Tornadoes are one of natures most fearsome creations. Yet, despite of an average of 1,200 tornadoes each year they are still relatively rare.
However, when they occur they constitute a major hazard around the United States. You can help to increase warning lead time by recognizing and reporting clues associated with tornado development and the various stages of the tornado life cycle.
Studies indicate the RFD is key to tornado formation. But as in the case with nearly all aspect of meteorology, there are many variables involved in a supercell's complex circulations.
For the RFD, it can be either "dry" or "wet". The unstable air in a dry RFD also warms as it descends further adding to its instability. This unstable warm air is quickly ingested into the main updraft causing the rotation to intensify.
The clear slot and horseshoe shaped region produced by the RFD are easier to identify with dry RFD's. Wet RFD's contain rain and hail to varying degrees. This precipitation inhibits much of the warming from the forceful descent of air.
While wet RFD's are unfavorable for tornado development they can still occur. They can greatly hinder your visibility if you are located to the south of the clear slot/horseshoe as any tornado that may form will likely be on the north side.
Do not drive through a wet RFD in order to get a more favorable vantage point. Wet RFD's can contain high wind, blinding rain and very large hail. Also, if there is a tornado, you will likely not see it until its too late.
Doppler radar can often show a storm's rotation
Text Here
