MLchartDataset catalogue

Vortex signature

Term · Meteorology and atmospheric science · MLC-T-MET-010064

A distinct pattern on a Doppler weather radar display indicating the presence of a mesocyclone, a rotating updraft within a severe thunderstorm. The signature appears as a compact area of strong inbound velocities adjacent to strong outbound velocities, relative to the radar. A tornadic vortex signature (TVS) is a specific, more intense version of this pattern that indicates a high probability of a tornado.

Table 1. Record
IdentifierMLC-T-MET-010064
FieldMeteorology and atmospheric science
See alsoMesocyclone signature; Tornadic vortex signature
Record as JSON
{
  "id": "MLC-T-MET-010064",
  "term": "Vortex signature",
  "field": "Meteorology and atmospheric science",
  "definition": "A distinct pattern on a Doppler weather radar display indicating the presence of a mesocyclone, a rotating updraft within a severe thunderstorm. The signature appears as a compact area of strong inbound velocities adjacent to strong outbound velocities, relative to the radar. A tornadic vortex signature (TVS) is a specific, more intense version of this pattern that indicates a high probability of a tornado.",
  "see_also": [
    "mesocyclone signature",
    "tornadic vortex signature"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/meteorology/vortex-signature/"
}

Record 10,362 of 10,816 in Meteorology and atmospheric science terminology (MLC-0110). Request the full dataset.