A Tornado-Producing Cloud Pattern Seen from Tiros I1

Abstract

A small, bright, isolated cloud mass was observed by TIROS I over the Central Plains near an area of known tornado activity. The rectification of the TIROS picture is shown; the meteorological situation is presented; and a comparison of the picture content is made with the synoptic events. Evidence is presented indicating that (1) the first intense convective activity was associated with the isolated cloud mass in the picture, (2) the cloud mass was located in an area possessing characteristics found in tornado development situations, and (3) the cloud mass later expanded and spread northeastward spawning hail and tornadoes in central Oklahoma. Several other significant features were seen in the satellite picture; included among these was a prominent boundary separating a very dark area from a somewhat brighter area. This boundary corresponded to a dewpoint “front” or strong moisture gradient separating very dry air from moister air.