This section is for storm chases done in the central / Midwestern United States during the year of 2020. This includes all storm chasing activities (including any major chase "expeditions") during the year of 2020 in the central USA (aka "Tornado Alley"). For 2020, all chases in the central USA will be logged in this section, with many of the chases being possible "spot" chases / major severe weather "setups" chased. Here you should find many pictures of lightning, tornadoes, hail, strong winds, along with many severe thunderstorm elements. Keep in mind that this chase log is scientific evidence and portrays my on-going storm chasing research. It has been placed on this page for easy reference and meteorological interests. Please do not plagiarize or copy this document to other sites for distribution.

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STORM CHASING - CENTRAL UNITED STATES - 2020 CHASE LOG

This section is for storm chasing, mainly in the central USA, in 2020 as well as any other chases. In the image above, a powerful HP supercell looms over the horizon southwest of Lakin and Garden City, Kansas during the evening of May 21, 2020. This storm already is producing a tornado as this picture was taken, with it barely visible in the murk to the lower-right side of the picture. My Jeep and John Moon's vehicle can be seen to the right. Although rare, supercell storms like this pose an inordinate risk to life and property, and are better off over rural / open farmland. These storms are also extremely hazardous to aviation, containing updrafts powerful enough to tear a commercial airliner apart.

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ABOUT THIS CHASE LOG FOR THE MIDWEST

This is a chase log for any chases during 2020 in the Midwest and Central United States that were conducted as "spot" chases as well as any dedicated chase trip. Each chase section within this area will have its own details and such for that particular chase. This area was set up in the spring of 2020 and is for any chase that was conducted in the US Plains and Midwest. Equipment use in such chases range from cell phone to HAM radio communications, digital / still cameras, video (SD) and high-definition (HD) camcorders, and data logging / GPS via laptop computer. Storm chasing involved driving in harsh conditions and / or for long periods of time.

All chases and observations are in chronological order and a chase number is assigned to each entry. Please bear in mind that all observations adhere to modern storm analysis standards and do not include all storms that occurred in a given area for a particular chase period.

Any kind of storm such as a thunderstorm, tornado, waterspout, tropical cyclone, and extratropical storm can be chased or observed. I have tried to keep this log of any storms that I have observed as accurate as possible, while using terms and expressions to abide by those used by most meteorologists and storm spotters today.

Storm chasing and observation can be extremely dangerous and may result in serious injury or death. I have received intermediate and advanced training for storm spotting in 1996. I strongly urge anyone who is to try their hand at storm spotting to get training before doing so. You must also have a good understanding of meteorology and storm dynamics. "If you don't know what you're doing, Don't do it!" Contact your local National Weather Service office for information on storm spotting and about training to become a Skywarn storm Spotter.

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Storm Chasing 2020 Spring / Summer Highlights Video

CHASE MAP FOR CHASE EXPEDITION 2020

The chase map above shows the chase areas and tracks for this chase expedition, from April 26 through June 24. The blue path is the driving / chase tracks. Keep in mind that this constitutes 22,721 miles of travel, and the same areas on the map have been crossed multiple times (such as on I-80 in the Midwest). The red "X"'s indicate major storm interceptions. The green paths are any flights taken before, during, or after the trip, and are rather strange due to Covid-19 (coronavirus pandemic) restrictions. The yellow circle was my current location (updated daily during the trip), but is set to south Florida after the completion of the chase trip.

CHASE TRIP CHRONOLOGY FOR CHASE EXPEDITION 2020

The start of the main storm chasing trip began on April 26, 2020, after the end of a busy week of storms in the central USA, including tornadoes. Theses storms were the week centered on April 22, and were not chased due to the restrictions on flights to Texas and Oklahoma due to the corona-virus crisis (COVID-19). With driving a better option than flights in and out (for spot-chasing) that would otherwise require lengthy quarantines and / or flight cancellations. The trip from California was made during the day on Sunday, April 26th, heading out of Garden Grove to Highway 91 and I-15, ultimately to I-40 east most of the day, spending the night in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

April 27 was a main and final travel day, reaching the US high plains later that afternoon, mainly from Albuquerque, NM to Amarillo, Texas. On the 27th of April, a highly marginal and conditional setup was in place in far SW Texas, with a very marginal chase opportunity late in the day, possibly as far north as Lubbock. A diversion from I-40 near Santa Rosa, New Mexico was made, headed southeast on Highway 84 towards Highway 60, then east through Clovis and into Texas near Farwell. The Storm Prediction Center (SPC) had the suspect area in a marginal, then slight risk, with wind and hail probabilities both at 5%, with hail later at 15%. Tornado probabilities were less than 2% all areas. Ultimately a mesoscale discussion (MCD 480) was issued for extreme SW Texas, with a severe thunderstorm watch after that, valid until 9 PM CDT. Storms did develop in that area, but were too far south, with a line of high based storms extending south of there across the Mexican border. I continued northeast on Highway 60 to I-27 near Canyon, arriving in Amarillo in the afternoon, and spending the night there.

April 28 was the first official chase day of this storm chasing trip. This would be a rather quick moving upper-air system, providing the support for severe thunderstorms, with a surging cold front across the Midwest. The objective was to target the area in NE Oklahoma, between Ponca City and north of Tulsa, where the early evolution of storms can be intercepted before rapid transition to a squall line. I left Amarillo early on the 28th after forecasting, and prepared the vehicle, a 2016 Jeep Wrangler, for the day. I headed east on I-40 to Oklahoma City, then I-44 to I-35 north, and reached Highway 60 east towards Ponca City by early afternoon. By the time I reached the Pawhuska and Bartlesville areas, storms began developing to the northwest. The SPC also had this area under a moderate risk, with wind and hail probabilities both 45%, and hatched (for significant). Tornado probabilities were 10% as well. MCD 484, and subsequent tornado watch box 150, valid until 11 PM CDT were also issued for the target region(s). Storms were first encountered in Kansas, near Peru, and the intersection of Highways 75 and 166. The storms were mainly severe clusters of storms, with some HP supercell structures. The storms were followed south to Tulsa along Highways 75, then SR 51 and 72 southward to Haskell, then Highway 64 / SR 72 south to Highway 256 west, penetrating the line of storms near Henryetta, and heading west on I-40 towards Oklahoma City. The day was wrapped up passing Oklahoma City by late evening, then taking I-35 south to Norman for the night.

The period from April 29 to May 1 was down-time with little chase prospects, and time was spent leisurely moving around various small towns and edges of any cities, while maintaining distancing due to the COVID-19 crisis. April 29 was spent in Plano, Texas, after heading down there via I-35 to I-635, then Highway 75. April 30 was spent heading west to Wichita Falls, Texas, via I-35 to Highways 380 and 287. May 1 was spent heading NW on Highway 287 to Amarillo, Texas. Upon looking at the shorter range outlooks, a possible marginal day existed in NE Colorado around May 2.

May 2 was a travel / marginal chase day, targeting an area to the east of Denver in northeastern Colorado. As per the Storm Prediction Center, three marginal risk areas were outlined, with one centered over NE Colorado. The hail and wind probabilities were both 5%, with nil tornado probabilities anywhere. MCD 512 was issued late in the day for the NE Colorado target, with no watch needed. I headed out of Amarillo via Highway 287, crossing the Oklahoma Panhandle, and into SE Colorado by mid afternoon. I pretty much continued via Highway 287 to I-70 near Limon, then SR 86 west toward Castle Rock. I reached the Denver area via I-25 north by late afternoon. On the east side of town, I checked into a hotel there, anticipating storms to develop in the evening / dusk. Some strong storms did develop, with a small supercell storm observed from a distance southeast of the area after dark with frequent lightning.

May 3 was another marginal chase day in northeastern Colorado. The conditions were similar to the day before, with limited moisture, and a marginal area issued by SPC for NE Colorado, stretching northward into Wyoming and Nebraska, and as far as Montana. The hail and wind probabilities were both 5% (tornado probabilities in this area were less than 2%). Another marginal area was also issued for Texas, and a slight risk (later upgraded to enhanced) near the MO bootheel / southern OH valley states, mainly for wind, and was not applicable for this chase days objectives. I finished some errands and headed east on I-70 to Limon, watching small storms initiate over the Palmer Divide to the west near Cedar Point. These storms were followed to the northeast as far as Wray, Colorado, where one became severe. The SPC also issued MCD 521 for this area, but no watch was needed. The chase pretty much went up Highway 71 out of Limon, then 36 east out of Last Chance to Anton, then north on SR 63 to Akron. From there, I headed east on Highway 34 to Wray, wrapping up the chase of the storm complex there. Two other small supercells were also noted to the northeast visually, but these were not intercepted. I continued into Nebraska east on 34, then south on SR 161 to Highway 36 east out of Bird City, then south on SR 25 out of Atwood to Colby, Kansas. From there I headed east on I-70, spending the night in Hays.

May 4 was another day for potential tornadoes that simply could not happen, plagued by upper air issues and surging outflow / cold fronts. I started the day in Hays, and headed east on I-70 to Salina, taking I-135 south to Wichita out of there. The target area was in northeastern Oklahoma, similar to the April 28 target, north of Tulsa, and southeast of Coffeyville, Kansas. As of 1630z, the SPC had this area outlooked in an enhanced-risk, with a 15% wind, 10% tornado, and 30% hail probability (the tornado and hail were hatched for significant). Out of Wichita, I headed down Highway 81, then east and southeast via SR 55 to Highways 77 and 166 east towards Coffeyville. From there I headed south on Highway 169 to Nowata, where storms initiated in that area, matching perfectly to the forecast target. Two supercells developed, one heading northeast towards Chetopa and weakening, and another forming west of Foyil. MCD 531 and subsequent tornado watch box 163 was also issued for the area, valid until 10 PM CDT. The chase continued east out of Foyil near Highway 66 along SR 28 to near Adair, then south on Highway 69 to Pryor. The storm reached maximum intensity in this area, and the chase track continued east on SR 20 to Salina, then south on SR 82 to Highway 412 east. The chase was wrapped up in Kansas, Oklahoma and I headed east to Siloam Springs, AR to head north out of there via SR 59, eventually connecting with Highway 71 north to Joplin, MO. From there I headed northeast on I-44, spending the night in Springfield, MO.

The period from May 5 to 6 was pretty much down and travel time. During this time, on May 5, I headed from Springfield back into Kansas via Highway 160 out of Joplin, MO, since storms were expected again in a couple of days, on May 7. I headed west on Highways 166 and 160 to Winfield, then north on Highway 81 into Wichita, spending the night there. On May 6, I headed down Highway 81 and I-35 past Oklahoma city via I-44. I stopped at the Samaras memorial off I-40 in El Reno, then south on Highway 81 to SR 7, heading west from there into Lawton for the night. This would be close to the expected target on May 7 the following day.

May 7 was a pretty good chase day, with hail and storm structure the main objective. By 20z, the SPC had two enhanced-risk areas on their outlook, with an addendum adding a risk area for the SE Texas panhandle, which was also the target area. Hail and wind probabilities were 30% and significant, with a 2% tornado probability to the SW, and 5% over a less-favorable area to the NE over Oklahoma. I left Lawton via I-44 and Highway 277 to the south to Highway 70 west, then south into Texas on Highway 183 to Oklaunion. The target was near and just west of Childress, via 287 west and northwest. The SPC also issued MCD 547, and subsequent severe thunderstorm watch box 170, valid until 10 PM CDT by late afternoon. Storms initiated along the dryline bulge and quickly became severe after 5 PM, and a long-track supercell storm (right-split) was followed from west of Childress, back to Vernon along Highways 287 to 183, and south from there to near Seymour. The storm produced destructive hail, damaging the hood of the chase vehicle. No windows were lost due to hail guards that were installed for the day. I continued south to near Mabelle, then SR 144 ESE out of there to Olney, while continuing with the HP supercell along that route, as it moved SE. From there I took SR 251 south to Highway 380, and continued east on that highway until Denton, where I spent the night.

The period from May 8 to May 12 was pretty much down-time, with a ridge of high-pressure affecting the western USA. I spent some of this time in the Chicago area (western suburbs). I left Denton on May 8, via I-35 north to Highway 50 in Kansas, and east to Emporia, taking I-35 north and east to Kansas City, spending the night there off I-635 and I-29. On May 9, I left Kansas City via I-29 north to Highway 36 by Saint Joseph, MO. I headed east on Highway 36, and north into Iowa on I-35, around Des Moines, then east on I-80 across the Mississippi River into Illinois. Taking I-88 and Highway 30 east, I arrived in Wheaton, IL by evening, spending a few days there. By May 13 on-wards, the pattern was forecasted to become somewhat active again, so I headed back out from the Chicago area on May 12 via the same routes (Highway 30 to I-88 / I-80 to I-35 and Highway 50 / I-135) back to Wichita, Kansas later that evening.

May 13 was another promising day in outlooks leading up to the day, with only a low-end enhanced risk in the eastern Texas panhandle being realized. I left Wichita during the morning via Highway 400 / 54 west to Greensburg, having lunch there and heading south on Highway 183 into Oklahoma, then west on 64 to 283 south. The SPC had the area forecasted in an enhanced-risk outlook as of 13z, with a 5% tornado, 30% wind, and 15% hail (hatched for significant) in their probabilities. By 1630z, the hail was increased to 30%, and the tornado reduced to 2%. I headed west and southwest on Highway 60 into Texas, stopping in Canadian, and meeting a few storm chasers there, including Marcos Diaz and his group. A small LP supercell was observed north of Canadian, which weakened near Lipscomb. The SPC also had mesoscale discussion 575, and subsequent severe thunderstorm watch 179, valid until 10 PM CDT. The path then headed south on Highway 60 to Wheeler, then east into Oklahoma along Highway 52 towards Elk City. Two more small supercells were observed in that area before storms became linear in nature. The chase was wrapped up, via SR 44 to I-40, then east through Oklahoma City via I-44 to I-35, and north on I-35 / Highway 81 to spend the night in Wellington, Kansas.

May 14 was a chase day targeting the area in eastern Kansas, pretty much from near Emporia to Topeka. This area was on the southwestern side of a large slight-risk area (from the Great Lakes to central Kansas) as per SPC on their 13z outlook. The probabilities were a 5% tornado, 15% wind, and 15% hail. I left Wellington via Highway 81 / I-135 northward through Wichita, taking SR 254 / Highway 54 east to near Eureka, then SR 99 north into Emporia. Storms were expected to develop around that area, and northward, in a region of confluence. The SPC issued MCD 584 and severe thunderstorm watch box 182 after that, valid until 12 AM CDT the next day. Storms (eventually two supercells) developed by late afternoon in Lyon and Morris counties, with the chase track pretty much near SR 99 and Highway 56 from Dunlop to Admire. Chasing was wrapped up heading west on Highway 54 to Highway 77 near Henington. More storms were noted west of that area during the evening. I continued south on 77, meeting Highway 50 near Florence, then SW to I-135. I spent the night on the west side of Wichita.

May 15 was a chase day targeting a slight-risk area in northeastern Colorado for more discrete storms, owed to up-slope wind flow near the Palmer Divide. By 13z, the SPC had three outlook areas over the USA, one in the NE USA (of no interest in this case), one over Texas and Oklahoma, and another over NE Colorado. The latter was a slight risk, with a 2% tornado, and hail and wind both 15% for the probabilities. The area in Texas was an enhanced-risk, but mainly for significant wind and hail (30%), and with a tornado probability of 2%. The area in the northeast USA had a tornado probability of 5%. I forecasted and opted for the NE Colorado target area, knowing storms there would have the highest chance of being discrete supercells, and not plagued by messy outflow as in Texas and Oklahoma. Upper level support was much better for storms in the NE Colorado target as well. I left Wichita via Highway 54 / 400 west, and continued on 400 into Colorado, meeting Highway 287 in Lamar. I went north on 287 to Limon, then northwest out of there on I-70 to Deer Trail. Weak storms fired in that area, as the SPC issued MCD 601. No watch was issued due to sparse / isolated storm coverage expected. A promising storm developed over El Paso County, near the Palmer Divide, and that became a beautiful isolated supercell storm. The chase turned south on I-70 to SR 86, then south to Matheson and west on Highway 24. The storm was observed near Calhan, and followed east and southeast near SR 94 through Rush. The chase was wrapped up near Hugo, and I took 71 north of there back to Limon. From Limon, I took I-70 east, spending the night in Colby, Kansas.

On May 16, I decided not to chase as there was a marginal risk of storms near the tri-state area of Iowa, Nebraska, and Missouri. With traveling in that direction anyway, I took the route from Kansas via Highway 83 to SR 89 into Nebraska, meeting Highway 283 north, and finally east on I-80. I continued through Omaha and into Iowa on I-80, with weak convection noted in that area. The marginal area had an attendant tornado risk of only 2%. A small supercell storm did develop late in the day to the southeast of Omaha, and was tornado warned, but weakened quickly and was not intercepted. Mesoscale discussion 618 was also issued, but no watch box was needed. I continued on I-80 to the east, stopping in Iowa City for the night.

May 17 was also a chase and travel day, with storms intercepted in east-central to northeastern Illinois, and marked the start of more down-time in the Chicago area. I left Iowa City via I-80 east, back across the Mississippi River into Illinois, and into the southern part of Chicago near Joliet. The SPC had a slight-risk area in place, with a tornado probability of 5%, 15% wind, and less than 2% hail for eastern Illinois. The target area was the northern portion of this area, but cloud cover and extensive rain stabilized the atmosphere the farther north you went. MCD 620 was issued, and a severe thunderstorm watch for the southern end of the area south of I-74, valid until 10 PM CDT. No tornado watch was issued to the north of I-74 because of the stabilization of air near the warm front. I got off I-80 and took Highway 45 / I-57 south towards Gilman, IL. Heading out of there on Highway 24, storms were encountered in a large, messy line of convection near Forrest and SR 47. After finishing chasing, I headed to SR 115 south to SR 9, and finally back north on SR 47. Severe flooding was observed. I continued north on SR 47 to SR 71 / Highway 34 back into Dupage County, and spent the night in Wheaton, Illinois. Wheaton would be a "base" to spend any "down-time" this year.

The short stretch of down time was to end with some storm chasing prospects returning on May 21, with May 20 being a travel day back out to Tornado Alley, anticipating severe weather in southwest Kansas on May 21. I left the Chicago area via Highway 30 / I-88 / I-80 the usual way, across Iowa and I-35 south through Kansas City. The night on May 20 was spent in Wichita, Kansas. Chase prospects on May 20 were marginal at best, with a distant possibility in the Montana / Wyoming area that wound up not being worth the trip out there.

May 21 was a pretty good chase day, with at least three impressive supercell storms intercepted in southwest Kansas. The target area would be in southwest Kansas, starting near Liberal, and working northward from there, with a triple point front-dryline setup. The SPC had this region in a slight-risk, with a 15% hail and wind probability (hail was hatched for significant), and a small 5% tornado outlook area, pretty much centered over SW Kansas. I left Wichita via Highway 54 / 400, and finally 54 into Liberal by afternoon, securing a hotel room there since it was difficult to find rooms (many storm chasers stayed in Liberal). I met up with chaser John Moon and his chase partner, caravanning with him on and off during the day. The SPC issued MCD 657, and subsequent severe thunderstorm watch box 198, valid until 10 PM CDT for much of the target area. The chase continued north and west, via Highways 83 and 160, and SR 51 past Ulysses, and near Highway 50 and SR 27 near Syracuse. A storm complex / supercell was encountered west of Syracuse, then another east near Lakin off SR 25. The latter one had incredible structure. A final and beautiful supercell was encountered farther south near Satanta / Sublette off Highways 83 and 56. I wrapped up the chase by taking Highway 83 back south to Liberal, spending the night there.

May 22 was a pretty good chase day in north-central Texas, with a complex forecast and target area anywhere from Wichita Falls to Vernon, Texas. The SPC had the area in an enhanced-risk outlook, with a 5% tornado, 15% wind, and 30% hail (significant) in their probabilities, the latter being important for this day. Another marginal area was also in place for NE Kansas / SE Nebraska, but the main area targeted was in North-central Texas near the Red River. I left Liberal via Highway 83 south to 412 east into Oklahoma, then 183 south to near I-40. I was highly torn between the target area in Kansas and the original target area, and maintained discipline to stick with the original. I headed east on I-40, then south on Highway 81 to SR 152 back west to Anadarko, taking Highways 281 and 62 south and west to Highway 183, entering Texas and into the target area near Oklaunion. Convective initiation occurred in that area, while SPC issued MCD 668 and subsequent severe thunderstorm watch box 203, valid until 8 PM CDT. Storms developed and quickly became severe, and even tornadic, as the chase path continued eastwards, with a deviation around construction via Highway 183, SR 5, and US 277. A tornadic supercell developed, containing extreme, record-breaking hail. This storm was chased south on I-44 / Highway 277 west of Sheppard AFB near Burkburnett, and east and southeast to near Petrolia near SR 79. Some brief tornadoes and large hail was observed, with the main storm core producing hail at least 5 inches in diameter! The chase was wrapped up via SR 79 north and east, to Highway 70, then 81 north to I-40. I took I-40 east to I-44 around Oklahoma city to I-35, and pushed all the way to Wichita, Kansas for the night, anticipating to distant target areas on May 23.

May 23 was a complicated, and extremely frustrating, long-range chase day that wound up with two weak tornadoes observed in northern Illinois and into SW Wisconsin. A highly complex chase scenario presented itself, with two possible target areas - One in SW Nebraska, and the other in northern Illinois - Both long range chases. The two negatives were a strong cap with the Nebraska target area, and early storm development with the eastern one. I left Wichita, with the intent to chase the IL target area, waking up at 5 AM, barely getting 3 hours of sleep from the night before. I headed out via I-135 north to Highway 50 east, hooking up with I-35 towards Kansas City. It was here I made a mistake that would cost me most of the days efforts. Looking at the SW Nebraska target, I detoured up Highway 75 to Topeka, and began heading west on I-70. Upon looking at more data, and with the 13z SPC outlooks, I decided to turn around, and commit to the Illinois target area. The SPC had an enhanced-risk for much of NE Iowa and northern Illinois, with a 15% hail, 10% tornado, and only 5% wind in their probabilities. I back-tracked west to Kansas City, having already lost at least an hour on the time I thought I had by leaving Wichita early. Even worse, I had to pay to use the toll road between Topeka and Kansas City, and once clear of KC, I was cursed to a long delay getting fuel north of town, with traffic and long stoplights since the fuel stop was not near the interstate. I continued out of KC on I-29 / I-35 into Iowa, passing Des Moines by 12 PM, and finally headed east on I-80. Another storm chaser, Brian Stertz, was willing to chase with me, but was about an hour ahead of me after these delays. Just after noon, the SPC placed the target area in MCD 680, and subsequent tornado watch box 207, valid until 8 PM CDT. To my horror, tornadic supercells began developing far earlier than expected, making getting to the target area before convective initiation impossible. Even worse, Brian Stertz posted a large tornado near Iowa City, as I was helplessly still and hour west of there, heading east on I-80 at 80+ MPH. With tornadoes already confirmed before 1 PM, I continued east on I-80 and into Illinois by early afternoon, taking I-88 northeast to near Rock Falls, and SR 40 out of there. A tornadic supercell was tracked from near Pecatonia and Highway 20, and northeastward to near Beloit, Wisconsin near SR 76 and SR 251. As a "consolation", least two weak tornadoes were encountered with this first storm. The chase continued near Clinton, then back south along SR 76 to Highway 20 through Merengo for another tornado warned storm. I wrapped up the chase and headed east to SR 47, taking that south back to Highway 20, and south from there, spending the night in Wheaton. Today was a hard lesson about making poor navigation decisions early on before verifying a valid forecast.

May 24 was a marginal chase day targeting the area from extreme southwestern Iowa and northwest Missouri. This area was on the northern extent of a very large slight-risk area, that extended from near S Minnesota, southwestward to Colorado, and south to the US / Mexico border in Texas. Within this slight-risk was a wind and hail probability of 15%. The hail area was hatched for significant, with the northern extend into SW Iowa. A 2% tornado probability was also issued and my target was chosen because an outflow boundary from morning convection over Iowa and an approaching MCV (mesoscale convective vortex) moving over Kansas and into the target area. I left the Chicago area via Highway 30 / I-88 / I-80 west into Iowa, and south on I-35 past Des Moines and into Missouri near Bethany. Storms were observed in this area, from I-35 east along SR 6 and B, and finally Highway 65. The SPC also had MCD 704, followed by severe thunderstorm watch 217, valid until 8 PM CDT for the target area. Storms were outflow dominant, and I wrapped up chasing via Highway 65 north into Altona, east of Des Moines, and spent the night there.

May 25 was a highly conditional chase day, with the northern end of a marginal risk being targeted in central and eastern Iowa. This was at the northern extent of a marginal risk area as per the 1630z SPC outlook, with a 2% tornado probability. Wind and hail probabilities were also 5%, with the hail probability detached from the wind and tornado outlook areas. Farther south, into far south Texas, hail probabilities were significant at 15%, with a 5% tornado probability, near the Mexican order. The latter was of no interest to today's chasing objectives. I left Des Moines via I-80 east to near Grinnel by mid afternoon, watching an isolated cell go up near Marshalltown. This cell was investigated via Highways 6 and 63 north into Tama County. The storm weakened near Gladbrook so I doubled back down SR 21, eventually meeting Highway 30 eastward through Cedar Rapids. Another thunderstorm and funnel was observed east of there near Lisbon. The SPC only had MCD 725 up south of this area, and no watches were issued. I continued east on Highway 30, through Rock Falls, and all the way back into Wheaton in the western Chicago suburbs for the night. I assumed the following day would be an off day, with only a marginal outlook in Wisconsin.

May 26 was supposed to be an off day from chasing, until I woke up and looked at the SPC outlook issued at 13z. A slight risk was in place for Iowa and Minnesota, with all hazards (tornado, wind, and hail) at 5% probability. The 5% tornado was for much of Iowa and southern Minnesota. Quickly I was ready and heading west out of the Chicago suburbs via the I-88 tollway, since time was of the essence. I reached Des Moines by early afternoon via I-80 west, and forecasted a final target while en-route. The best area for tornadoes would be near and west of the I-35 corridor, from northwest of Des Moines, and as far north as the Minnesota / Iowa border. The SPC placed the area in MCD 735, followed by tornado watch box 229, valid until 8 PM CDT. Once heading north of Des Moines via Highway 69, and west near Polk and Minburn, a tornadic cell was noted crossing Saylorville Lake, with a tornado observed to the northwest from SR 141. I headed north on Highway 169, observing another tornado west of there near Ogden. The chase track continued up Highway 16, with a third possible tornado encountered near SR 3 farther north near Goldfield. The chase was wrapped up by heading back down Highway 169 / I-35 to Highway 20. I headed east on Highway 20, through Waterloo, then southeast via I-380 to Iowa City, then east on I-80. I took I-88 (including the toll road) all the way to the western Chicago suburbs, spending the night there, and finally starting some down-time, which would last until around June 1.

The period from May 27 to June 1 was down time due to slow activity with an upper ridge dominating the American West. This time was spent mainly in the western Chicago suburbs. Activity increased again by June 2, and a chase was done in SW Minnesota that day. I left the Chicago suburbs early on June 2, via Highway 30 / I-88 west to I-80 and back into Iowa. I took I-380 to Waterloo, then Highway 20 to I-35 north, reaching Albert Lea, Minnesota just before noon. There was a large enhanced-risk area issued by the SPC, extending from SE South Dakota and SW Minnesota, and eastward into southern Wisconsin. The tornado probabilities were 5% on the 13z, lowered to 2% as of 20z, with the wind and hail probabilities both 30% (hatched for significant). I went north on I-35 to Highway 14 west to Mankato, which was the "target area", waiting there much of the early to mid afternoon. Small cumulus began developing west of Mankato, and quickly developed into storms by about 4 PM, with explosive development thereafter as the cap was breached. MCD 783 was also issued by the SPC, and subsequent severe thunderstorm watch box 229, valid until 12 AM CDT the next day over the target area. The storms were followed from southwest of Mankato, via Highway 169, then south to SR 30. The chase headed east towards I-35 near Geneva and Ellendale. Hail, gustnadoes, and very strong winds were encountered with these storms. The chase was wrapped up by heading south on I-35, with the night spent in the western part of Des Moines, Iowa near Clive and I-80.

June 3 was a low-end slight-risk chase day, with a trip to the Nebraska sand-hills for some severe storms during the mid to late afternoon. The SPC had a large slight-risk area, extending from Colorado to the eastern seaboard near New York, with a small enhanced-risk there. The tornado probabilities in the target area, which was north-central Nebraska between North Platte and Valentine, were only 2%, with wind and hail both 15%, the latter hatched for significant. The area of interest was influenced by a recovered air mass and approaching upper trough, with the main objective being hail and storm structure. I headed out of Des Moines via I-80 west into Nebraska, through Omaha and Lincoln, and pretty much all the way to Gothenburg, Nebraska. I took SR 40 north to Arnold, and SR 92 to Highway 83. From there I headed north on Highway 83 to near Kennedy and Brownlee in Cherry County. Storms were intercepted in that area. The SPC issued MCD 795 north of the area and subsequent severe thunderstorm watch box 243. valid until 7 PM MDT (8 PM CDT). After wrapping up chasing by late afternoon, I headed back down Highway 83 into North Platte, spending the night there.

June 4 was a chase day in west-central South Dakota, with the SPC initially issuing a slight-risk area, and upgrading to enhanced across a path from western SD across the state extending SE into north-central Nebraska. In this area, tornado probabilities were 2% to 5%, with wind 15%, and hail 30% (hatched for significant). I headed out of North Platte via Highway 83 to SR 2 near Thedford, and west to Hyannis to take SR 61 north into South Dakota, mainly avoiding long construction delays on Highway 83. I arrived in Kadoka, SD by mid afternoon taking SR 44 and SR 73 to I-90. I did a quick assessment there, had lunch, and chatted with chaser Tony Mesias. It appeared the refined target area can be anywhere from NE of Rapid City to Faith. The SPC, also confused on storm initiation points, placed the area in MCD 817, pretty much over the enhanced-risk area as per 1630z. Severe thunderstorm watch 252 was then issued for this area, valid until 10 PM MDT. A powerful supercell formed over far NW South Dakota, and wound up tracking SE for many hours, passing the Cheyenne Indian Reservation and near I-90. I left Kadoka, heading west on I-90 to MC CR-21, going north on there to SR 34. The storm was encountered near Faith, but was outflow dominant. Roads were packed dirt, CR MC-26 and CR MC-32, and finally paved SR 73 and SR 34 south past the Cheyenne Reservation. The chase track continued on SR 34 to Highway 18, then south on SR 63 to I-90 west again. I continued west on I-90 to Rapid City for the night. Another supercell was noted near Wall, that same one that left a hail swath across eastern portions of Rapid City.

June 5 was taken as an off day, with no storms expected, and was spent in Rapid City, South Dakota. This day included a visit to Mount Rushmore. A supercell storm did develop to the south near Lusk, Wyoming, but was not intercepted. The following day, June 6, was a chase day farther northwest into west-central SD. This area was in an enhanced-risk as per the SPC, with a 5% tornado probability. Hail and wind probabilities were both significant at 30% (hatched). I left Rapid City via I-90 north and west to SR 79 near Sturgis, taking that north to near Newell and Highway 212. I waited in this general area for storms to develop, but the atmosphere remained stoutly capped. Instead, a derecho / powerful MCS wind strong winds pushed out of Wyoming and over much of SD and adjacent states by late evening. The SPC also had this area in MCD 856, and subsequent severe thunderstorm watch 264, valid until 1 AM MDT. When chasing was underway, the track stayed ahead of the leading edge of the derecho, via Highway 212 east to SR 73 near Faith, then north on there to Highway 12. A portion of the storm was penetrated south of Highway 12 on SR 73, and winds over 70 MPH were encountered. The path continued east on Highway 12 to SR 49, north into North Dakota, and eventually I-94. The night was spent in Bismark, North Dakota.

June 7 appeared to be a seemingly successful chase day but wound up being full of frustrations, targeting the area in northeastern North Dakota and northwestern Minnesota. The SPC had an enhanced risk as per their 1630z outlook, with both wind and hail probabilities at 30%, and hatched for significant. A 10% tornado outlook (also hatched) was in place over the NW Minnesota / NE North Dakota area, with a 5% extending southwestward into south-central South Dakota. So basically there were two target areas: Central South Dakota, and northeastern North Dakota. I chose the latter one, which wound up not being the better of the two. I left Bismarck and headed east on I-94, reaching Fargo by early afternoon, and took I-29 north out of there, then east to Highway 75 in Minnesota (across the Red River North via CR 20 to Moorehead). I traveled north on Highway 75, then north and east via SR 200 and CR 14 to near Crookstown. North of there was where some storms were encountered, from near Highways 75, 69, and SR 20 and as far north as Lake Bronson. The SPC had this area in part of MCD 869. Tornado watch box 267 was issued afterwards, valid until 10 PM CDT. The strong tornado potential in the northern target area did not verify, with small, fast moving supercells instead near the warm front, which trained and became elevated. Some brief tornadoes developed in the second target area in South Dakota 5% outlook area that I chose not to chase. I wrapped up the chase via SR 20 west to SR 220, then west to I-29 back into North Dakota by Oslo. I headed down I-29, through a severe MCS, reaching Fargo by late evening, and spending the night there.

June 8 was a long chase day with a trip from eastern North Dakota to central Nebraska. There were two areas of interest, one near the previous days target in NW Minnesota / NE North Dakota, and another centered over north-central Nebraska. These were along an enhanced-risk outlook area, where hail and wind probabilities were 30% (with the hail hatched for significant). Tornado probabilities were in two 5% areas, with one over my Nebraska target area. I headed out of Fargo early via I-29 south, and took I-90 west out of Sioux Falls, South Dakota to Highway 81. I took 81 south to Yanktown, into Nebraska, and SR 12 west to Highway 281 south to Highway 20, then west towards Bassett. I met up with some other chasers, including Greg Ansel, south of Bassett on Highway 183. The SPC issued MCD 882 for the area, and eventually severe thunderstorm watch box 272, valid until 2 AM CDT the next day. I caravanned a bit with Greg Ansel and his group, heading south to Taylor, then west on SR 91 targeting storms initiating southe west of Dunning. I headed south towards Milburn and west on SR S 21A towards Anselmo. A large, tornadic supercell was intercepted near Arnold, and near SR 92. After chasing, I backed east along SR 92 and SR 2 through Broken Bow to SR 10, then south to Kearney for the night.

June 9 was another chase day that ended up pushing the 2020 nail in the coffin even farther in terms of patience. A seemingly awesome setup was painted for a chase in north-central Kansas and extreme south-central Nebraska, pretty much near Highway 36 and Bellview as a target area, and points north and east. The SPC had a small enhanced-risk out for this area, with a 10% tornado, 15% wind, and 30% (hatched / significant) hail probability in that region. This was ahead of a compact low, with stationary front and confluence axis to the east of the low. I left Kearney and headed east on I-80 past Grand Island, then Highway 81 south out of York, past Hebron, and into Kansas, waiting in Bellview just north of Highway 36. Many storm chasers were there at a gas station, including Caleb Elliot, John Moon, Marcus Diaz, Greg Ansel, and Roger Hill (and his SLT tour vans), to name a few. The SPC issued MCD 889 by early afternoon, and tornado watch box 273, valid until 10 PM CDT. I waited there on the north side of Bellview, and creeped back north to near Chester, Nebraska, meeting Jeff Piotrowski on the side of Highway 81 there. Unfortunately, north of there, strong NW winds signaled a surging cold front (not stationary as forecasted). Storms that went up were messy, and undercut by outflow. Farther east, some supercell storms struggled along the more "reliable" confluence line. I headed east on Highway 36 towards Marysville, where I ran into long construction delays (pilot car in use). Near Marysville, the supercells started looking less defined. I, confused, bumped north along with Roger Hill to the Nebraska border, running into more construction and closed roads there. I back tracked east via SR 148 / 8 and back south east of Marysville and Highway 36 again, with the storm tornado warned (only a weak funnel was observed by those on that storm). I headed back north on some back roads, then SR 63 north to SR 8, then Highway 73 east out of Humboldt towards Falls City. From there, I headed back up to SR 67 and eventually Highway 136 east and into Missouri, wrapping up the chase there. I headed north on Highway 71 to SR 83, and eventually I-80 east. I spent the night on the east side of Des Moines, Iowa.

The period from June 10 to June 19 was down time, spent mainly in the western Chicago suburbs. On June 10, I left Des Moines and headed east on I-80 into Illinois, then Highway 30 back into Wheaton. After this period of quiet weather, thanks to limited moisture and ridging, I finally headed back out after June 19. June 20 was the first real chase day after this "down time", where I left Wheaton, IL very early via I-88 west to I-80, across Iowa, and into Nebraska via I-680 / SR 30 near Blair. The target area for the day was from central to north-central Nebraska, anywhere from Valentine to north of Kearney. The SPC had a slight-risk in place, extending from central Nebraska northward into the Dakotas, with a 15% wind and hail probability. Tornado probabilities were less than 2%, but obviously non-zero. The target area was in the south end of this slight risk. I headed west on SR 91 until I was near Brewster and Dunning by afternoon, and storms developed west of there between Highways 83 and 183. The SPC issued MCD 944, and subsequent severe thunderstorm watch 287, valid until 10 PM CDT. Two powerful supercells were intercepted, one between Dunning and Purdum, and another between Callaway and Oconto. The first produced at least two brief tornadoes. I continued back on SR 91, then south on SR 2 to near Broken Bow, then finally east and southeast on SR 40 / 2 to SR 10, spending the night in Kearney, Nebraska.

June 21 was a chase day with the final target being in SW Kansas. Two areas of interest were in east-central Nebraska and SW Kansas, where a 5% tornado probability was in place as per the 13z SPC outlooks, which also included and enhanced risk. Later, as per 1630z, the SPC issued a moderate risk for SW Kansas, maintaining the 5% tornado probabilities, but forecasting a 45% hatched (significant) wind and hail probability over SW Kansas. The wind and hail on the Nebraska target were 15% and 30%, respectively, with the hail hatched for significant. After much deliberation, I opted or the long trip to SW Kansas, owing to a cool pool of air in place over SE Nebraska. I left Kearney via I-80 east and headed south around lunch time from Grand Island on Highway 281. By mid afternoon, I was in Kansas and headed west and southwest via SR 4, Highway 183, and SR 96, and finally Highway 283 south towards Dodge City, where severe storms were encountered. The SPC issued MCD 953 for the area of SW Kansas, and subsequent severe thunderstorm watch box 290, valid until 10 PM CDT. The chase track continued south on Highway 283, and eventually Highway 54 southwestward towards Liberal, Kansas. The chase was wrapped up near Turpin, Oklahoma near Highways 83 and 64 in Beaver County. The night was spent in Liberal, Kansas.

June 22 was the final chase day of this long chase "expedition", with a target area in the western Texas Panhandle and extreme eastern New Mexico. I left Liberal early, via Highway 54 southwest towards Guymon, and SR 136 / 207 south into the Amarillo area. The SPC had a large slight-risk area in place, with a 15% hail and wind probability on their 1630z and 20z outlooks, with the hail probability hatched for significant. Tornado probabilities were less than 2%. I secured a hotel in Amarillo along I-40, then headed west and northwest via Highway 287 and SR 354 through Channing and into New Mexico near SR 417 in Harding County for some high-based severe storms. The chase continued back along SR 402 / 102 to northwest of Dalhart, Texas, targeting another powerful supercell in Sherman County along Ranch 281. The SPC also had MCD 971 and subsequent severe thunderstorm watch box 295, valid until 11 PM CDT. The chase was wrapped up near Sedan and Dumas, and I headed back down Highway 287, spending the night in Amarillo off I-40.

The period of June 23 and June 24 were travel days and the official end of this long chase trip. I left Amarillo during the morning of June 23, heading west on I-40, and arriving in Flagstaff, Arizona by late afternoon, spending the night there. On June 24, I made the final drive west on I-40 to Barstow, California, then I-15 to Highway 91, and west on that to Highways 55 and 22, and arrived in Garden Grove by the evening on June 24. This marks the end of the trip, with time after that spent mainly in Florida or California, depending on work. The total mileage on the chase vehicle, a 2016 Jeep Wrangler, was 22,721 miles.

CHASE EXPEDITION 2020 MAIN PARTICIPANTS

CHASER NAMEHOME / BASE CITYCALLSIGNCHASE DATESOCCUPATION
CHRIS COLLURAGARDEN GROVE, CAKG4PJN4/26 TO 6/24IT CONSULTANT

DETAILED CHASE LOG FOR CHASE EXPEDITION 2020

1). Apr 28, 6:00 PM - Observation and penetration of severe thunderstorms from north of Bartlesville, Oklahoma, and southward past Tulsa to near Henryetta, mainly from near Highways 75 and 60, and southward along Highway 75 to near SR 72 and Highway 62. The storms were a fast moving multicell cluster of strong and severe thunderstorms, with some embedded HP supercells. One of these storms produced a funnel cloud over Tulsa, observed from near SR 52 and Highway 169 in Tulsa County. Hail to 1", frequent lightning (with some close hits), heavy rains, and winds gusting over 60 MPH were observed with these storms. Conditions causing the storms were a strong upper trough, surface heating / convergence, a cold front, and low pressure trough. Documentation was digital stills and HD video. A 2016 Jeep Wrangler was used to chase the storms. A tornado watch was also in effect for the area until 11 PM CDT.

2). May 2, 7:30 PM - Observation of strong thunderstorms from near and east of Denver International Airport from along I-70 in eastern Denver County. The storm was a multicell cluster of strong thunderstorms. The core was not penetrated, which contained small hail. Frequent lightning was also observed, as well as a possible small funnel. The southern end of this storm complex had a small supercell thunderstorm, which was also observed from a distance looking to the southeast. Conditions causing the storms were surface heating, up-slope wind flow, and an upper trough. Documentation was digital stills. A 2016 Jeep Wrangler was used to chase the storms.

3). May 3, 7:00 PM - Observation and indirect penetration of a severe thunderstorm to the west and southwest of Wray, Colorado in Yuma County, and along Highway 34. The storm was a cluster of strong and severe storms, originally spawned by convective up-slope near the Palmer Divide west of Limon, that moved northeast off the higher elevations. One intense storm was warned for quarter sized hail and 60 MPH winds, but the core was not penetrated directly. Conditions encountered were 40 MPH winds, rain, small hail, and occasional lightning. Conditions causing the storms were surface heating, up-slope wind flow, and an upper trough. Documentation was digital stills. A 2016 Jeep Wrangler was used to chase the storms.

4). May 4, 6:30 PM - Observation and penetration of a very severe, and possibly tornadic thunderstorm in Mayes County, Oklahoma, from near Foyil, and through Pryor to Salina, mainly near Highway 69 and SR 20. The storm was an HP supercell storm. A large, rotating wall cloud, with occasional funnels, was noted with this storm, which became rain-wrapped at times. The storm also had a striated appearance and inflow bands when viewed from the east. Frequent lightning was also encountered, including numerous close hits with powerful positive smooth-channel lightning. Large hail, up to 2", was also noted, with large pieces splashing into Hudson Lake near Salina. Winds gusting over 50 MPH and heavy rain was also noted with this storm. Conditions causing the storms were surface heating, a low pressure area, cold front, and an upper trough. Documentation was HD video, digital stills, and audio. A 2016 Jeep Wrangler was used to chase the storms. A tornado watch as also valid for the area until 10 PM CDT.

5). May 7, 6:00 PM - Observation and direct penetration of an extremely severe and possibly tornadic thunderstorm from northwest of Childress, Texas in Childress County near Highway 287 and southeastward to near Newcastle and Highway 380 in Young County. The storm was a powerful classic and HP supercell storm, initiating to the NW of Childress, with a distinct storm split (the southern, right-moving supercell being the main storm). Conditions encountered with this storm were 60 to 70 MPH winds, frequent lightning, and hail to baseball sized. This storm caused extensive hail damage along the path of its hail swath. A few brush fires were also started from lightning, with smoke noted interacting with the airflow around the core of the supercell. This supercell also had a striking visual appearance, with a "mothership" / stacked-plates presentation. The chase vehicle had hail guards covering the windows, with damage mainly large dings to the hood. Some funnels were also observed, with one large one, possibly a brief tornado, observed to the NW of Seymour while still in baseball sized hail looking southwest. Conditions causing the storms were surface heating, a low pressure area, dryline, and an upper trough. Documentation was HD video, digital stills, and audio. A 2016 Jeep Wrangler was used to chase the storms. A severe thunderstorm watch as also valid for the area until 10 PM CDT.

6). May 13, 4:30 PM - Observation of a strong to severe thunderstorm northwest of Canadian, Texas in Hemphill and Lipscomb Counties near Highway 60. The storm was an LP supercell. The core (probably with 1" hail) was not penetrated. Some lightning was also observed. Conditions causing the storms were surface heating, a low pressure trough, dryline, and an upper trough. Documentation was HD video (including a time-lapse) and digital stills. A 2016 Jeep Wrangler was used to chase the storms. A severe thunderstorm watch as also valid for the area until 10 PM CDT.

7). May 13, 6:00 PM - Observation of a severe thunderstorm near Sweetwater, Oklahoma in Cheyenne and Beckham Counties near SR 152 / 6. The storm was a small classic supercell. The core was indirectly penetrated during its earlier stages and quarter sized hail was encountered briefly. Some rain and lightning was also observed. Conditions causing the storms were surface heating, a low pressure trough, boundary interactions, and an upper trough. Documentation was HD video and digital stills. A 2016 Jeep Wrangler was used to chase the storms. A severe thunderstorm watch as also valid for the area until 10 PM CDT.

8). May 13, 7:00 PM - Observation and indirect penetration of a severe thunderstorm near Sayre, Oklahoma in Backham County near SR 152. The storm was a small classic supercell, with a distinct left and right split. The core (with 1.5" hail reported) was not directly penetrated. Some lightning was also observed, with rain, 60 MPH winds, and small hail. Conditions causing the storms were surface heating, a low pressure trough, boundary interactions, and an upper trough. Documentation was HD video (including a time-lapse) and digital stills. A 2016 Jeep Wrangler was used to chase the storms. A severe thunderstorm watch as also valid for the area until 10 PM CDT.

9). May 14, 6:00 PM - Observation and indirect penetration of a severe thunderstorm north of Emporia and SW of Americus, Kansas in Lyon and Morris Counties near SR 99. The storm was a small classic supercell storm that undergone down-scaling and split, with the right split intensifying and becoming the main storm. The storm core was indirectly penetrated, and hail up to 1" was observed. Heavy rains, lightning, and 35 MPH winds were also encountered. The storm also had a striking visual appearance, with a tilted "barber pole" updraft, flared "bell shaped" base, and rotating wall cloud / RFD cut. Some small funnels were also observed with this storm before it cycled down and weakened. Conditions causing the storms were surface heating, a low pressure trough, pre-frontal convergence, and an upper trough. Documentation was HD video and digital stills. A 2016 Jeep Wrangler was used to chase the storms. A severe thunderstorm watch as also valid for the area until 12 AM CDT the next day.

10). May 15, 6:00 PM - Interception and Observation of a severe thunderstorm near Calhan, Colorado in El Paso County, and near SR 94 and Highway 24. The storm was a classic supercell storm, developing on the Colorado Palmer Divide. An area of strong rotation, with a pronounced wall cloud and RFD cleat slot was noted with this storm. A few small funnels were also observed. The core of the storm, containing golfball sized hail, was not penetrated. Frequent lightning, 30 MPH winds, and light rain were observed to the south of the storm core. The storm also had a striking visual appearance, with striations and inflow banding. Conditions causing the storms were surface heating, a low pressure trough, up-slope wind flow, and an upper trough. Documentation was time-lapse video and digital stills. A 2016 Jeep Wrangler was used to chase the storm.

11). May 17, 5:30 PM - Interception and penetration of a strong thunderstorm near Forrest, Illinois in Livingston County, and near SR 47 and Highway 24. The storm was a mart of an extensive cluster of strong and severe thunderstorms, mainly in a line. An area of rotation was noted with this storm, with a brief funnel, wrapping in rain. The storm also produced occasional lightning, very heavy rains, and winds gusting near 50 MPH. Severe flash flooding was also observed with these storms. Conditions causing the storms were limited surface heating, a low pressure area, cold / warm front interactions, and an upper trough. Documentation was HD video and digital stills. A 2016 Jeep Wrangler was used to chase the storm. A severe thunderstorm watch as also valid for the area until 10 PM CDT.

12). May 21, 5:30 PM - Interception and observation a very severe thunderstorm west of Syracuse, Kansas, along Highway 50 in Hamilton County. The storm was a powerful HP supercell undergoing evolution to a line segment, and merged with a smaller LP supercell just its east near Kendall. Some brief (small land-spout) tornadoes were reported with this storm earlier, but were not directly observed. The storm contained baseball sized hail and 70 MPH winds, but the core was not penetrated. Winds near 50 MPH, small hail, frequent lightning, and heavy rain were observed with this storm. The storm had both a wall cloud and impressive gust front / shelf cloud during its outflow stages. Conditions causing this storm were surface heating, a low pressure area, cold front, and an upper trough. Documentation digital stills. A 2016 Jeep Wrangler was used to chase the storm. A severe thunderstorm watch as also valid for the area until 10 PM CDT.

13). May 21, 7:00 PM - Interception, observation, and penetration an extremely severe and tornadic thunderstorm between Ulysses and Lakin, Kansas, along SR 25 in Kearney County. The storm was a large HP supercell storm, and had an extreme visual appearance south of Lakin during its intense stages, with multiple "stacked-plates" or "mothership" presentation. A rotating wall cloud was noted on the NE side of the storm, with strong inflow to 50 MPH, and RFD kicking up dust. Some funnels were also observed, and a brief tornado (not intercept) was later reported as the storm weakened towards Garden City. Conditions encountered were frequent lightning, winds over 70 MPH, hail up to golfball sized, and torrential rains. The penetration of the storm was through the wet RFD region, avoiding the larger hail to the north with the forward flank of the storm. Conditions causing this storm were surface heating, a low pressure area, dryline / boundary interactions, and an upper trough. Documentation digital stills and HD video. A 2016 Jeep Wrangler was used to chase the storm. A severe thunderstorm watch as also valid for the area until 10 PM CDT.

14). May 21, 8:30 PM - Interception, observation, and penetration another very severe and possibly tornadic thunderstorm near Satanta and Sublette, Kansas, from near Highway 83 in Haskell County. The storm was a supercell storm going from LP to Classic, and ultimately HP in a complex evolution. This storm also had an impressive visual presentation, with multiple "stacked-plates" or a "mothership" appearance when viewed from a truck stop near Sublette. A rotating wall cloud was noted with a large funnel. Tornado touchdown could not be confirmed due to low light. Very strong inflow exceeding 50 MPH was noted with this storm, with some papers and light debris being pulled towards the storm. The RFD presented a wind shift, and contained winds over 70 MPH, which was penetrated during the later stages of the storm. Other conditions encountered were frequent lightning, hail to 1", and torrential rains. The main core was not penetrated. Conditions causing this storm were surface heating, a low pressure area, dryline / boundary interactions, and an upper trough. Documentation was digital stills and HD video (including a storm time-lapse). A 2016 Jeep Wrangler was used to chase the storm. A severe thunderstorm watch as also valid for the area until 10 PM CDT.

15). May 22, 6:30 PM - Observation and indirect penetration of an extremely severe and tornadic thunderstorm from near Davidson, Oklahoma in Tillman County near Highway 70, and southeastward through Burkburnett, Texas near I-44 and SR 79, until near Petrolia in Clay County. The storm was a classic to HP supercell storm. At least one weak tornado, with a funnel and rotating wall cloud, with ground contact denoted by dust, was observed during the early stages of the storm. This thunderstorm produced extremely large hail, possible record-setting, with pieces crashing through roofs of homes, especially near Burkburnett. Powerlines down and wind damage was also noted in Clay County east of Shepard Air Force Base. This storm also had an impressive "stacked-plates" visual appearance. The core of this storm was not directly penetrated, although hail exceeding baseball sized was observed. The storm also developed a well-defined RFD, with a distinct clear slot and winds gusting to near 80 MPH. A smaller second tornado was observed as well off FM 171. In addition to extremely large hail and weak tornadoes, winds gusting near 80 MPH, frequent lightning (with close hits), and torrential, horizontal rains were also observed. Conditions causing the storms were surface heating, a low pressure area, outflow boundary / dryline interactions, and an upper trough. Documentation was digital stills, audio, and HD video. A 2016 Jeep Wrangler was used to chase the storm. A severe thunderstorm watch as also valid for the area until 8 PM CDT.

16). May 23, 4:30 PM - Interception, observation, and penetration of a very severe and tornadic thunderstorm from near Pecatonica in Winnebago County, Illinois by Highway 20, and points northeastward to near Beloit and Clinton, Wisconsin in Rock County near I-39 and I-43. The storm was a small classic to HP supercell storm. At least two weak tornadoes were observed with this supercell thunderstorm, one northwest of Rockford, IL, and another west of Clinton, WI. The latter became rain wrapped quickly. Torrential rains, 65 MPH winds, occasional lightning, and small hail was also encountered with this storm. Conditions causing the storm were surface heating, a low pressure system, warm front, convergence line, and upper trough. Documentation was digital stills and HD video. A 2016 Jeep Wrangler was used to chase the storm. A tornado watch as also valid for the area until 8 PM CDT.

17). May 23, 6:30 PM - Penetration of a severe, and possibly tornadic, thunderstorm in McHenry County, Illinois to the east of Marengo along Highway 20. The storm was an HP supercell storm embedded in a line segment of strong and severe thunderstorms. A strong rotation signature was evident on radar, but just shifting, strong winds were observed east of Marengo. The storm was completely rain wrapped, with a brief glimpse of a rotating wall cloud / rapidly up-drafting scud on the eastern edge of the storm. Conditions encountered were occasional lightning, 60 MPH winds, torrential rains, and small hail. Conditions causing the storms were surface heating, a low pressure system, warm front, convergence line, and upper trough. Documentation was digital stills and HD video. A 2016 Jeep Wrangler was used to chase the storm. A tornado watch as also valid for the area until 8 PM CDT.

18). May 24, 4:00 PM - Interception and penetration of a severe thunderstorm near Jamesport, Missouri in Daviess County, and near Highway 65, and SR 6 and B. The storm was a brief HP supercell storm, developing at the end of a line segment. The storm had a rotating wall cloud before quickly becoming undercut by outflow. The storm evolved into a multicell storm cluster, then a line by late afternoon as it was followed north and east toward near Spickard. Conditions encountered were small hail, 60 MPH winds, torrential rains, and lightning. The main core was not penetrated during the intense stages of the storm, and contained hail to half-dollar sized. Conditions causing the storms were surface heating, a low pressure trough, warm front, convergence line, and upper trough. Documentation was digital stills. A 2016 Jeep Wrangler was used to chase the storm. A severe thunderstorm watch as also valid for the area until 8 PM CDT.

19). May 25, 6:00 PM - Observation of a strong thunderstorm from Highway 30 east of Cedar Rapids, Iowa in Linn County. The storm was a brief supercell that evolved to a multicell cluster and down-scaled. The core was not penetrated, but a brief funnel, about 1/3 way to the ground, was noted on the southern side of this storm. Conditions causing the storms were a surface heating, a weakening low pressure area, convergence, and weak upper trough. Documentation was digital stills. A 2016 Jeep Wrangler was used to chase the storm.

20). May 26, 3:00 PM - Interception, observation, and penetration of severe and tornadic thunderstorms in a cluster from northwest of Des Moines, Iowa near Dallas County and Highway 169, and northward to near Goldfield in Humboldt County and SR 6 / I-35. The storm cluster contained areas of intense low level rotation, with embedded classing / HP mini supercells. Three tornadoes were observed with these storms, one west of Granger, another near Ogden, and one north near Goldfield. Other conditions encountered were torrential rains, occasional lightning, small hail, and 60 MPH winds. No damage was observed, as any tornadoes remained over open rural areas and were not long lasting. Conditions causing the storms were a surface heating, a low pressure area, shear / confluence axis, and upper trough. Documentation was digital stills and HD video. A 2016 Jeep Wrangler was used to chase the storm. A tornado watch was also valid for the area until 8 PM CDT.

21). June 2, 5:00 PM - Observation and penetration of a very severe and possibly tornadic thunderstorm from southwest of Mankato, Minnesota in Blue Earth County and Highway 169, and south and east through Freeborn County and near Geneva an I-35 / SR 30. The storm was a powerful classic supercell storm (on the eastern part of a cluster of strong and severe storms) that evolved to HP, and eventually a bow segment. This supercell storm was documented during its entire life-cycle, from initiation (out of a TCU field west of Mankato) to evolution to a bow segment near Geneva. The storm produced large hail to tennis ball sized (although when the core was penetrated, hail to 2" was observed), lightning, torrential rains, and winds exceeding 75 MPH. Some funnels and gustnadoes, with one dust cloud observed under a funnel / wall cloud (possible tornado) north of Mapleton. The storm caused damage to powerlines, and trees were observed being blown over. Some semi-trucks were also noted overturned on I-35 north of Albert Lea and near Geneva. The storms were caused by surface heating, a weak low pressure area, nearly stationary frontal boundary, and an upper trough. Documentation was digital stills, HD video, and audio. A 2016 Jeep Wrangler was used to chase the storm. A severe thunderstorm watch was also valid for the area until 12 AM CDT.

22). June 3, 4:30 PM - Interception, observation, and indirect penetration of a severe thunderstorm in Cherry County, Nebraska near Highway 83. The storm was a classic supercell storm, which split and evolved into a multicell storm cluster. The storm had hail up to 2", and during an indirect penetration of the south side of the storm core, hail to 1" was observed, covering the ground. The storm also contained lightning, heavy rains, and winds exceeding 70 MPH. A rotating wall cloud was also observed before the storm became undercut and outflow dominant. The storms were caused by surface heating, a low pressure trough, and an upper trough. Documentation was digital stills and HD video. A 2016 Jeep Wrangler was used to chase the storm. A severe thunderstorm watch was also valid for the area until 7 PM MDT (8 PM CDT).

23). June 4, 5:30 PM - Interception, observation, and penetration of a severe thunderstorm from near Faith, South Dakota in Meade County and SR 73 and southeastward near and south of the Cheyenne Indian Reservation along SR 34. The storm was a long-track, classic to HP supercell storm that became outflow dominant and evolved to a bow segment before weakening near I-90 SW of Pierre. The storm was mostly observed externally during the long-range intercept. Once encountering the storm, strong winds over 60 MPH, heavy rains, lightning, and hail to 1" was encountered. The storm core had hail to baseball sized earlier, before it was penetrated. The storm also had a low wall cloud and RFD clear slot, but was undercut by outflow. Conditions causing the storm were surface heating, a stationary frontal boundary, low pressure trough, and upper trough. Documentation was digital stills. A 2016 Jeep Wrangler was used to chase the storm. A severe thunderstorm watch was also valid for the area until 10 PM MDT (11 PM CDT).

24). June 4, 8:00 PM - Observation of a severe thunderstorm south of Wall, South Dakota, mainly over Pennington County and near Interior from I-90. The storm was a classic supercell storm that passed over the eastern part of Rapid City earlier as an HP storm with a large swath of hail left there. When the storm was observed, a large wall cloud and brief funnel was noted looking south from I-90. The storm core, over the Badlands National Park, was not penetrated. Lightning, light rain, and 40 MPH winds were also noted at my location. Conditions causing the storm were surface heating, a stationary frontal boundary, low pressure trough, and upper trough. Documentation was digital stills. A 2016 Jeep Wrangler was used to chase the storm. A severe thunderstorm watch was also valid for the area until 10 PM MDT (11 PM CDT).

25). June 6, 8:00 PM - Observation and penetration of severe thunderstorms from Butte County, South Dakota near Newell and Highway 21, north and east to near SR 79 and Highway 12 in NE Perkins County. The storm was part of a large area of severe thunderstorms, most likely a derecho, in an extensive linear / bow MCS. The gust front and shelf cloud presented a striking visual appearance on the leading edge of this system. Conditions encountered were heavy rains, winds over 70 MPH, lightning, and small hail. Conditions causing the storm were surface heating, a low pressure area, surface trough, warm front, and upper trough. Documentation was digital stills and HD video. A 2016 Jeep Wrangler was used to chase the storm. A severe thunderstorm watch was also valid for the area until 1 AM MDT (12 AM CDT) the following day.

26). June 7, 5:30 PM - Interception and observation of a severe thunderstorm near Kennedy, Minnesota in Kittson County, and near Highway 75 and SR 20. The storm was a classic supercell that evolved into a line segment, and eventually pushed into Canada. For a while, a rotating wall cloud was observed with this storm, with a brief funnel. The core was not penetrated, but contained hail to quarter sized. Light rain, lightning, and 45 MPH inflow winds were observed with this storm. Conditions causing this storm were surface heating, a warm front, low pressure area, and upper trough. Documentation was digital stills and HD video. A 2016 Jeep Wrangler was used to chase the storm. A tornado watch was also valid for the area until 10 PM CDT.

27). June 7, 7:30 PM - Interception and penetration of a severe thunderstorm near Argyle, Minnesota in Marshall County, and along Highway 75. The storm was a small classic supercell. The storm was high-based and became undercut by cooler air ahead of the warm front. Hail to quarter sized, heavy rain, lightning, and 50 MPH winds were observed with this storm. Conditions causing this storm were surface heating, a warm front, low pressure area, and upper trough. Documentation was digital stills. A 2016 Jeep Wrangler was used to chase the storm. A tornado watch was also valid for the area until 10 PM CDT.

28). June 7, 8:00 PM - Interception and indirect penetration of a severe thunderstorm north of Alvarado, Minnesota in Marshall County, near SR 1 and SR 220. The storm was also a small classic supercell, which as also high-based and became undercut by cooler air east of the warm front / outflow from other storms. Small hail, heavy rain, lightning, and 50 MPH winds were observed with this storm. The core was not directly penetrated. Conditions causing this storm were surface heating, a warm front / outflow boundary interactions, low pressure area, and upper trough. Documentation was digital stills. A 2016 Jeep Wrangler was used to chase the storm. A tornado watch was also valid for the area until 10 PM CDT.

29). June 7, 9:30 PM - Penetration of severe thunderstorms along I-29 from Traill County, North Dakota near Buxton, and southward to Cass county north of Fargo. The storm was a powerful MCS of strong and severe thunderstorms. Blowing dust and small gustnadoes were visible on the leading edge of this multicell cluster / line of thunderstorms. Winds gusting over 70 MPH were encountered, with torrential rains, small hail, and frequent lightning. Conditions causing these storms were surface heating, boundary interactions, low pressure area, and upper trough. Documentation was digital stills and HD video. A 2016 Jeep Wrangler was used to chase the storms. A tornado watch was also valid for the area until 10 PM CDT.

30). June 8, 8:00 PM - Interception and observation of an extremely severe and tornadic thunderstorm near Arnold, Nebraska in Custer County, along SR 92 northwest of Broken Bow. The storm was a powerful HP supercell storm at the south end of a cluster of severe thunderstorms. The core of this storm was not penetrated, and contained hail exceeding 2" with strong winds. Inflow winds over 50 MPH were encountered with a rotating wall cloud, and broad tornado under the rotating portion of the supercell. A loud hail roar was also audible, and frequent lightning was also observed, with some close hits. The supercell had an impressive visual presentation, with striations and inflow banding, and "stacked plates" appearance. The storm remained over open areas and did little damage. Conditions causing the storm were surface heating, a low pressure trough, stationary frontal boundary, and upper trough. Documentation was digital stills and HD video. A 2016 Jeep Wrangler was used to chase the storm. A severe thunderstorm watch was also valid for the area until 2 AM CDT the following day.

31). June 9, 6:00 PM - Observation of severe thunderstorms from near Bellview, Kansas in Washington County along Highways 81 and 36, and eastward to north of Marysville, and eventually to near Falls City, Nebraska near Highway 73 in Richardson County. The storms were a broken line of severe thunderstorms, along a confluence arc, extending east and southeast from a surface low over Kansas. Some of these storms were small classic supercells. The cores were not penetrated, and two small funnels were observed. One of these cells near Marysville produced a funnel (not observed) that was reported as a brief tornado (unconfirmed). Some lightning, rain, and 40 MPH winds were otherwise encountered, with small hail noted on the side of the road behind the storms. Conditions causing the storm were surface heating, a low pressure area, convergence line, cold front, and upper trough. Documentation was digital stills. A 2016 Jeep Wrangler was used to chase the storm. A tornado watch was also valid for the area until 10 PM CDT.

32). June 20, 5:00 PM - Interception, observation, and indirect penetration of an extremely severe and tornadic thunderstorm in Blaine County, Nebraska from north of SR 91 near Dunning, Halsey, and Purdum. The storm was a powerful classic supercell developing in the northwest flow aloft. The storm had winds over 60 MPH, large hail (to baseball sized), frequent lightning, and heavy rains. At least two brief tornadoes were also observed with this storm, one between Halsey and Purdum, and another northeast of Dunning. Hail between 1.5" and 2" was also noted in the road northeast of Dunning. The core was only indirectly penetrated. No damage was observed since the main part of the storm remained over rural areas. This supercell had a striking visual appearance as well, with a pronounced RFD clear slot, and multiple striations on the updraft tower. Conditions causing the storm were surface heating, a low pressure area, convergence line, and upper trough (NW flow aloft). Documentation was digital stills and HD video. A 2016 Jeep Wrangler was used to chase the storm. A severe thunderstorm watch was also valid for the area until 10 PM CDT.

33). June 20, 7:00 PM - Interception, observation, and indirect penetration of a very severe thunderstorm in Custer County, Nebraska along SR 2 between Oconta and Callaway. The storm was a powerful classic supercell that evolved to LP (low precipitation), and eventually dissipated via down-scaling. Conditions encountered were 50 MPH winds (mainly RFD), light rain, lightning, and hail up to golfball sized. The storm produced some small funnels, one about half way to the ground. This supercell had a very striking visual appearance as well, with a pronounced RFD clear slot, and "stacked-plates" appearance of the updraft with a "mother ship" presentation when viewed just ahead of it. When the storm evolved to LP and weakened, a highly-sheared, multiple striation "barber pole" appearance was noted. Conditions causing the storm were surface heating, a low pressure area, convergence line, and upper trough (NW flow aloft). Documentation was digital stills and HD video. A 2016 Jeep Wrangler was used to chase the storm. A severe thunderstorm watch was also valid for the area until 10 PM CDT.

34). June 21, 6:00 PM - Interception and observation of severe thunderstorms from near Dodge City, Kansas in Ford County and along Highways 283 and 54, and southward to near Liberal near the KS / OK border in Seward and Beaver counties. The storms were a multicell cluster of severe storms, with some embedded supercells, and mostly outflow dominant. A "tail-end" supercell was encountered northeast of Liberal as well. Strong winds near 65 MPH, with lots of dust, frequent lightning, and light rain was observed. The hail cores of the storms were not penetrated. The dust raised by the gust front of the storm complex also created a haboob of dust. Conditions causing the storm were surface heating, a low pressure area, dryline / stationary front, and upper trough. Documentation was digital stills and HD video (time-lapse). A 2016 Jeep Wrangler was used to chase the storm. A severe thunderstorm watch was also valid for the area until 10 PM CDT.

35). June 22, 5:30 PM - Interception and indirect penetration of a severe thunderstorm in Union and Harding Counties, New Mexico near SR 102 / 402. The storm was a high-based severe thunderstorm, and briefly attained HP supercell mode before evolving into a cluster of storms. Very heavy rains, small hail, frequent lightning with some close hits, and 60 MPH winds were encountered. The core of the storm, with golfball sized hail, was not directly penetrated. Conditions causing the storm were surface heating, a low pressure trough, up-slope wind flow, and upper trough. Documentation was digital stills. A 2016 Jeep Wrangler was used to chase the storm. A severe thunderstorm watch was also valid for the area until 11 PM CDT.

36). June 22, 7:00 PM - Interception and indirect penetration of a very severe and possibly tornadic thunderstorm in Sherman and Moore Counties, Texas, northeast of Dumas and near Highway 287 and Ranch 281. The storm was a powerful HP supercell storm. The core of this storm, with hail up to baseball sized, was not directly penetrated. This supercell eventually was undercut by outflow, but had a dramatic visual appearance, with a "stacked plates" base and striations above it. A large wall cloud was also observed, with a gustnado / brief, dusty weak tornado observed southwest of Sunray. Other conditions encountered were 70 MPH winds, heavy rains, frequent lightning with close hits, and hail to 1". Some tree / sign damage was noted in Dumas, and a trailer overturned with emergency crew on scene south of Dumas off Highway 287. Conditions causing the storm were surface heating, a low pressure trough, boundary interactions, and upper trough. Documentation was digital stills. A 2016 Jeep Wrangler was used to chase the storm. A severe thunderstorm watch was also valid for the area until 11 PM CDT.

This concludes the chase log for the central US Plains for the main chase "expedition" of 2020 starting April 26 and ending on June 24. The summary includes a total of 36 observation(s), out of which there were 33 severe thunderstorms and 3 strong thunderstorms. Out of these thunderstorms, as many as 14 possible tornadoes were observed, although most of these were weak and brief. A 2016 Jeep Wrangler vehicle was used in all of the chases / observations above, logging a total of 22,721 miles. All entries for the logs above are for the local time zone unless otherwise noted. This information was prepared exclusively for the National Weather service and the team of Skywarn storm spotters.

GALLERY FOR APRIL 26, 2020

Heading out of California and across Arizona on April 26. This was the first day of the main chase trip of 2020.

GALLERY FOR APRIL 27, 2020

April 27 was mainly a travel day for this trip, ending in Amarillo, Texas. The images above show the severe weather setup, although highly marginal, for SW Texas. The left image shows the 1630z slight risk issued by the Storm Prediction Center (SPC), with MCD 480 in the middle image. Hail and wind probabilities issued by the SPC were 15% and 5%, respectively. The annotated visible satellite (around 23z) is shown to the right, with storms developing in SW Texas, extending southward along the dryline into the Davis mountains in Mexico.

View of distant high-based cumulus developing on the north side of a moisture axis over SW Texas. The view is SE from near Clovis, New Mexico on April 27. Chasing was not done, since deeper convection was too far south to intercept (south of Fort Stockton / Mexico).
View of parking lot at the motel (Super 8) in Amarillo during the afternoon of April 27. Contrary to fears of COVID-19, social distancing obviously should be easy at such un-crowded hotels and areas!

GALLERY FOR APRIL 28, 2020

April 28 was a chase day in northeastern Oklahoma. The images above show the severe weather setup, with the SPC issuing a large moderate-risk area as of 13z. The left image shows the 13z tornado probabilities (10%) in the moderate-risk area. This area also had a bulls-eye of 45% hail, surrounded by a larger area of 45% wind probabilities (both hatched for significant). The middle image shows MCD 484, and the right one subsequent tornado watch-box 150, valid until 11 PM CDT.

Annotated visible satellite image of storms developing across northeastern Oklahoma around 23z on April 28. The chase target area is in the northeastern portion of the state north of Tulsa, and is in the northwest flow aloft ahead of the upper wave to the north.
Radar image (base reflectivity, and Doppler velocity inset) of a tornado-warned storm in a cluster of severe storms over northeastern Oklahoma late in the afternoon of April 28. The inset (velocity) shows the broad rotation of the HP supercell.
View of HP supercell embedded in a cluster of severe thunderstorms, looking north, on April 28 during the late afternoon over NE Oklahoma. Note the wet RFD and "notch". This storm was tornado-warned.
Wall cloud on an HP supercell embedded in a cluster of severe thunderstorms, looking west and northwest in NE Oklahoma during the late afternoon of April 28. The storm here is about to be undercut by surging outflow.
Jeff Piotrowski and his vehicle during storm chasing north of Tulsa, Oklahoma on April 28.
View of the southwestern portion of an HP supercell storm moving over Tulsa, Oklahoma on April 28 during the evening. A funnel and wall cloud can be seen here, and this storm was tornado warned.
View of powerful gust front and shelf cloud during the early evening of April 28 near Haskell, Oklahoma.

GALLERY FOR APRIL 29 TO MAY 1, 2020

The period from April 29 to May 1 was down time without any significant weather setups. In this picture, I am cutting my own hair since there was simply no place to get it cut! Barber shops remained closed due to the COVID-19 crisis as of April 29, 2020.
Cheapest gas I have seen since the mid 1980s! This was at a gas station near Norman, Oklahoma on April 29, where gas was a mere 89 cents a gallon.
The famous Big Texan steakhouse in Amarillo, Texas. Here with social distancing becoming somewhat less constrained by May 1, this establishment offered limited outdoor seating, delivery, and pickup / on-line ordering amid the COVID-19 crisis of 2020. The main dining area remained closed.
Weak, high-based (and low topped) convection producing mainly virga and small hail near Amarillo, Texas on May 1.
Myself enjoying the 22 oz rib-eye steak in my hotel room late in the day on May 1.

GALLERY FOR MAY 2, 2020

May 2 was a highly conditional and marginal chase day, with a trip to the Denver area. In the annotated graphic above, the SPC has issued a marginal-risk area for a few distinct areas over the country as of 13z. The small area in NE Colorado was the one of interest for the day. The middle image shows MCD 512 issued, with no subsequent watch area. To the right, is the 23z visible satellite, showing up-slope convection over northeastern Colorado in the target region.

View across the open grassland towards Twin Butte, an extinct volcanic formation in Prowers County in SE Colorado, looking east from Highway 385 headed north on May 2.
Horizontal convective rolls affecting the low level cloud deck in eastern Colorado during the afternoon of May 2.
Cluster of strong and severe thunderstorms to the southeast of Denver International Airport late in the day on May 2.
Radar (base reflectivity) image of a small supercell thunderstorm southeast of the Denver area during the evening of May 2.
View of a small supercell thunderstorm with lightning moving east and southeast of the Denver area during the evening of May 2 after dusk.

GALLERY FOR MAY 3, 2020

May 3 was another marginal area, mainly targeting northeastern Colorado. In the graphic above, the target area is annotated over the 1630z SPC outlook map in the left image. My target was for the southern portions of a marginal outlook area, with 5% wind and hail probabilities. The enhanced-risk area from the Missouri boot-heel region and eastward to the southern OH valley was not considered as it was just for a wind threat. The area in Texas was not an objective either. Tornado probabilities were 2% or less in all areas. The middle image shows MCD 521 issued for the areas of interest. To the right, is an annotated visible satellite image, at around 23z, showing the storm I was chasing (arrow).

Annotated visible satellite (around 23z) showing storms developing from NE Colorado into SW Nebraska during the late afternoon of May 3.
Organizing, agitated cumulus over the Palmer Divide in NE Colorado, looking south and southwest from northwest of Limon during the afternoon of May 3.
Developing high-based up-slope thunderstorms on the Palmer Divide in NE Colorado, looking west from near the Cedar Point exit off I-70 during the afternoon of May 3. The people in the foreground are not storm chasers, just a family stopped there to take in the view.
Developing severe storm near Yuma, Colorado during the afternoon of May 3.
Radar (base reflectivity) image of a severe-warned storm southeast of Yuma, Colorado during the afternoon of May 3.
Shelf cloud and hail core of a severe thunderstorm, looking east along Highway 34 between Yuma and Wray, Colorado during the evening of May 3.
Supercell and back-sheared anvil looming in the western sky (from NW Kansas) at around dusk on May 3.

GALLERY FOR MAY 4, 2020

May 4 was a chase day with a seemingly good chance of tornadoes, only to not be realized due to linear forcing along a surging cold front and poor upper air dynamics. The left image above shows the 10% hatched tornado probability area, which was part of an enhanced-risk outlook as per SPC at 1630z. Wind and hail probabilities were also at 15 and 30 percent, respectively, with the hail outlook also hatched for significant. The middle image shows MCD 531 issued for the target area, with subsequent tornado watch box 163, valid until 10 PM CDT, in the right image.

Vehicle with hail-guards installed for the chase in NE Oklahoma on May 4.
Approaching a developing HP supercell from the north in NE Oklahoma (near Foyil) during the afternoon of May 4.
Annotated visible satellite of storms over Oklahoma at around 23z on May 4.
Small funnel / rotating wall cloud on developing H supercell storm near Foyil, Oklahoma on May 4. The view is to the west.
Radar (base reflectivity) image of a supercell storm (with velocity inset) west of Salina, Oklahoma during the late afternoon of May 4.
View of HP supercell notch, looking to the southwest, and into the low level mesocyclone west of Salina, Oklahoma late in the afternoon on May 4.
Rolling tail cloud feeding in rapidly from right to left into the wall cloud of an HP supercell storm southwest of Salina, Oklahoma late on May 4. The view is to the west and southwest. Note the splashes of hail in Hudson Lake in the foreground.
Weakening HP supercell storm, with area of rotation, looking northeast from the southeast of Salina, Oklahoma during the evening of May 4. The view is to the NNW
Mammatus clouds looking west and southwest near dusk in NE Oklahoma / NW Arkansas during the evening of May 4.

GALLERY FOR MAY 5-6, 2020

Beautiful carpet of yellow wildflowers blanket a pecan grove while traveling to Wichita, Kansas (this was near Sherwin) on May 5, which was a travel day.
Stopping at the memorial for Tim and Paul Samaras, and Carl Young, killed in the 2013 El Reno tornado. This was on May 6 near Radio and Reuter road in SW El Reno.

GALLERY FOR MAY 7, 2020

May 7 was a chase day with a main objective of seeing large hail and storm structure, targeting the SE Texas panhandle. The left image above shows the "revised" enhanced-risk outlook as per SPC at 20z, with the main target to the SW over the SE Texas panhandle. Wind and hail probabilities were both at 30 percent, and also hatched for significant. Tornado probabilities were from 2% to 5%. The middle image shows MCD 547 issued for the target area, with subsequent severe thunderstorm watch box 170, valid until 10 PM CDT, in the right image.

Convective initiation of storms near the intersection of a frontal boundary and dryline west of Childress, Texas during the afternoon of May 7. The view is to the west along Highway 287.
Tim Marshall and a few other storm chasers watching a developing supercell storm west of Childress, Texas during the afternoon of May 7.
Development of supercell thunderstorm near Childress, Texas during the late afternoon of May 7. The view is to the northwest.
Wall cloud and smoke (from a fire started by lightning) being pulled into the developing supercell storm east of Childress, Texas on May 7. The view is to the north.
Impressive supercell leading edge to the west of Chillicoth, Texas during the late afternoon of May 7. The view is to the SSW. Isolated hail to near baseball sized was falling in this area.
Annotated visible satellite image, at about 22z, of the synoptic setup and storms developing in NW Texas during the afternoon of May 7.
High-resolution GOES-16 visible satellite image, at about 23z, of the powerful supercell storm in NW Texas during the afternoon of May 7. Some storm tops have reached 60,000 feet. Note the left split of the storm pushing to the NE into Oklahoma, as well as the storm V-Notch of the right (main) split moving to the ESE.
Radar (base reflectivity) image of the supercell storm as it was nearing Chillicoth, Texas during the late afternoon of May 7. The inset in the upper right shows the Doppler velocity of the storm.
Hail as large as baseballs in the road while penetrating the supercell core near Seymour, Texas late on May 7.
Hail stones on the top hail guards, viewed out the "skylight" windows of my Jeep Wrangler while penetrating the supercell core near Seymour, Texas.
Weakening funnel cloud / tornado just on the edge of the supercell core near Seymour, Texas. This was after a very brief view of it, which is just to the right in the center of this picture.
View of funnel cloud after punching out of the supercell core near Seymour, Texas.
View of inflow side of the powerful supercell storm near Seymour, Texas around dusk on May 7. The view is to the northeast.

GALLERY FOR MAY 8-12, 2020

Hail damage to the hood of my Jeep Wrangler, from the May 7 storm, while traveling during off-time on May 8.

GALLERY FOR MAY 13, 2020

May 13 was a chase day with a target area in the eastern Texas panhandle. The left image above shows an enhanced-risk outlook as per SPC at 1630z, with both wind and hail probabilities at 30 percent, the latter hatched for significant. Tornado probabilities were from 2% (revised from 5% on the 13z outlook). The middle image shows MCD 575 issued for the target area, with subsequent severe thunderstorm watch box 175, valid until 10 PM CDT, in the image to the right.

Storm chasers, including Marcus Diaz, on the north side of Canadian, Texas, watching the storms initiate along the dryline to the west during the afternoon of May 13.
Small low precipitation (LP) supercell developing along a bulge in the dryline north of Canadian, Texas during the afternoon of May 13.
Storm chasers along the side of the road north of Canadian, Texas during the afternoon of May 13.
Annotated visible satellite image as of 23z on May 13, showing the synoptic setup as well as the storm evolution at the time in and around the target area in the Texas Panhandle.
View of a small high-based supercell crossing from Texas into Oklahoma during the afternoon of May 13. Note the striations of the weakening storm, as well as the low level mesocyclone to the left.
View of a developing LP supercell storm near Sayre, Oklahoma during the afternoon of May 13.
Base reflectivity radar image of a splitting LP supercell storm east of Sayre, Oklahoma after 23z.
Hail shaft associated with the right split of an LP supercell storm east of Sayre, Oklahoma during the afternoon of May 13.
Down-scaling (shrinking) of the right split of an LP supercell storm east of Sayre, Oklahoma during the evening of May 13. In this case the updraft tower "shrivels" leaving a persistent anvil overhead.

GALLERY FOR MAY 14, 2020

May 14 had a target area in eastern Kansas from Emporia to Topeka. The left image above shows the slight-risk outlook as per SPC at 13z, with both wind and hail probabilities at 15 percent, and tornado probabilities 5% in a large area extending from Kansas to Illinois. The target area is annotated in the left image. The middle image shows MCD 584 issued for the target area. To the right, is severe thunderstorm watch box 182, valid until 12 AM CDT the next day.

View of anvil of a developing supercell storm near Emporia, Kansas late in the day on May 14. The view is to the south.
Annotated visible satellite image (around 23z) of the chase target area over NE to eastern Kansas on May 14, with important synoptic features around the area pointed out.
View of updraft region and developing RFD (rear flank downdraft) on a classic to LP supercell north of Emporia, Kansas late in the day on May 14. The view is to the west.
View of RFD clear slot on a classic to LP supercell north of Emporia, Kansas late in the day on May 14. The view is to the northwest.
Base reflectivity image of the supercell storm north of Emporia, Kansas on May 14. The inset to the lower left shows the weak Doppler velocity associated with the storm.
Wall cloud with RFD on a down-scaling classic to LP supercell north of Emporia, Kansas late in the day on May 14. The view is to the NNW.
View towards another area of supercell storms to the southwest of Salina, Kansas around dusk on May 14. A large wall cloud can be seen under the main updraft of the storm to the lower left. The view is to the WNW.
View looking east at the backside of severe thunderstorms in east-central Kansas after dusk on May 14.

GALLERY FOR MAY 15, 2020

May 15 was a chase day in northeastern Colorado, targeting the Palmer Divide area for up-slope wind flow. In the images above, the 13z SPC outlook shows multiple slight and enhanced-risk areas. Besides the area in the northeastern USA, there was an enhanced area in Texas and Oklahoma, and a slight risk in NE Colorado. I chose the latter since it would be more isolated supercell storms, not a messy MCS and outflow dominant storms than the enhanced area over Texas. In the middle image is MCD 601 issued for storm development in NE Colorado. No watch was needed. To the right is a base reflectivity image of a supercell storm over the Palmer Divide near El Paso County in Colorado during its mature stages.

Annotated visible satellite image of the synoptic setup, as well as storm evolution during the afternoon of May 15. The actual target area was in the up-slope area of NE Colorado, near the Palmer Divide.
View of storms developing near the Palmer Divide during the afternoon of May 15. The view is to the northwest from I-70, near Limon, Colorado.
Developing supercell storm near Simla / Matheson, Colorado during the afternoon of May 15. The view is to the west and southwest.
Rain-free base and UDI (updraft-downdraft interface) of a supercell storm near Calhan, Colorado during the late afternoon of May 15. The view is to the northwest.
Low-level mesocyclone (center and right) associated with the classic supercell storm near Calhan, Colorado during the afternoon of May 15. The view is to the NNW.
Area of rotation and wall cloud, funnel, and RFD clear-slot near Calhan, Colorado during the evening of May 15.
The supercell storm near Calhan, Colorado begins moving east and evolving into a line segment during the evening of May 15. The view is to the northwest.
Inflow banding into the weakening high-based supercell / line segment during the evening of May 15. The view is to the west.

GALLERY FOR MAY 16, 2020

Some convection getting organized close to SW Iowa during the afternoon of May 16. This was a marginal day and chasing was not planned, although a supercell eventually formed in this area and eastward.
Visible satellite image, annotated showing any important features, for the highly marginal setup on May 16. A small supercell has developed by 23z near the convergence area in SW Iowa / SE Nebraska.
Although not chasing on this day, a small and brief tornado-warned supercell storm developed south of Omaha late in the day on May 16. There were no tornadoes with this storm.

GALLERY FOR MAY 17, 2020

May 17 was a marginal chase day in central to northeastern Illinois. In the images above, the 13z SPC outlook is to the left, with a 5% tornado probability. The area targeted was in the northern portion of this tornado probability area. In the middle image is MCD 620 issued by the SPC for the area, and severe thunderstorm watch 192, valid until 10 PM CDT to the right.

Annotated visible satellite image (around 21z) of the synoptic setup on May 17, as well as storm evolution during that afternoon. The target area was in north-central Illinois.
A linear / multicell storm mode was the way storms evolved in north-central Illinois during the afternoon of May 17.
Base reflectivity of storms over north-central Illinois during the late afternoon of May 17. The lower-right inset shows an area of rotation as shown by the Doppler velocity to the yellow line correlates the area of rotation (in the velocity inset) to that in the base reflectivity image.
Area of rotation within a line segment near Forrest, Illinois during the late afternoon of May 17.
Flooded field and farmstead in north-central Illinois during the evening of May 17.
Flooded street in a small town in north-central Illinois during the evening of May 17.
Rainbow reflecting over a flooded field in north-central Illinois around sunset on May 17.

GALLERY FOR MAY 18-20, 2020

Severe flooding in Wheaton, Illinois during the week of May 17. A car floats in the street during a flash flood in this picture around midnight, and persisted into May 18.
Flooded residence in Wheaton, Illinois early on May 18. A man here is dealing with a flooded yard, garage, and basement.

GALLERY FOR MAY 21, 2020

May 21 was a chase day in SW Kansas, with a triple-point type low pressure system. In the images above, the 13z SPC outlook is to the left, with a 5% tornado probability shown over SW Kansas. In the middle image is MCD 657 issued by the SPC for the area, and severe thunderstorm watch 198, valid until 10 PM CDT to the right.

Storm chaser John Moon and myself meeting up in Liberal, Kansas and getting ready to chase to the north and northwest of town on May 21.
Convective initiation to the west of Ulysses, Kansas during the afternoon of May 21.
A powerful MCS (cluster of severe thunderstorms) pushes eastward towards Syracuse, Kansas during the late afternoon of May 21. Note the green color, as this complex of storms had hail larger than baseballs. The view is to the southwest.
Annotated visible satellite image of the storms and synoptic setup at around 23z on May 21. The target area is in southwest Kansas.
Another supercell storm explosively develops to the southeast and becomes the main target storm. The view here is to the southeast from near Syracuse, Kansas during the late afternoon of May 21.
Approaching a developing classic to HP supercell to the south of Lakin, Kansas during the late afternoon of May 21. The view is to the west.
Extremely severe and tornadic HP supercell south of Lakin, Kansas during the late afternoon of May 21. A possible tornado is barely visible to the lower right of the storm under the base.
Base reflectivity radar image of the later stages of the Lakin tornadic supercell as it began merging into an MCS approaching from the west. The inset to the upper-right shows the Doppler velocity of the storm.
View into the notch of the HP supercell near Lakin, Kansas, showing a possible tornado, just left of the center of the picture. The view is to the southwest during the late afternoon of May 21.
Another view of the leading edge of the wet RFD region, and intense rotation, associated with the Lakin, Kansas storm during the evening of May 21. The view is to the south, showing the impressive "stacked plates" or "mothership" presentation of the supercell.
View of another supercell storm from a truck stop near Sublette, Kansas towards Satanta during the evening of May 21. The view is to the west, showing the impressive structure and "barber pole" / "stacked plates" structure of this supercell.

GALLERY FOR MAY 22, 2020

May 22 was a chase day near the Red River in north-central Texas and south-central Oklahoma. In the images above, the 20z SPC outlook is to the left, with a 5% tornado probability shown over the target area in Texas / Oklahoma. In the middle image is MCD 668 issued by the SPC for the area, and severe thunderstorm watch 203, valid until 8 PM CDT to the right.

Convective initiation starting over the Red River southwest of Frederick, Oklahoma during the afternoon of May 22. The view is to the southwest.
Annotated visible satellite image at roughly 23z during the late afternoon of May 22. This is a very complicated synoptic setup, with a powerful upper-level-low over north-central Kansas / southern Nebraska offering a "cold core" setup with a surface low beneath it. Some supercells with weak, brief tornadoes, formed in this area. The more thermodynamic target area was south along the Red River in north-central Texas / southern Oklahoma, owing to dryline / boundary interactions ahead of the dry slot of the mid level low to the north.
Supercell storm intensifying and beginning to split, with the right-mover becoming the main storm, during the afternoon of May 22. The view is to the north near Davidson, Oklahoma.
Radar (base reflectivity) image of the intensifying Supercell storm along the Red River near Grandfield, Oklahoma and turning southeastward during the afternoon of May 22. Note the northern split of the storm developing, with the right split to become the main storm. The inset to the upper-right shows the Doppler velocity of the storm.
A weak tornado develops on the intensifying supercell storm as it is between Grandfield, Oklahoma and Wichita Falls, Texas. The view is to the WSW on May 22 during the late afternoon.
Closer view of a weak tornado, with ground circulation below a funnel, looking west from near Devol, Oklahoma during the late afternoon on May 22.
View of the supercell storm as it was over Burkburnett, Texas during the late afternoon on May 22. The view is looking to the north and northwest just as it was producing extremely large hail, approaching 6" in diameter!
Powerful RFD (rear flank downdraft) with the supercell storm as is was passing near Shepard AFB in Clay County on May 22. Powerlines are down and blocking the road, with a possible funnel behind the RFD clear slot visible just left of the center of this picture above the ground. The view is to the NNW.
Landspout type tornado on the leading edge of the powerful storm mesocyclone / RFD during the late afternoon of May 22 east of Shepard AFB in Clay County.
View of possible weak tornado over rural areas of Clay County, Texas during the evening of May 22. The view is to the north.
The core of the weakening supercell passes over the small town of Petrolia, Texas after dark on May 22. Hail as large as baseballs, with 70 MPH winds, is pummeling the area.
This is a picture of a hailstone from a resident of Burkburnett, Texas after the May 22 storm. The hail punched clear through the roof of their home. The hailstone was probably around 6" in diameter before it melted in this picture. This image is from the Weather Underground site.
This is a radar image showing the echo tops as the storm was dropping record-breaking hail near Burkburnett, Texas on May 22. The top of this supercell is in the near-space environment of the lower stratosphere, exceeding 65,000 feet (almost 20 km) - Which is double the cruising altitude of a commerical jet airliner! Imagine the view of the overshooting top of this storm, with a solid white cloud against a dark, nearly black / midnight-blue sky, and the curve of the earth visible?

GALLERY FOR MAY 23, 2020

May 23 was a frustrating, long-range chase day in northern Illinois. In the images above, the 13z SPC outlook is to the left, with a 10% tornado probability shown over the target area from the Iowa border and into Illinois. In the middle image is MCD 680 issued by the SPC for the area, and tornado watch box 207, valid until 8 PM CDT to the right.

Annotated visible satellite image at roughly 21z during the afternoon of May 23. The area of interest is from eastern Iowa and into NW Illinois, where surface convergence is maximized, and winds backed, ahead of a dry punch east of a weakening stacked surface / upper level low.
View of a low-topped supercell storm just east of the Illinois / Iowa border during the early afternoon of May 23, while trying to catch up with the storms.
Base reflectivity radar image of a small Supercell storm south of Pecatonica during the afternoon of May 23. The inset to the upper-right shows the Doppler velocity of this supercell storm.
Approaching a supercell storm south of Pecatonica during the afternoon of May 23. The view is to the north and the low-level mesocyclone is intensifying to the upper-right. Note the RFD clear slot as well.
Area of strong rotation with rotating wall cloud and funnel in a supercell storm southwest of Rockford, Illinois and near Pecatonica during the afternoon of May 23. The view is to the northeast.
Broad and brief tornado in an area of strong rotation forms with a supercell storm west of Rockford, Illinois during the afternoon of May 23. The view is to the northwest.
Brief tornado north of Beloit, Wisconsin during the afternoon of May 23. The view is to the northwest before it became rain-wrapped.
Developing brief tornado north of Beloit, Wisconsin and near Clinton during the afternoon of May 23 as a CG bolt of lightning strikes through the circulation. The view is looking to the southeast at close range.

GALLERY FOR MAY 24, 2020

May 24 was a marginal chase day targeting SW Iowa and NW Missouri. In the images above, the 13z SPC outlook is to the left, with my target area annotated. Within this large slight-risk area, tornado probabilities were 2%, with wind and hail both 15%, the latter hatched for significant. The target area was in the northern extend of this outlook area, owing to a convective vortex moving out of NE Kansas. In the middle image is MCD 704 issued by the SPC for the area, and severe thunderstorm watch box 217, valid until 8 PM CDT to the right.

Annotated visible satellite image for around 22z on May 24. The main target area is highly marginal and in SW Iowa and NW Missouri.
Base reflectivity radar image of storms developing in SW Iowa and NW Missouri on May 24 in the afternoon. The main storm is the "tail-end Charley" supercell storm on the southern portion of this line segment. Weak Doppler velocity is shown in the inset to the upper-right.
Approaching the line segment and tail-end southern storm near Daviess County, Missouri during the afternoon of May 24. The view is to the south.
Storm wall cloud just prior to being under-cut by outflow in Daviess County, Missouri during the afternoon of May 24. The view is to the SSE.
The area in northwest Missouri and southwest Iowa is home to a substantial Amish population. In this picture, a horse-drawn buggy is along the side of the road during a heavy rain as storms weaken.

GALLERY FOR MAY 25, 2020

May 25 was a highly marginal and conditional chase day in central to eastern Iowa, owing to a weak MCV moving across the state. In the images above, the 1630z SPC tornado probabilities, at 2%, are to the left, with my target area annotated. The distant 5% in Texas was of no interest, due to a convectively overturned environment, and outflow pushing into the US / Mexican border. The areas in the slight / marginal risks ranged from 5% to 15% for hail and wind (hail significant in Texas). In the middle image is MCD 725 issued by the SPC for the area. No watch was needed for the MCD area and north of there. The annotated image to the right shows storms firing in central and eastern Iowa as per the 23z visible satellite channel.

Convective initiation of strong thunderstorms in central Iowa during the afternoon of May 25. These storms were high-based and did not last very long.
Rainbow below high-based weakening storms west of Cedar Rapids, Iowa late in the day on May 25. The view is to the east.
Base reflectivity radar image of storms in eastern Iowa during the early evening of May 25. This will go on to produce a brief funnel (shown below). Weak Doppler velocity is shown in the inset to the upper-left.
Brief funnel cloud on a thunderstorm to the east of Cedar Rapids, Iowa late in the day on May 25. The view is to the NNW.

GALLERY FOR MAY 26, 2020

May 26 was a chase day in central to northwestern Iowa, owing to low pressure system moving across the state from Kansas to Minnesota along a stationary front and associated confluence line. In the images above, the annotated left image shows the 13z SPC tornado probabilities are at 5%, with my target area in Iowa, pretty much near Des Moines and northward west of I-35. Strangely, hail and wind probabilities were only 5% in this area. In the middle image is MCD 735 issued by the SPC for the area, and subsequent tornado watch box 229, valid until 8 PM CDT, with overlaid radar summary data.

Annotated visible satellite image for around 21z on May 26. The area of interest, mainly for tornadoes, is northeast of a weakening surface low due to confluence and backed low-level flow to the northwest of Des Moines, and northward to the MN border.
Brief view of a tornado in Polk County, Iowa (NW of Des Moines) during the afternoon of May 26. The view is to the north west.
Wall cloud and RFD area of a small supercell storm near Ortega, Iowa during the afternoon of May 26. A developing tornado is just left of the center of this picture. The view is to the northwest.
Base reflectivity radar image (with Doppler velocity) inset during the afternoon of May 26. This was a small supercell storm in a cluster of strong and severe storms, near Ortega, Iowa.
Cone tornado roping out near Ortega, Iowa during the afternoon of May 26. No damage was done. The view is to the west.
Area of low-level rotation with a thunderstorm near Garner, Iowa on May 25. The view is to the west and northwest.
Brief funnel cloud on a thunderstorm near Garner, Iowa on May 25. The view is to the west and southwest.
Wall cloud on a severe thunderstorm near Clear Lake, Iowa on May 25. The view is to the northwest before the storm is being under-cut by outflow and crossing I-35.

GALLERY FOR MAY 27 - JUNE 1, 2020

The time from May 27 through June 1 was down time and was spent in the western Chicago suburbs. In this picture, I am enjoying the first day open after the coronavirus pandemic at the skydiving place in Rochelle, Illinois on May 30.

GALLERY FOR JUNE 2, 2020

June 2 was a chase day after several down days, with a return of severe weather to the northern Midwest. In the images above, an enhanced-risk is shown as per the 20z SPC outlook, with the target area annotated, in the image to the left. The tornado probabilities were from 2% to 5%, with wind and hail both 30%, and both hatched for significant. The middle image shows MCD 783 issued by the SPC, and subsequent severe thunderstorm watch box 229, valid until 12 AM CDT the next day, in the right image.

Annotated visible satellite image for around 23z on June 2. The area of interest is in southwestern Minnesota, owing to a weak low pressure area and frontal system.
Convective initiation to the west of Mankato, Minnesota during the afternoon of June 2. The "turkey tower" (tall towering cumulus cloud) here signifies the breaking of a cap, after which explosive thunderstorm development may occur.
A developing supercell storm rapidly forms to the west of Mankato, Minnesota during the late afternoon of June 2.
Hail from quarter to golfball sized bouncing in the grass south of Mankato, Minnesota with a severe supercell storm during the late afternoon of June 2.
Strong winds and tree debris between Mankato and Mapleton, Minnesota during the late afternoon of June 2.
A brief tornado, most likely a large gustnado, between Mankato and Mapleton, Minnesota during the late afternoon of June 2.
Radar (base reflectivity) image of a supercell storm in SW Minnesota during the late afternoon of June 2. The Doppler velocity of this storm is shown in the upper-left inset. Another interesting feature is a "hail spike" protruding southwest from the storm core on the reflectivity image, caused by the radar beam bouncing off large hail and the ground.
View of powerful RFD with funnel / possible tornado to the far left as a supercell storm pushes southeastward towards Mapleton, Minnesota during the afternoon of June 2. The view is to the east and northeast.
The supercell storm evolves from HP to a powerful line segment northwest of Albert Lea, Minnesota during the early evening of June 2. The view is to the northwest.

GALLERY FOR JUNE 3, 2020

June 3 was a low-end slight-risk chase day in the north-central Nebraska sand-hills. In the left image above, a large slight-risk area is shown as per the 1630z SPC outlook, with the target area annotated. The tornado probabilities were 2%, with wind and hail both 15%, and the hail hatched for significant. The middle image shows MCD 795 issued by the SPC, and subsequent severe thunderstorm watch box 243, valid until 7 PM CDT, in the right image.

Visible satellite image for around 23z, with annotations showing the target region and synoptic setup for June 3.
Convective initiation looking northwest from Highway 83 north of North Platte and south of Valentine, Nebraska during the afternoon of June 3. A developing supercell storm is visible over the horizon.
Radar (base reflectivity) image of a supercell storm with very large hail in Cherry County, Nebraska during the afternoon of June 3. The "white" is extremely intense radar returns, in excess of 70 dBz. The insets to the upper-right shows any Doppler velocity in the storm, with a vertically integrated liquid (VIL) in excess of 80 below that.
View of the supercell storm becoming outflow dominant west of Highway 83 in Cherry County, Nebraska during the mid to late afternoon of June 3.
View of the approaching core of the Cherry County, Nebraska supercell during the afternoon of June 3. A dust plume / gustnado can be seen in the center of the picture.
Marble sized hail covering the ground as the area is glanced by the weakening core of the Cherry County, Nebraska supercell during the afternoon of June 3.

GALLERY FOR JUNE 4, 2020

June 4 was a chase day in the west-central parts of South Dakota. In the left image above, a 5% tornado probability is shown on the 1630z SPC outlook. This was part of a small enhanced-risk area, with wind 15% and hail 30% (hatched for significant). The middle image shows MCD 817 issued by the SPC, and subsequent severe thunderstorm watch box 252, valid until 11 PM CDT (10 PM MDT), in the right image.

Visible satellite image for around 22z, with annotations showing the target region in central to western South Dakota and synoptic setup for June 4.
Start of a long-range intercept of a supercell storm moving towards the southeast and eventually into Faith, South Dakota. The view is to the north near the Rapid City Doppler radar site on June 4.
View of an outflow-dominant supercell storm moving near Faith, South Dakota. The view is to the northeast during the afternoon of June 4.
Small funnel / rotating wall cloud south of Faith, South Dakota before being undercut by outflow. Note the hail core to the left. The view is to the east during the afternoon of June 4.
Base reflectivity radar image of a supercell storm approaching Faith, South Dakota during the afternoon of June 4. Note the "white" returns, in excess of 70 dBz. The inset to the upper-right shows the Doppler velocity in the storm.
Another powerful supercell storm passes to the south of Wall, South Dakota over the Badlands, after pummeling Rapid City with large hail. The view is to the south from I-90 during the evening of June 4.
Partially melted hail picked up from the ground on the eastern side of Rapid City, SD during the evening of June 4. The inset shows a picture of an actual stone with the internal "ring" structure.

GALLERY FOR JUNE 5, 2020

June 5 was an off day spent in Rapid City South Dakota, and included a trip to Mount Rushmore.
Despite being an off day, a "surprise" supercell forms in east-central Wyoming and crosses into extreme NW Nebraska near the SD border late in the day on June 5. This is the visible satellite for 0z on (UTC on June 6), or during the late afternoon of June 5.

GALLERY FOR JUNE 6, 2020

June 6 was a chase day in the west-central to NW area of South Dakota. In the annotated left image above, an enhanced risk is issued by the SPC as of 13z, with the target area indicated. This area also had a 5% tornado probability, with wind and hail both 30% (bot hatched for significant). This area was later upgraded to a moderate risk, owing to a 45% extreme wind probability on the SPC 100z outlook. The middle image shows MCD 856 issued by the SPC, and subsequent severe thunderstorm watch box 264, valid until 1 AM CDT (12 AM MDT) the following day, in the right image.

Passing through Sturgis, South Dakota and seeing the "Top Throttle" Saloon northeast of town while heading towards the target area during the early afternoon of June 6.
Annotated visible satellite showing important areas of interest after 23z towards the late afternoon of June 6.
View looking west near Mud Butte, South Dakota as a powerful derecho / MCS approaching rapidly from the west during the evening of June 6.
Incredible sculpted shelf cloud associated with a powerful LEWP (line echo wave pattern) at the leading edge a derecho / MCS in Butte County, South Dakota during the evening of June 6.
Base reflectivity radar image of the surging MCS / derecho (extreme straight-line winds) during the late afternoon of June 6. The Doppler velocity is shown in the inset to the upper right.
Backside of the shelf cloud (with "whale's mouth feature) on the leading edge of the derecho / MCS passing over Butte County, South Dakota during the evening of June 6. The view is to the SSE.
Extreme winds (gusts with this derecho / MCS exceeded 100 MPH in some areas) northwest of Faith, South Dakota during the late evening of June 6. The view is to the north.

GALLERY FOR JUNE 7, 2020

June 7 was a frustrating chase day in northeastern North Dakota and Northwest Minnesota. In the image to the left, the 20z SPC tornado outlook is shown, with a 10% hatched (significant) area over my target area, and a 5% extending southwestward into South Dakota. Whatever tornadoes developed would be in central South Dakota and northeastward, well away from my target area to the north. Both wind and hail probabilities were at 30%, also hatched for significant. The middle image is MCD 869 issued by the SPC. The right image is tornado watch box 267, valid until 9 PM CDT.

Annotated visible satellite (around 20z) showing important areas of interest during the afternoon of June 7. The main target area was in extreme eastern North Dakota and NW Minnesota, with a warm front oriented NW to SE ahead of a weak surface low and trough. Another potential area for storms is in north-central to NE South Dakota.
View looking northeast at the warm front (band of low clouds along the horizon) from eastern North Dakota towards the Minnesota border during the afternoon of June 7. This boundary will be the focus for storms later in the afternoon.
Convective initiation of storms east of the north Red River in NW Minnesota and east of the North Dakota border during the afternoon of June 7. The high amount of shear in the atmosphere causes the towering cumulus clouds to be highly tilted with the strong winds / jet stream aloft. The view is to the north.
Base reflectivity radar image during the afternoon of June 7 for NW Minnesota / east of the N Red River in extreme NE North Dakota. The Doppler velocity is shown in the inset to the upper left.
Developing wall cloud with a supercell storm near Kennedy, Minnesota during the afternoon of June 7. The view is to the northwest.
Rotating wall cloud near Kennedy, Minnesota during the afternoon of June 7. The view is to the west.
Powerful winds kicking up dust and gustnadoes after dusk while heading south along I-29 towards Fargo, North Dakota as an MCS pushes through on June 7. The view is to the south.

GALLERY FOR JUNE 8, 2020

June 8 was a chase day in central Nebraska. In the image to the left, the 13z SPC tornado outlook is shown, with a 5% area and my target area annotated. Both wind and hail probabilities were at 30%, with the hail outlook hatched for significant. The middle image is MCD 882 issued by the SPC. The right image is severe thunderstorm watch box 272, valid until 2 AM CDT the following day.

Annotated visible satellite (after 23z to 0z the next day) showing convective trends and important areas of interest during the evening of June 8. In this complex forecast, the main target area was in central Nebraska ahead of a weak surface low and within a convergence area. Another potential area for storms is in extreme NW Minnesota in a similar area as the prior day, but with storms moving quickly into Canada.
Greg Ansel (center) and his group along Highway 188 in central Nebraska (near Bassett) during the afternoon of June 8.
Passing some flooded homes in the Nebraska Sandhills off Highway 183 on June 8.
Storms begin initiating near and west of Taylor, Nebraska during the late afternoon of June 8. Here a towering cumulus cloud explosively develops as the capping inversion is breached.
Wall cloud on a weakly rotating storm near Brewster, Nebraska during the late afternoon of June 8. The view is to the north. The main "tail-end" storm is farther south and southwest towards Arnold.
Approaching a tornadic supercell at the tail-end (southern portion) of a storm cluster during the early evening of June 8. The view is to the southwest. A possible tornado is visible just above the horizon and right of the grain bin in this picture.
Close-up (zoomed in) view of possible tornado when approaching the Arnold, Nebraska tornadic supercell during the early evening of June 8. The view is to the southwest.
Another view of a possible tornado (just left of the center of the picture) near Arnold, Nebraska looking to the southwest into a tornadic supercell during the early evening of June 8.
Base reflectivity radar image during the evening of June 8 in central Nebraska. The Doppler velocity is shown in the inset to the upper right. This image shows the powerful tornadic supercell near Arnold, Nebraska.
Powerful supercell and tornado-cyclone near Arnold, Nebraska during the afternoon of June 8. This storm had an incredible visual presentation. The stream-wise vorticity current (or "rotor") can also be seen to the far right. The view is to the south and SSW.
Another view looking south from inside the inflow "notch" of the supercell and tornado-cyclone near Arnold, Nebraska during the afternoon of June 8.
View inside the "bear's cage" of the storm, with rapidly rotating clouds (center_ and giant hail (to the far right) approaching. The wet RFD (to the left) has almost completely made it around the tornado-cyclone core and will soon obscure this view. The view is to the south during the evening of June 8 near Arnold, Nebraska.
Gustnado / weak tornado passing over the farmland just north of the RFD area and under the main updraft near Arnold, Nebraska late on June 8, just as the storm was becoming outflow dominant and weakening. The view is to the southeast.

GALLERY FOR JUNE 9, 2020

June 9 was a chase day in north-central Kansas and part of Nebraska. In the image to the left, the 13z SPC tornado outlook is shown, with a 10% area and my target area annotated. The wind probability was 15%, and hail at 30%, with the hail outlook hatched for significant. The other 5% area farther east was associated with the remnants of a tropical system and was of no interest in this case. The middle image is MCD 889 issued by the SPC. The right image is tornado watch box 273, valid until 10 PM CDT.

Annotated visible satellite (around 20z) showing important areas of interest during the afternoon of June 9. The main target area was in north-central to NE Kansas / SE Nebraska in a confluence area east of a surface low.
A cold front is noted pushing east and southeast of Grand Island, Nebraska during the late morning of June 9. The view here is to the east along I-80.
Many storm chasers gather at the Love's truck stop just north of Lebanon, Kansas during the early afternoon of June 9.
Myself putting on the Jeep front hail guards at a Love's truck stop just north of Lebanon, Kansas during the early afternoon of June 9.
Storms initiating during the afternoon of June 9 in north-central to NE Kansas during the early afternoon.
A supercell storm intensifying while heading east on Highway eastward and approaching Marysville, Kansas during the afternoon of June 9.
Base reflectivity radar image during the late afternoon of June 9 in north-central to NE Kansas. A line of supercells is shown developing along a confluence line oriented WNW to SE. The Doppler velocity is shown in the inset to the lower left, with a line matching that area to the supercell in the base reflectivity image.
Let the "frustration" begin. The entire caravan of chasers is stopped by a lengthy construction roadblock with a pilot car in use - And we get there JUST AS the lucky few ahead of us got through it (when approaching Marysville, Kansas) during the afternoon of June 9. Construction delays and closed roads plagued this chase day, along with bad road networks later near the Missouri River. Chaser John Moon in this picture is obviously not happy either.
A tornado warned, low-topped supercell pushes to the north of Marysville, Kansas during the afternoon of June 9.
Wall cloud developing on a tornado warned supercell later near Falls City, Nebraska during the evening of June 9 The view is to the northeast. Crossing the Missouri River became yet another frustrating challenge when following these storms.
Wall cloud / rotating scud on a weakening supercell storm after crossing the Missouri River and as it neared Oregon, Missouri after dusk on June 9. The view is to the ENE.

GALLERY FOR JUNE 10-19, 2020

The time from June 10 through the 19th was down time and was spent in the western Chicago suburbs. This is a picture of one of the older bridges, and majestic iron work, still standing and in use across the Missouri River in rural America.

GALLERY FOR JUNE 20, 2020

June 20 was a chase day in central Nebraska, ending over a week of down-time. In the image to the left, the 13z SPC convective outlook is shown, with a slight risk, which had a 15% probability for both wind and hail, yet tornado probabilities issued were less than 2%. The southern end of the north slight-risk area is my target area, and is annotated. The middle image is MCD 944 issued by the SPC. The right image is severe thunderstorm watch box 287, valid until 10 PM CDT.

Annotated visible satellite (around 23z) showing important areas of interest and convective evolution during the late afternoon of June 20. The main target area was central Nebraska in a confluence area east of a surface low and along a trough axis. Although not an easy forecast, the Nebraska target area was a good pick given the overall low tornado probabilities.
View looking west towards the central Nebraska target area during the afternoon of June 20. Convective initiation is underway as upper level support / large scale ascent approaches the area, eroding the capping inversion, with agitated towering cumulus on the horizon and some small showers and thunderstorms (anvil forming).
A powerful supercell develops near Purdum, Nebraska and north of Halsey during the afternoon of June 20. The view is to the north.
View looking northeast south of Purdum, Nebraska at the main mesocyclone of the supercell storm on June 20. A rotating wall cloud and developing RFD can be seen here.
A funnel develops as the mesocyclone occludes. This is south of Purdum, Nebraska and north of Halsey during the afternoon of June 20. The RFD occlusion is causing a stretch in the vorticity, like an ice skater bringing in his (or her) arms, and spinning up. The view is to the NNE.
With continued stretching of the rotation, a brief rope tornado becomes visible to the north of Halsey, Nebraska during the afternoon of June 20. The view is to the north.
A brief second tornado develops northeast of Dunning, Nebraska on the south end of a powerful supercell during the late afternoon of June 20. This was the second (eastern) cycle of this storm.
Base reflectivity radar image during the late afternoon of June 20 in central Nebraska. Two powerful and possible tornadic supercells area shown, with a yellow line pointing out the area of the Doppler velocity insets to the left. The northern storm is the supercell that produced tornadoes north of Halsey and near Dunning, and the southern one an LP supercell that produced funnel clouds near Callaway / Broken Bow.
Wall cloud of a beautiful LP supercell between Callaway and Broken Bow, Nebraska during the early evening of of June 20. The view is to the west.
Mid level shear funnel associated with an LP supercell between Callaway and Broken Bow, Nebraska during the early evening of of June 20. The view is to the southwest.
Another funnel, half-way to the ground, associated with the LP supercell west of Broken Bow, Nebraska during the early evening of of June 20. The view is to the WSW.
This is a view of the beautiful LP supercell undergoing downscaling east of Broken Bow, Nebraska during the early evening of June 20. The view is to the NNW.
Final view of the LP supercell undergoing further downscaling east of Broken Bow, Nebraska during the evening of June 20. The view is to the WNW.

GALLERY FOR JUNE 21, 2020

June 21 was a chase day with two potential targets, one in east-central Nebraska, and the other in SW Kansas. The latter was chosen. In the image to the left, the 1630z SPC convective outlook is shown, with a moderate risk area bulls-eyed over SW Kansas. The moderate risk was mainly for wind and hail probabilities, which were both 45%, and hatched for significant. The tornado probabilities issued were only 5% in the moderate risk area, as well as another 5% area over east-central Nebraska. The middle image is MCD 953 issued by the SPC. The right image is severe thunderstorm watch box 290, valid until 10 PM CDT.

Annotated visible satellite (around 23z) showing important areas of interest and convective evolution during the late afternoon of June 21. The main target area was originally SE Nebraska but later chosen to be SW Kansas. This was mostly a powerful MCS with some supercells on the "tail end" area of the system in Kansas.
Wall cloud near a storm in north-central to central Kansas during the early afternoon of June 21. This was part of a storm system that produced a landspout tornado earlier near Hoxie, Kansas. The view is to the west.
High altitude winds blowing off the storm tops / anvils and giving the sun a "watery appearance" near SW Kansas during the afternoon of June 21.
Approaching gust front of a powerful MCS near Dodge City, Kansas during the afternoon of June 21. The view is to the west.
Strong outflow winds kicking up dust near the south end of a powerful MCS south of Dodge City, Kansas during the afternoon of June 21.
Wall cloud of a "tail-end Charley" supercell storm to the northeast of Liberal, Kansas during the early evening of June 21. The view is to the northwest.
Base reflectivity radar image during the evening of June 21 in SW Kansas. A supercell storm is to the northeast of Liberal, Kansas in this image. The Doppler velocity of this storm is in the inset to the upper right.
View of lightning strike with the TIV (Tornado Intercept Vehicle) in the foreground, while on a supercell storm to the northeast of Liberal, Kansas during the early evening of June 21.
Lightning striking the ground in Beaver County, Oklahoma south of Liberal, Kansas during the evening of June 21. The view is to the east.
Mammatus clouds over the Oklahoma panhandle near dusk during the evening of June 21.

GALLERY FOR JUNE 22, 2020

June 22 was a chase day in the western Texas panhandle area. In the annotated image to the left, the 20z SPC convective outlook is shown, with a large slight risk area over much of Texas. The target area is pointed out in the annotation. In this slight-risk area, the wind and hail probabilities were both 15%, and the hail was hatched for significant. The tornado probabilities issued were less than 2% in the target area. The middle image is MCD 971 issued by the SPC. The right image is severe thunderstorm watch box 295, valid until 11 PM CDT.

This is an annotated visible satellite of the central USA during the morning of June 22, at around 13z. No convection is occurring here (except for a remnant MCS from the prior day), but some synoptic features, such as boundaries and troughs, can be made out via the annotations. The target area of this final chase day is in the western Texas panhandle.
Storm initiate west of the TX / NM border in New Mexico during the afternoon of June 22. This complex will become a high based MCS of severe storms. The view is to the west.
Looking to the northeast, from the TX / NM border, another supercell storm can be seen about 75 miles to the northeast during the afternoon of June 22. This will become the main storm to target after leaving the high based MCS to the west.
Approaching a supercell storm to the northwest of Sunray, Texas during the evening of June 22. The view is to the NNE.
View of inflow region and wall cloud with the supercell storm to the northwest of Sunray, Texas during the evening of June 22. The view is to the northeast.
Base reflectivity radar image of a powerful supercell pushing southeastward (then southward) near Sunray, Texas during the evening of June 22. The Doppler velocity of this storm is shown in the inset to the upper right.
A powerful supercell storm pushes southward west of Sunray, Texas and northeast of Dumas during the evening of June 22. The view is to the west.
Gustnado / possible tornado associated with the supercell storm near Sunray, Texas during the evening of June 22. The view is to the west.

GALLERY FOR JUNE 23-24, 2020

June 23 and 24 were travel days and the end of the chase "expedition" for 2020. In this picture, a developing, high-based severe storm can be seen near Santa Rosa, New Mexico during the early afternoon of June 23.
View of part of the Mojave Desert in eastern California / western Arizona during the trip back on June 24. It was extremely hot, with a high temperature of 118 degrees observed! In the inset, an outside temperature of 115 deg F is shown.

CHASE MAP FOR JULY 12-16, 2020

This is a chase map for the chase from July 12 through July 16, 2020. The chase track is in blue (which includes the driving portions of the trip), and the flight (to and from Los Angeles, California and Denver, Colorado) is in green. The "general" refined target areas appear as yellow outlines for the main chase days, with storm intercepts denoted by the red "X's".

CHASE TRIP CHRONOLOGY FOR JULY 12-16, 2020

This chase trip was a very late / post season endeavor at some storm chasing from the high plains to northern Midwest in the central USA. This trip was July 12 through the 16th, with the 12th being the first travel day of the trip, arriving in Denver, and chasing (in east-central Colorado) commencing right after arrival. After arriving in Denver ahead of schedule, I picked up the rental car (after a LONG wait at the pickup area), a 2020 Mitsubishi Eclipse, and immediately left the area via I-70 and east to the target area between Lamar and Limon, pretty much near Highway 40. This area was in a slight-risk area as per the Storm Prediction Center (SPC), with a 2% tornado, and 15% wind and hail in the probabilities, with the hail hatched for significant. Severe storms were intercepted from SE of Limon to just west of Cheyenne Wells, with a possible brief tornado observed there. The SPC also issued mesoscale discussion (MCD) 1201, and subsequent severe thunderstorm watch box 363, valid until 9 PM MDT. I wrapped up chasing near Cheyenne Wells and headed up Highway 385 until I reached I-76. I headed east from there, and picked up I-80 east, and spent the night in North Platte, Nebraska.

July 13 was a chase day targeting the western to central areas of Nebraska. This day actually had two possible target areas, one in west-central Nebraska, and another distant one in western to NW Minnesota. The latter was too far for it just having a 5% tornado probability, with capping issues, and ultimately did not verify with any significant storms. The Nebraska target area had a 2% tornado probability, with both areas being under an enhanced-risk outlook as per the SPC. By 1630z, the hail and wind probabilities were 15% and 30%, respectively, and both hatched for the Nebraska target area. Since I was already in North Platte, which was in the target area, it was just a matter of waiting until early evening for storms to develop. By late afternoon, the SPC issued MCD 1213 and subsequent severe thunderstorm watch box 366, valid until 12 AM CDT the next day for much of this area. I headed west on I-80 to near Ogallala and Paxton, heading south out of Paxton to SR 23, intercepting a severe storm by evening there. I wrapped up the chase via SR 23 to Highway 83, then north to I-80, taking that east from North Platte. Strong winds (over 80 MPH) struck North Platte as an HP supercell evolved to a line segment. I continued east on I-80, spending the night in Kearney, Nebraska.

July 14 was another chase day requiring a decision to chase in Iowa or Colorado. I chose the latter, which had a 2% tornado outlook in a slight-risk area as per SPC, with hail and wind probabilities both 15%. Iowa had similar probabilities, with a tornado probability up to 5%, but plagued by a surging cold front. With east-central Colorado targeted, I headed out of Kearny via I-80 west, dropping south on Highway 385 out of Julesburg, Colorado. I continued south past I-70 to Cheyenne Wells, then west on Highway 40 to Aroyo, then SR 94 towards a target area near Punkin Center in Lincoln County, Colorado by mid afternoon. The SPC also issued MCS 1223, and subsequent severe thunderstorm watch 369, valid until 9 PM MDT. I chased storms, some tornado warned, from near Rush and Punkin Center, south to Ordway near SR 71 and 96. I wrapped up chasing via SR 71 north to SR 94, and headed west into Colorado Springs for the night.

July 15 was the final day available for chasing for this quick trip, with a target area in central Colorado, not far from yesterdays. The area was under a slight risk outlook as per the SPC, with wind and hail probabilities both at 15%. Tornado probabilities were less than 2%. Meanwhile, in Illinois, an enhanced-risk was in effect, with tornado probabilities up to 5%, but was not applicable for this chase day. I left Colorado Springs late via Highway 24 / SR 94 east to near Yoder. I headed south down Yoder road to Myers Road, chasing some storms in El Paso County. These storms were seen from initiation. The SPC also had much of central Colorado in MCD 1235, and subsequent severe thunderstorm watch 375, valid until 9 PM MDT. After wrapping up storm chasing near I-25 and Wigwam, I headed back north via I-25. I headed into Denver, Colorado, spending the night on the east side of town.

This short chase trip ended on July 16, which was a travel-only day with me leaving Denver via I-70 to the airport, and returning to Los Angeles, California. There were still a few more chase possibilities in some areas for the next few days, but unusually high daily costs of rental cars (despite flights being extremely cheap) made extending the trip not worth it. This trip was the last, futile, attempt at chasing tornadoes in the Spring / early summer of 2020. I also turned in the rental vehicle, a 2020 Mitsubishi Eclipse, which had a total of 1,684 miles.

JULY 12-16 CHASE MAIN PARTICIPANTS

CHASER NAMEHOME / BASE CITYCALLSIGNCHASE DATESOCCUPATION
CHRIS COLLURAGARDEN GROVE, CAKG4PJN7-12 TO 7-16IT CONSULTANT

CUMULATIVE STORM REPORTS FOR JULY 12-16, 2020

This is a comprehensive / cumulative map of all Storm Prediction Center (SPC) storm reports for July 12-16, 2020. In this cumulative storm reports, combining data from 5 images from SPC for each day, a red dot denotes a tornado report, a blue dot a damaging severe wind report (58 MPH and up), and a green dot a severe hail report (1" and larger). Significant wind (65 knots and up) and significant hail (2" and larger) is denoted by a black square and triangle, respectively. There were a total of 599 severe weather reports during this period (consisting of 18 tornado, 457 wind, and 124 hail reports). Out of the wind and hail reports, 8 significant wind and 13 significant hail reports were tabulated during this time period.

DETAILED CHASE LOG FOR JULY 12-16, 2020

1). July 12, 5:00 PM - Interception and observation of a severe thunderstorm in Lincoln County, Colorado along Highway 40, between Hugo and Boyero. The storm was a small classic supercell that evolved to a bow segment and later weakened. The core of the storm contained at least 1" hail, but it was not penetrated. Other conditions encountered were occasional lightning, some rain, and winds gusting near 40 MPH near the storm. Conditions causing the storm were a surface heating, up-slope wind flow, a low pressure trough, and an approaching upper trough. A 2020 Mitsubishi Eclipse was used to chase the storms. Documentation was digital stills and HD time-lapse video. A severe thunderstorm watch was valid for the area until 9 PM MDT.

2). July 12, 6:15 PM - Interception, observation, and penetration of a very severe, and possibly tornadic thunderstorm in Cheyenne County, Colorado, and near Cheyenne Wells along Highways 40 and 385. The storm was a multicell cluster of storms that evolved to a supercell storm, with cloud tops as high as 65,000 feet. Looking to the SE west of Cheyenne Wells, a possible tornado developed, shrouded by rain and appearing as rotating dust. The storm core also had hail up to 2", with some pieces observed at 1" before turning around. The storm also had winds near 70 MPH, frequent lightning, and very heavy rain. Some tree damage and flash flooding was noted near Cheyenne Wells. Conditions causing the storm were a surface heating, up-slope wind flow, a low pressure trough, and an approaching upper trough. A 2020 Mitsubishi Eclipse was used to chase the storms. Documentation was digital stills and audio. A severe thunderstorm watch was valid for the area until 9 PM MDT.

3). July 13, 8:00 PM - Observation, and indirect penetration of a very severe thunderstorm to the southwest and towards North Platte, Nebraska in Lincoln County, south of I-80 and near SR 23 and Highway 83. The storm was a cluster of severe thunderstorms, with a powerful HP storm, then evolved to a line / bow segment. The storm contained hail to golfball sized and winds gusting over 80 MPH. The core was not directly penetrated. Conditions encountered were 70 MPH wind gusts, frequent lightning, and moderate rain. The storm caused tree damage and power outages in North Platte. Conditions causing the storms were surface heating, a low pressure trough, upper trough, and stationary frontal zone. A 2020 Mitsubishi Eclipse was used to chase the storms. Documentation was digital stills. A severe thunderstorm watch was valid for the area until 12 AM CDT (the following day).

4). July 14, 5:30 PM - Observation and indirect penetration of a severe thunderstorm near Rush, Colorado in Lincoln County and west of Punkin Center along SR 94. The storm was a small, classic supercell storm. A rotating wall cloud was noted on the SW side of the supercell before it weakened. The main core was not directly penetrated, and conditions encountered were moderate rain, frequent lightning, 60 MPH winds, and hail up to 1". Conditions causing the storms were surface heating, a low pressure trough, upper trough, and up-slope wind flow. A 2020 Mitsubishi Eclipse was used to chase the storms. Documentation was digital stills, time-lapse video, and audio. A severe thunderstorm watch was valid for the area until 9 PM MDT.

5). July 14, 7:15 PM - Interception, observation, and penetration of a very severe thunderstorm near Ordway, Colorado in Crowley County along SR 71 and 96. The storm was a powerful HP supercell storm. A rotating wall cloud was noted approaching the storm from the north. The storm also produced some brief rain wrapped vortices as it evolved to an MCS and produced strong winds. Conditions encountered were torrential rain, frequent lightning, at least 70 MPH winds, and hail up to 1". Some tree damage and flooding was noted in Ordway as well. Conditions causing the storms were surface heating, a low pressure trough, upper trough, and up-slope wind flow. A 2020 Mitsubishi Eclipse was used to chase the storms. Documentation was digital stills and audio. A severe thunderstorm watch was valid for the area until 9 PM MDT.

6). July 15, 3:15 PM - Observation and indirect penetration of a severe thunderstorm in El Paso County, Colorado, near Myers Road. The storm was an LP supercell that evolved to classic mode, and weakened via down-scaling later on. Conditions encountered were hail from 3/4" to 1", lightning, heavy rains, and 50 MPH wind gusts. Conditions causing the storms were surface heating, a low pressure trough, upper trough, and up-slope wind flow. A 2020 Mitsubishi Eclipse was used to chase the storms. Documentation was digital stills and audio. A severe thunderstorm watch was valid for the area until 9 PM MDT.

7). July 15, 4:30 PM - Observation and indirect penetration of a severe thunderstorm in El Paso County, Colorado, along I-25 and south of Colorado Springs. The storm was a classic to HP supercell that evolved to a line segment. Conditions encountered were hail to 3/4", lightning, torrential rains, and 60 MPH wind gusts. Conditions causing the storms were surface heating, a low pressure trough, upper trough, and up-slope wind flow. A 2020 Mitsubishi Eclipse was used to chase the storms. Documentation was digital stills and audio. A severe thunderstorm watch was valid for the area until 9 PM MDT.

This concludes the chase log for the central US Plains (including chases in Colorado and Nebraska) chase trip for July 12-16, 2020. The summary includes a total of 7 observations, out of which there were 7 severe thunderstorms. 1 possible tornadoes were observed from these severe storms. The main chase vehicle conducting all these chases was a 2020 Mitsubishi Eclipse. Total miles logged was 1,684 miles. This information was prepared exclusively for the National Weather service and the team of Skywarn storm spotters.

GALLERY FOR JULY 12, 2020

July 12 was a chase day with a drive to east-central Colorado after getting into Denver during the early to mid afternoon. In the images above, the SPC forecast is shown to the left, with a slight-risk area over eastern and southeastern Colorado. This area had a 2% tornado probability, with wind and hail at 15% (hail hatched for significant). The plan of the day, time-permitting, was to target east-central Colorado within of the slight-risk area. This area was reached after storm initiation (east of Limon and north of Lamar) and two severe storms were intercepted, one possibly tornadic. In the middle image is the MCD 1201 issued by the SPC for the area, as well as severe thunderstorm watch box 363, valid until 9 PM MDT.

This is an annotated visible satellite image for around 23z on July 12. The important features are shown, with an upper trough and up-slope wind flow over east-central Colorado. The supercell storm being targeted was near Cheyenne Wells.
While flying out from California to Denver and over the Rocky Mountains, the unmistakable and explosive top of a supercell storm (probably near Colorado Springs) punches into the stratosphere and clearly much higher than our 37,000 foot cruising altitude. The view is to the east during the early afternoon of July 12.
One of the most frustrating things is getting in and running to leave the airport (negotiating buses and trains), pick up the rental car, and rush out to the target area - Only to find THIS. Poor customer service and handling at the Avis rental car center (with Payless and Budget combined into the Avis company) causes dozens of people to be stuck in this line. I have Avis Preferred but they could not find my reservation, so I was forced to wait - Up to two hours - To get my rental car. No kiosks either - Terrible. A similar thing happened in May 2013, causing me to miss the Rozel, Kansas tornado by 20 minutes.
Approaching a small supercell storm that is developing near and east of Limon, Colorado while heading east on I-70 towards the target area during the afternoon of July 12.
Another view of the supercell storm moving southeast of Limon, Colorado during the afternoon of July 12. Note the prominent hail shaft (bright precipitation area to the lower left) of the storm. The view is looking ENE.
This is an annotated base reflectivity radar image during the late afternoon of July 12. The inset to the upper-left shows the velocity of the storm, which produced a brief tornado near Cheyenne Wells, Colorado. Although not shown, this storm had echo tops to 68,000 feet!
Approaching another powerful supercell storm near Cheyenne Wells, Colorado during the late afternoon of July 12. A possible weak tornado is also developing under the main updraft along the lower-center of the picture. The view is looking ESE.
Possible weak, dusty tornado becoming rain wrapped to the east of Cheyenne Wells, Colorado during the early evening of July 12.
Hail covers the ground and "hail fog" develops just south of Cheyenne Wells, Colorado during the early evening of July 12.
Severe storms weakening / moving southeast and with tops spreading out into anvils during the evening of July 12. Note the rainbow on the backside of one of the storms cells. The view is to the southeast from near Burlington, Colorado.
Interesting view of Kelvin Helmholtz waves in the mid to high level clouds associated with a portion of the jet stream looking northwest over extreme NE Colorado near Julesburg after dark on July 12.

GALLERY FOR JULY 13, 2020

July 13 was a chase day with two possible targets, one in NW Minnesota, and another in central to western Nebraska. The target area is also annotated. The latter was far and not worth the trip, so I decided to stick to the Nebraska setup. In the images above, an SPC enhanced risk is shown as of 1630z for both regions. In these areas, tornado probabilities were from 2% (in Nebraska) to 5% (in Minnesota). The wind probability was 30%, and hail 15%. The wind and hail outlooks were also hatched (for significant) in Nebraska. The middle image is MCD 1213 issued by the SPC, with subsequent severe thunderstorm watch box 366, valid until 12 AM CDT the next day, to the right.

This is an annotated visible satellite image for after 23z on July 13. This rather complicated setup shows two target areas, one over west-central to NW Minnesota, and another in western to central Nebraska. The latter showing some supercell storms developing, while the Minnesota area - Which looked "good on paper" - Never developed storms due to veering low level winds and a capping inversion.
This is a view of the sky west of Ogallala, Nebraska during the afternoon of July 13. The approaching short wave (upper trough) gives the sky a "chaotic" appearance like this, with anvil blow-off from developing storms and altocumulus castellanus (and rare asperatus) clouds. The view is to the southwest.
Convective initiation takes place over western to SW Nebraska and to the west of Ogallala. Here a severe thunderstorm is developing during the late afternoon of July 13. The view is to the west and northwest.
This is a view of a developing line segment / supercell storm to the southwest of Ogallala, Nebraska during the late afternoon of July 13. The view is to the west. Note the inflow banding from left to right and the wall cloud to the lower right. The green color to the right denotes large hail.
Another view of a developing supercell storm to the south of Ogallala, Nebraska during the early evening of July 13. The view is to the SSW showing the leading edge of the storm and impressive structure.
A brief funnel forms on the updraft base of the supercell storm to the southeast of Ogallala, Nebraska during the early evening of July 13. The powerful RFD is surging from left to right in this picture, as the storm starts becoming outflow dominant (winds gusting over 75 MPH). The view is to the north.
The RFD surges out, forming a bow segment ahead of the supercell storm southeast of Ogallala, Nebraska and southwest of North Platte during the evening of July 13. This is a "book-end vortex", showing an anti-cyclonic (clockwise) flow on the south end of the bow segment (just right of the center of this picture), with the cyclonic (counter-clockwise) flow farther north (far left in this picture) with the main supercell. The view is to the NNE.
This is an annotated base reflectivity radar image during the evening of July 13. This shows the supercell storm nearing North Platte, Nebraska. The inset to the upper-right shows the weak Doppler velocity of the storm. This supercell, as it evolved to a bow segment, would produce winds gusting to nearly 90 MPH in North Platte.
View looking northwest towards a developing HP supercell approaching North Platte in Lincoln County, Nebraska during evening of July 13. This storm would produce wind gusts approaching 90 MPH in North Platte.
Another view looking west towards an HP supercell approaching North Platte, Nebraska during evening of July 13. Note the wall cloud and "wet" RFD punching out to the left of it, forming a shelf cloud.

GALLERY FOR JULY 14, 2020

July 14 was a chase day foregoing any chase in Iowa and traveling to, and targeting east-central Colorado instead. In the images above, an SPC slight risk is shown as of 20z for two areas, including the annotated target area in Colorado. The tornado probabilities in the Colorado target were 2%, with wind and hail both 15%. The middle image is MCD 1223 issued by the SPC, with subsequent severe thunderstorm watch box 369, valid until 9 PM MDT, to the right.

This is an annotated visible satellite image for after 23z on July 14. Another complicated forecast scenario is presented, with a line of storms / supercells in central to NE Iowa, and post-frontal up-slope in central to eastern Colorado.
View looking west towards thunderstorm initiation from Punkin Center, Colorado during afternoon of July 14.
View looking west and southwest towards a supercell thunderstorm between Punkin Center and Rush, Colorado during afternoon of July 14.
Wall cloud and funnel cloud from a supercell thunderstorm between Punkin Center and Rush, Colorado during afternoon of July 14. The view is to the WSW.
This is an annotated base reflectivity radar image during the late afternoon of July 14. Two powerful supercells are over Crowley County, Colorado and are tornado-warned. In the inset to the upper-left, the Doppler velocity is shown, although not particularly strong. The inset to the lower-right is a vertical structure of these supercells, courtesy of Steve Hodanish (Pueblo NWS), with echo tops exceeding 65,000 feet! Also note the prominent BWER (bounded weak echo region) in that image, basically just right of the center of the image, from the eastern supercell.
Approaching an HP supercell thunderstorm (tornado-warned) north of Ordway, Colorado during late afternoon of July 14. The view is to the south. Note the low and rotating wall cloud in the center of the picture. The view is to the south.
View looking south towards a powerful HP supercell north of Ordway, Colorado during late afternoon of July 14. The view is towards the south at the wall cloud / "bear's cage" of the storm, which was one of two tornado-warned supercells at the time.
View looking west on Highway 74 towards Colorado Springs, Colorado after dusk on July 14. The view of 14,120 foot Pikes Peak is absolutely beautiful looking west along this route.

GALLERY FOR JULY 15, 2020

July 15 was a chase day targeting central Colorado. In the images above, an SPC slight risk is shown as of 13z for the target area, which is annotated. The enhanced risk in Illinois was not in the scope of the chase plans, despite a greater chance of tornadoes. The SPC slight risk in Colorado included a 15% risk for wind and hail, with any tornado probabilities less than 2%. The middle image is MCD 1235 issued by the SPC, with subsequent severe thunderstorm watch box 375, valid until 9 PM MDT, to the right.

This is an annotated visible satellite image for around 22z on July 15. The image points out the synoptic setup, with tornado-warned supercells east of an MCV (mesoscale convective vortex) / surface low in Illinois, and up-slope storms in central Colorado.
This is a view of convective initiation to the east and southeast of Colorado Springs, Colorado during the afternoon of July 15. This cloud will quickly develop into a supercell storm. The view is to the ESE.
View of a developing LP supercell storm to the east and southeast of Colorado Springs, Colorado during the afternoon of July 15. The view is to the south.
View of a supercell storm to the southwest of Rush, Colorado and to the east and southeast of Colorado Springs during the afternoon of July 15. The view is to the west. Note the anvil blow-off and inflow from the right to left.
The LP supercell to the east and southeast of Colorado Springs, Colorado evolves to classic mode, then a line segment during the late afternoon of July 15. In this picture, an impressive hail core extends from right to left, with a rain "foot" developing to the left of the precipitation near the ground. The view is to the WNW.
Closer view of the rain "foot" developing to the left of the precipitation core of the supercell east and southeast of Colorado Springs, Colorado during the late afternoon of July 15.
This is an annotated base reflectivity radar image during the afternoon of July 15. Some storms are shown in central Colorado east of Colorado Springs and near Wigwam. The inset to the upper-left shows the Doppler velocity, denoting an intense rain-wrapped circulation (possible QLCS / embedded weak tornado) in one of the storms to the east of Colorado Springs.
Strange small hailstone (conical shaped, like a mini "traffic cone") from a supercell east and southeast of Colorado Springs, Colorado during the late afternoon of July 15.
View of a supercell storm, and low level mesocyclone, north of Pueblo, Colorado (near Wigwam) and south of Colorado Springs during the afternoon of July 15.

GALLERY FOR JULY 16, 2020

This picture was taken while flying out of Denver International Airport and on the way to Los Angeles during the afternoon on July 16. Heavy turbulence is rocking the plane as we punch through elevated showers and thunderstorms over the Rocky Mountains and break out into clear skies above the fast moving clouds (~400 knots).

OTHER CHASES IN 2020

This section is for any other chases and / or storm pictures taken in the central United States / other areas during 2020 These include any chases or observations of storms that were local chases (or trips lasting a single day), but not part of a dedicated / longer chase trip. This included a small chase setup in the California high desert. Details are below.

DETAILED CHASE LOG FOR THIS SECTION (OTHER CHASES)

1). Mar 10, 6:45 PM - Observation of a severe and possible tornadic thunderstorm in Kern County, California, west of Highway 395, and northwest of Boron and north of California City. The storm was part of a cluster of low-topped severe storms, with embedded supercells. The storm observed was a classic to HP supercell storm, and a wall cloud and funnel, possible briefly touching down, was observed looking westward from Highway 395 north of Boron. The core of the storm was not penetrated. Other conditions observed were 30 MPH inflow winds and frequent lightning. The storm were caused by a strong upper-level low pressure area, convergence, boundary interactions, and a surface trough. A 2016 Jeep Wranger was used to chase the storms. Documentation was digital stills.

This concludes the chase log for the central United States and Midwest for ANY OTHER chases in 2020 not part of a special section (especially those for single-day "spot" chase trips). The summary includes a total of 1 observation, out of which there was 1 severe thunderstorm. With this thunderstorm, 1 possible tornado was observed. The main chase vehicle conducting these chases was a 2016 Jeep Wrangler. This information was prepared exclusively for the National Weather service and the team of Skywarn storm spotters.

GALLERY FOR 2020 (OTHER CHASES)

Heading westward along Highway 58 out of Barstow, California and into Kern County on March 10, 2020 during the late afternoon. There is a tornado warned supercell storm that is being intercepted. The storm is low topped, barely above 20,000 feet high, developing ahead of a strong upper-level low pressure system to the southwest near the SW California coast. A glimpse of the overshooting top can be seen just above the center of this picture.
The shallow mesocyclone comes into view, looking westward from Highway 395 to the northeast of Boron, California on March 10. Here a wall cloud and shallow low level mesocylone can be seen.
Brief funnel develops with rapidly rotating scud shortly after the picture of the wall cloud above was taken. I was not able to confirm ground contact due to the terrain. This storm was one of two supercell storms, in the California desert between Boron and California City (Kern County), which is also to the north of Edwards Air force Base. This was March 10.
Radar image (base-reflectivity) of the March 10 Kern County storm at maximum intensity. The inset shows the velocity of the storm.
Frequent lightning after dusk from the low-topped supercell storm in Kern County, California on March 10.
A final shot of the weakening supercell storm over Kern County, California on March 10, illuminated by frequent lightning.

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