Since the WSR-88D mesocyclone algorithm does not search for meso-anticyclones, it is incumbent upon the forecaster to be alert to the possibility for these types of circulations. There were significant challenges to forecasters in real-time anticipation (or even appreciation) of the storm behavior in the Big Spring area. Also, a significant overhang was present in the updraft region on the northern flank of the storm.
Also, the north wind supplied good inflow to this northeastward moving storm and induced strong vertical shear through the lowest 6 km.Īn analysis of WSR-88D VR/Shear on the Big Spring storm showed that a deep, persistent anticyclonic rotation was detected for at least two hours. Stable conditions are often found north of a surface boundary, however, high time resolution weather data from the USDA Agricultural Research Station in Big Spring suggested that surface conditions were quite unstable. North winds north of the boundary and southeast winds south of the boundary enhanced storm-relative inflow in both areas. Supercell thunderstorms developed in both areas with strong mesocyclones in the San Angelo area and strong meso-anticyclones in the Big Spring area. Alternatively, a hodograph depicting conditions in the San Angelo area showed positive helicity and favored persistent mesocyclones. The hodograph, adjusted for conditions near Big Spring, showed negative storm-relative helicity and a sufficient vertical wind profile to maintain storms with a persistent meso-anticyclone. Low-level winds in the Big Spring area were northerly prior to the storm. The pairs to these splitting storms in each area quickly dissipated. Indeed, storms did split across the region with left-split storms surviving north of the boundary, while right-split storms survived south of the boundary. The evening sounding taken at Midland revealed a straight-line hodograph with sufficient shear, indicating splitting storms could be expected. Storms initiated both north and south of the surface trough.
This case study discusses the synoptic setting as well as characteristics of the storm as depicted on the Midland, Texas WSR-88D radar.Īn upper level shortwave trough was approaching the area, while at the surface a pre-frontal trough extended northeast to southwest between Big Spring and San Angelo, Texas. On the city of Big Spring, Texas was pummeled by a left-split supercell thunderstorm that produced tennis ball or greater size hail over half of this city of 25,000 people. Left-split supercell thunderstorms have been the subject of only a limited amount of research over the years. These times of year are the slowest with tourists.P10.1 An example of a left-split supercell producing 5-inch hail: The Big Spring, Texas Storm of (2000 - Sept2000_20sls) 20th Conference on Severe Local StormsĪn example of a left-split supercell producing 5-inch hail: The Big Spring, Texas Storm of On average, it rains or snows a smalll amount: consistently 1 times per month. Weather is too cold this time of year in Big Spring to be enjoyable for warm weather travelers. Tourism is fairly slow during these months due to the weather, so hotels may be lower priced. It rains or snows a normal amount: 1 to 2 days per month. Fall (September through November)įall daily highs range from 92.2☏ (33.4☌) and 64☏ (17.8☌), which will feel very nice given the humidity and wind. June – August is the busiest season for tourism in Big Spring, so lodging and other accommodations may cost more than usual. These months see the most precipitation with 1 to 3 days of precipitation per month. The middle-year months have very comfortable weather with high temperatures that are quite warm. Spring is the second busiest for tourism, which makes it a good time for those looking for things to do. Rain is rare with 1 to 3 days of significant precipitation per month. Highs range from 94.4☏ (34.7☌) and 70.1☏ (21.2☌) with warmer temperatures in the later months. Humidity and temperatures combine to make this season feel warm.
Overall Big Spring Travel Experience by Season Spring (March through May)
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