Tuesday, April 3, 2012

Tractor Trailers Tossed by North Texas Tornado April 3, 2012

Special Forecast Discussion: April 3, 2012

Special Forecast Discussion valid April 3, 2012.

This special forecast discussion has been issued as the Storm Prediction Center has outlined a 10% risk of tornadoes, making this a high-end slight risk severe weather area today.

Tornadoes have already been confirmed today, with gut-wrenching video showing trailers being thrown about like paper airplanes.

This was not unexpected, but the magnitude was, in a few aspects. I anticipate the threat to increase as more rotation in the atmosphere is seen in northeast Texas as the storms also move east into this rotation.

A short-term Storm Action Day is now in effect.

-Andrew

Forecast Discussion- Today, April 3, 2012

Fronts and Precipitation
Today's Severe Weather Risk

Forecast Discussion for April 3, 2012

Hotspot of the Day: South Plains
A storm system will be moving eastward today, with a cold front combining with the dry line in east Texas to make for some thunderstorms. These thunderstorms should have a mainly tornado and hail threat, meaning that we could be looking at some strong supercell thunderstorms. This development is expected this afternoon.

Midwest
There is also a risk for severe weather in the Midwest today, as a warm front moves east northeast and brings up warm, humid air to get the atmosphere ready for severe storms. As the cold front comes through later tonight, people in that area can expect heavy rains and some large hail. Damaging winds and large hail are the main threats. This development is expected this afternoon.

Southeast
Some intermittent showers and storms are expected in the Southeast today as a high pressure is broken in the midst of a large area of warm, humid Gulf air. There is a low severe weather risk, with small hail and gusty winds being the main threats.

Northwest
A storm system with following cold front will be moving on shore, introducing rain to an already soaked Northwest. Severe weather is not expected. Snow is possible in the mountains.

North Plains, Southwest
High pressures will reside over these areas. Severe Weather and Winter weather are not expected in these areas.