Multiple Vortex Features in the Tornado Cyclone and the Occurrence of Tornado Families

Single- and Dual-Doppler Analysis of a Tornadic Vortex and Surrounding Storm-Scale Flow in the Crowell, Texas, Supercell of 30 April 2000

“…The presence of concentric submesocyclone scales of rotation for certain periods of time in this and some other DOW-observed storms (e.g., Wurman and Alexander 2004) argues for further study of the interaction between these scales as well as a consistent taxonomy of tornado/tornado-cyclone vortices based on dynamical criteria [e.g., momentum profiles in Rasmussen and Straka (2007)] rather than only spatial scales (Agee et al 1976). To solidify our understanding of the dynamics governing the coexistence of these concentric vortices, more high-resolution radar data and numerical simula- tions resolving spatial scales equal to a few hundred meters must be analyzed.…”

The Structure of Polygonal Eye of a Typhoon

“…The observations suggest that the phenomenon occurs near the boundary between the clear area (downdraft) in the eye and the eyewall (updraft) where the largest horizontal azimuthal wind shear exists. Though the scale of phenomenon is different from that of the polygonal formation, multiple vortex phenomena in tornado meso-cyclone (Fujita et al, 1972;Agee et al, 1976) are similar to that of polygonal eye structure. Agee et al (1976) pointed out that there must have been multiple tornadoes rotating around each other in a parent meso-system to produce the actual damage track of tornadoes.…”

“…Though the scale of phenomenon is different from that of the polygonal formation, multiple vortex phenomena in tornado meso-cyclone (Fujita et al, 1972;Agee et al, 1976) are similar to that of polygonal eye structure. Agee et al (1976) pointed out that there must have been multiple tornadoes rotating around each other in a parent meso-system to produce the actual damage track of tornadoes. In the Snow (1978)'s paper, actual tornado with subsidiary vortices embedded within the parent circulation are depicted photographically.…”

A Laboratory Investigation of the Structure of Multiple Vortices

“…Agee et al (1976) concluded from the damage tracks of tornadoes in Indiana and neighboring states on 3 April 1974, that there must have been multiple tornadoes rotating around each other in a parent meso-system.…”