The most dangerous portion of a storm is the mesocyclone. If a tornado and large hail occur it will generally be near this portion of the storm. Thus, it is a good idea to use this portion of the storm as the central position of the storm when plotting the storm's movement. It is a good idea to remind that storms and severe thunderstorms often produce tornadoes even when no tornado warning is out yet. While radar can be used to determine the circulations associated with a tornado, the radar can not tell if the circulation is connected to the ground. Storm spotters are very helpful in determining whether the circulation is in contact with the ground. When plotting the movement of a storm focus on the cities in the path of the storm since the storm is likely already impacting those cities. Radar data is often several minutes old. When plotting the movement of a storm it will not always move in a straight line. Development within the storm and shear can cause the storm to take a curving and wobbling path. Adjust the anticipated path of the storm on each radar update. Be aware of new storms that develop and do not become overly fixated only on storms that have a warning out on them. Severe storms can develop in a matter of minutes. Geographic features, roads and landmarks make it easier for viewers to understand where a storm is located. Be careful about zooming in too close for too long on a storm when running the radar. Keep a close watch on all the viewing area. Also keep radar display simple enough so that viewers can understand what is going on. |