderstorm cell intensity yielded a maximum radar reflectivity of only 104.5 mm6m?3. The tornado dissipated in a unique fashion. The circulation stopped, leaving the dust and vapor cloud suspended in the air before slowly settling and diffusing. Pictures of the much photographed vortex are included which show the life cycle of growth and dissipation.