This module discusses the role of wind shear in the structure and evolution of convective storms. Using the concept of horizontal vorticity, the module demonstrates how shear enhances uplift, leading to longer-lived supercell and multicell storms. The module also explores the role of shear in the development of mesoscale convective systems, including bow echoes and squall lines. Most of the material in this module previously appeared in the COMET modules developed with Dr. Morris Weisman. This version includes a concise summary for quick reference and a final exam to test your knowledge. The module comes with audio narration, rich graphics, and a companion print version.
By the end of this module you will be able to describe the influence that vertical wind shear has on convective storm behavior
Enabling Objectives
By the end of this module you will be able to do the following:
Describe how and where interaction between a thunderstorm outflow (the cold pool) and the environmental wind shear lead to enhanced uplift and formation of new convective cells
Describe the vertical wind shear conditions that maximize the uplift along the downshear edge of the cold pool
Describe the origin of updraft tilt in a convective cell
Describe the different vertical shear characteristics for supercell storms and mesoscale convective systems (MCSs)
wind shear, convection, thunderstorm, cold pool, vorticity, updraft tilt, supercell, MCS, mesoscale convective system, bow echo, squall line
March 10, 2016: HTML framework updated to latest cross-browser compatibility standards.
December 1, 2013: HTML and media assets in this lesson have been updated for current browsers and mobile devices.
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