An uneventful month for most of the UK by comparison to last year whereby February 2001 had 3 Tornadoes and one waterspout.
FEBRUARY EVENTS: - Nothing to report.
A TORNADO ADVISORY was issued by Dr David Reynolds for Southern regions of the UK 27th February through to mid morning the following day 28th. Whilst no tornadoes have yet been reported, three large well defined cumulonimbus cells were monitored moving through the English Channel within the advisory period. These cells maintained their form for at least three hours as they crossed into N.France. TORRO member Robert Moore using his own satellite data reported several smaller cb's following along behind looking much like a trail of pure white dots. He also managed to record a minimum temperature of -45 deg at cloud tops.
COMMENTS There were several days of strong winds across the UK, with Scotland seeing the worst. Many regions suffered disruption and blackouts, with winds reportedly gusting to well over 90 mph. There was also some isolated thunderstorm activity through the month with a report of an intense thunderstorm in Rossendale on the 26th, courtesy of TORRO member Matt Hugo.
Nothing tornadic to mention to date.
There has been much discussion over the recent offer of radar subscription to a certain pilot briefing company. Radar, or lack of it has been a frustrating issue for many TORRO members. I hope all those members interested in gaining better radar imaging to at least consider these offers as and when they are available.
Another important issue I'd like to mention is regarding those considering storm chasing in the USA this year. Some valid points as to the danger of 'going it alone' have been stressed by members of staff. Please do take note of the advice. A professional tour is the BETTER and SAFER option. But ultimately the Mid West is free to all who choose to venture there. So the final decision comes down to the individual's choice. The most important thing you should take on such an adventure with or without a guide, is common sense, pure and simple!
Alas, not much to report for this newsletter. The beginning of March is already looking alot more interesting. Well here's hoping, anyway!
Best Wishes Tony Gilbert (Site Investigation Co-ordinator and Executive to The Tornado and Storm Research Organisation)