Describe the difference in evolution between a supercell that develops in an environment with unidirectional wind shear and a supercell that develops in an environment with veering winds. What is causing this difference in evolution?
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In order to understand the difference in evolution between a supercell that develops in an environment with unidirectional wind shear and one that develops in an environment with veering winds, it is first necessary to define these terms.
Wind shear refers to the change in wind direction or speed with height. Unidirectional wind shear occurs when the wind maintains its direction but changes its speed as you ascend in the atmosphere. On the other hand, veering winds refer to a situation where the wind direction changes clockwise with height.
Now, let's examine the evolution of these two types of supercells.
1. Supercell development in an environment with unidirectional wind shear:
In this case, the wind is unidirectional, meaning it blows from the same direction throughout the storm. When a supercell forms in such an environment, the updraft and downdraft within the storm will be primarily separated, allowing for a sustained and organized structure. The storm will exhibit a classic supercell structure, with a rotating updraft known as a mesocyclone, a well-defined hook echo on radar, and the potential for severe weather such as tornadoes, large hail, or damaging winds.
2. Supercell development in an environment with veering winds:
When veering winds are present, the wind direction changes with height. As a result, the updraft and downdraft within the supercell can become tilted or sheared, with the downdraft displaced from the updraft. This leads to a less organized structure and a weaker connection between the updraft and the rotating mesocyclone. Consequently, such supercells are typically less intense and have a lower tornado potential compared to those developing in unidirectional wind shear environments.
The difference in evolution between these two types of supercells is primarily caused by the vertical tilting of the updraft and the resulting separation of the updraft and downdraft in supercells developing in an environment with veering winds. This tilting hampers the transfer of warm, moist air into the storm's core, limiting its ability to strengthen and organize. In contrast, in an environment with unidirectional wind shear, the updraft and downdraft are not as disrupted, allowing for a more potent and organized supercell.
To determine the evolution of supercells in different atmospheric conditions, meteorologists analyze various weather charts, satellite imagery, and radar data, particularly vertical wind profiles. These data help identify the wind shear characteristics, which assist in predicting the type and intensity of supercell development.