Further study of the severe storm with a rotating updraft configuration

A two-dimensional, non-entraining, axial-symmetric, steady-state model of a severe storm with a rotating updraft is presented. The input data of these particular model are formulated around the assumption that the horizontal wind field fits a Rankine vortex and that the updraft configuration has a warm core structure. This model represents the second in a series of three which are being produced at Saint Louis University. The other two carry the same basic modelling assumptions and differ only in the parameters chosen to specify the input data. The findings, presented in this paper, result from comparisons between the parameters calculated by the specific model under consideration and two other sources: 1) observational data, or deductions therefrom, as reported in the literature, and 2) computed values derived from whichever of the other models in the hierarchy that happens to rely most heavily on input data of the same type, as that most accurately observed for each given storm. The data bases for each storm are thus rendered more comprehensive by using augmented generated data of different mixes in accordance with the reliability of observed data.

Comparisons between these three sets of data are presented throughout the text and summarized in the conclusion section. Rationale underlying the assumptions of the model is presented. The strengths and weaknesses of the model are discussed.