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Post by tornado on May 23, 2019 14:27:10 GMT -5
Drake Field, Fayetteville, Arkansas: METAR KFYV 211953Z 10004KT 3SM +RA BR SCT050 OVC085 18/16 A2959 RMK AO2 PRESFR SLP011 P0005 T01780161 METAR KFYV 211653Z 18007KT 9SM -RA SCT014 BKN070 OVC090 19/18 A2960 RMK AO2 PK WND 20028/1617 RAB04 SLP011 P0036 T01940183 SPECI KFYV 211633Z 20011G19KT 2 1/2SM -RA BR SCT012 BKN022 OVC048 19/18 A2962 RMK AO2 PK WND 20028/1617 RAB04 P0034 T01890183 SPECI KFYV 211625Z 19018G28KT 3/4SM +RA BR SCT017 BKN028 OVC048 20/19 A2962 RMK AO2 PK WND 20028/1617 RAB04 P0034 T02000189 SPECI KFYV 211609Z 20015G25KT 170V240 1 3/4SM +RA SCT029 BKN042 OVC050 22/18 A2959 RMK AO2 VIS 1/2V5 RAB04 P0010 T02220183
There were 2 missed thunderstorms at FYV on May 21st:
Most of the lightning (all of which was within 5 miles of FYV) on the map struck between 1620Z-1625Z. ASOS had 3/4SM +RA at 1625Z, when the code should have been +TSRA in that SPECI. Another bolt struck at 1949Z (yellow-orange plot to E of FYV); ASOS had 3SM +RA BR on the 1953Z METAR, when the code should have been +TSRA BR.
Searcy, Arkansas: METAR KSRC 212256Z AUTO VRB04KT 7SM -RA BKN034 OVC045 17/17 A2970 RMK AO2 WSHFT 2206 LTG DSNT N RAB23 SLP065 P0018 T01720167 SPECI KSRC 212231Z AUTO 27009G19KT 230V310 10SM -RA BKN049 OVC085 21/16 A2969 RMK AO2 WSHFT 2206 LTG DSNT S AND NW RAB23 P0000
TS criteria was met at 2231Z:
ALDARS reported only LTG DSNT.
Grand Junction, Colorado: METAR KGJT 221853Z 16011G21KT 10SM SCT050 SCT070 BKN100 13/02 A2970 RMK AO2 PK WND 17030/1813 SLP026 T01280017 SPECI KGJT 221844Z 14012G25KT 10SM VCTS FEW055 SCT070 BKN095 13/02 A2970 RMK AO2 PK WND 17030/1813 T01280017 METAR KGJT 221753Z 15013G19KT 10SM SCT047 BKN075 OVC090 14/01 A2969 RMK AO2 SLP022 VCSH 60000 T01390011 10139 20061 51003
VCTS was reported for only 9 minutes.
Hartford-Brainard Airport, Connecticut: SPECI KHFD 200513Z AUTO 19005KT 10SM OVC011 21/18 A2988 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT N AND NE RAB0455E08 P0001 T02060183 SPECI KHFD 200502Z AUTO 22005G15KT 9SM VCTS -RA BKN008 OVC013 21/18 A2989 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT NW-NE RAB0455 P0001 T02060183 METAR KHFD 200453Z AUTO 20005G18KT 9SM OVC008 21/18 A2989 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT N AND NW SLP120 T02060183 402500133
VCTS was reported for only 11 minutes.
Southwest Florida International Airport, Fort Myers, Florida: SPECI KRSW 220138Z 24013G17KT 3SM RA BKN035 OVC045 25/20 A2996 RMK AO2 RAB15 P0027 T02500200 SPECI KRSW 220130Z 18014G21KT 1 3/4SM +RA FEW029 OVC035 26/22 A2996 RMK AO2 RAB15 P0018 T02560217 METAR KRSW 220053Z 23005KT 10SM BKN055 28/22 A2993 RMK AO2 SLP133 T02830217
Both bolts struck at 0106Z, meeting VCTS criteria, but no such SPECI was issued.
Joliet, Illinois: METAR KJOT 220515Z AUTO 23004KT 2 1/2SM +RA BKN018 BKN040 OVC060 11/11 A2992 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQS P0023 T01110111 METAR KJOT 220455Z AUTO 15009G24KT 7SM -VCTSRA SCT037 BKN060 OVC110 12/10 A2987 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT SW THRU NW P0003 T01200100
VCTS was reported; TS was warranted:
Lewis University Airport, Romeoville, Illinois: METAR KLOT 220515Z AUTO 26008KT 5SM +VCTSRA SCT024 BKN039 OVC046 11/09 A2993 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT N AND S T01060091 METAR KLOT 220455Z AUTO 11016G22KT 3SM +VCTSRA SCT022 BKN055 OVC110 11/08 A2985 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQS T01140081
VCTS was reported; TS was warranted:
Gary, Indiana: METAR KGYY 220635Z AUTO 20004KT 7SM +RA SCT014 BKN047 OVC055 12/10 A2994 RMK AO2 T01200101 METAR KGYY 220615Z AUTO 21006G20KT 170V250 7SM RA SCT019 BKN055 OVC120 13/09 A2992 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT NW T01310087 METAR KGYY 220555Z AUTO 12015G28KT 10SM RA OVC110 14/07 A2986 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT W T01390073 10139 20130 401390085
LTG DSNT was reported; TS was warranted:
Garden City, Kansas: SPECI KGCK 201526Z 09024G31KT 3SM RA BR BKN004 OVC046 07/06 A2990 RMK AO2 PK WND 09032/1516 LTG DSNT N-SE TSB1455B1456E05E20 TS VC MOV NNE OCNL LTGIC OHD P0012 T00670061 $
A 9-minute thunderstorm was recorded; 2 consecutive TSE times were recorded.
Manhattan, Kansas: METAR KMHK 212252Z 20010G20KT 9SM VCTS -RA SCT030 BKN050 BKN070 18/15 A2930 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT W-N RAB40 SLP919 TS NW MOVG NE P0005 T01830150 SPECI KMHK 212244Z 14015G24KT 100V170 7SM RA SCT022 SCT033 BKN049 18/15 A2929 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT W-N RAB40 PRESFR TS W MOVG NE P0005 T01830150 SPECI KMHK 212235Z VRB06KT 10SM VCTS SCT018 BKN023 BKN030 18/15 A2930 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT W-N TS W MOVG NE T01830150
A lightning strike within 3 miles of MHK at 2238Z, didn’t result in ALDARS reporting TS or
changing VCTS to TS (even though LAWRS had TS W in remarks):
New Century Aircenter, Olathe, Kansas:
The 4 lightning strikes nearest to the airport are plotted on the map. Let’s begin with the first, which is plotted in blue, east of the runways at 0033Z.
SPECI KIXD 210051Z 06015G31KT 2SM TSRA BR SCT008 OVC034 09/08 A2988 RMK AO2 PK WND 05033/0019 LTG DSNT E-SW TSB45 TS S MOV NE P0030 $ SPECI KIXD 210044Z 05018G31KT 2 1/2SM VCTS RA BR SCT008 BKN034 09/08 A2986 RMK AO2 PK WND 05033/0019 LTG DSNT E-SW P0026 T00890078 $
So that bolt didn’t result in VCTS changing to TS. That did happen eventually, but not until 0045Z. The next bolt, plotted in purple SW of the end of runway 4/22, struck at 0342Z.
SPECI KIXD 210348Z AUTO 08017G27KT 5SM TSRA BR SCT009 BKN046 OVC090 09/08 A2986 RMK AO2 PK WND 08036/0325 LTG DSNT NE AND SW AND NW TSB44 P0018 $
That bolt appears to have begun the thunderstorm at 0344Z. That makes ALDARS 1 of 2. The next strike hit just west of the airport at 0535Z, and is also plotted in purple.
METAR KIXD 210553Z AUTO 09022G33KT 5SM RA BR OVC095 11/09 A2979 RMK AO2 PK WND 10033/0549 LTG DSNT E AND S TSE0458 PRESFR SLP085 P0015 60160 T01060089 10106 20089 401500072 56020 $ SPECI KIXD 210544Z AUTO 10020G31KT 5SM VCTS RA BR OVC095 11/09 A2983 RMK AO2 PK WND 10032/0500 LTG DSNT ALQDS TSE0458 P0012 T01060089 $
That bolt also failed to inspire ALDARS to change VCTS to TS. The 4th bolt, plotted in red just west of the airport, struck at 1411Z.
SPECI KIXD 211415Z 32008G24KT 270V360 2 1/2SM -TSRA BR BKN005 OVC009 11/10 A2971 RMK AO2 WSHFT 1359 LTG DSNT ALQDS TSB01 TS OHD MOV E P0025 T01060100 SPECI KIXD 211409Z 24017G24KT 3SM -TSRA BR BKN005 OVC010 11/10 A2972 RMK AO2 WSHFT 1355 LTG DSNT ALQDS TSB01 PRESRR TS OHD MOV E P0012 T01060100
A thunderstorm was already in progress. So of the 4 lightning strikes nearest to IXD that day, 2 of the 4 were not reported accurately!
SPECI KIXD 222240Z 22004KT 5SM BR BKN038 OVC049 20/17 A2981 RMK AO2 RAB23E39 P0003 T02000167 SPECI KIXD 222233Z 23006KT 2 1/2SM -RA BKN036 OVC046 20/17 A2982 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT N AND S RAB23 P0003 T02000167 METAR KIXD 222153Z 22006KT 10SM OVC045 21/16 A2980 RMK AO2 RAE17 SLP085 P0000 T02060156
5 lightning strikes in 3 minutes, resulted in ALDARS only reporting LTG DSNT N AND S:
New Bedford, Massachusetts: SPECI KEWB 202351Z 26006G19KT 2SM +TSRA BR SCT045 BKN055 OVC070 18/18 A2971 RMK AO2 VIS 1 1/4V4 RAB29 TSB42E43 P0009
A 1-minute thunderstorm was recorded in remarks, for a thunderstorm that still appeared in present weather.
Worcester, Massachusetts: SPECI KORH 200604Z 23011G24KT 9SM VCTS -RA SCT004 BKN085 OVC110 18/17 A2988 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT E P0003 T01780167 METAR KORH 200554Z 21018G25KT 4SM VCTS +RA BR BKN004 BKN055 OVC075 18/17 A2988 RMK AO2 PK WND 22027/0543 LTG DSNT S RAB33 SLP117 P0004 60004 T01780172 10178 20172 56007 SPECI KORH 200546Z 21018G27KT 4SM VCTS RA BR OVC005 18/17 A2990 RMK AO2 PK WND 22027/0543 LTG DSNT S RAB33 CIG 003V007 P0001 T01780172
VCTS was reported; TS was warranted at 0548Z:
Branson, Missouri: METAR KBBG 212045Z 25006KT 5SM -RA FEW048 OVC065 16/14 A2966 RMK LTG DSNT SW AND NW METAR KBBG 211945Z 21008G16KT 10SM -RA SCT004 SCT030 BKN043 17/17 A2963 RMK LTG DSNT N AND NE SPECI KBBG 211920Z 14016G24KT 1SM RA OVC010 22/18 A2962 RMK LTG DSNT SW-NW
LTG DSNT was reported; TS was warranted for strikes from 1921Z-1938Z:
The 2 bolts to the east (see red insert) struck at 1948Z and 2010Z, which should have extended TS to 2025Z.
Cape Girardeau, Missouri: SPECI KCGI 220614Z AUTO 23009G17KT 9SM R10/6000VP6000FT RA FEW015 SCT031 OVC040 17/15 A2985 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT SW AND NW P0010 T01720150 METAR KCGI 220553Z AUTO 27005KT 10SM -RA BKN015 OVC042 17/15 A2982 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT S AND SW RAB04 SLP095 P0003 60034 T01720150 10278 20172 402940133 51001
TS criteria was met at 0552Z-0556Z; ALDARS reported only LTG DSNT.
Kansas City Downtown Airport, Missouri:
The map shows 3 lightning strikes plotted in blue, which struck at 0108Z. ALDARS successfully reported that thunderstorm:
SPECI KMKC 210127Z AUTO 05015G28KT 3SM TSRA BR SCT010 OVC026 09/07 A2989 RMK AO2 PK WND 06029/0115 LTG DSNT S TSB07 PRESFR P0018 T00940072 SPECI KMKC 210107Z AUTO 06014G26KT 5SM TSRA BR SCT010 OVC044 10/08 A2993 RMK AO2 PK WND 05026/0058 LTG DSNT SE TSB07 PRESRR P0005 T01000078
Another bolt is plotted in purple to the SSW, representing a strike at 0416Z. ALDARS successfully reported that thunderstorm:
SPECI KMKC 210423Z AUTO 08012G22KT 6SM TSRA BR SCT009 BKN050 OVC100 10/08 A2987 RMK AO2 PK WND 08026/0357 LTG DSNT E AND W TSE0359B18 P0009 T01000078
The remaining 3 bolts within 5 miles of MKC, plotted in red to the E AND W, struck at 1409Z. Yet, only VCTS was reported that hour:
METAR KMKC 211454Z AUTO 32007G19KT 280V350 1 1/2SM +RA BR OVC007 11/09 A2970 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT N PRESRR SLP056 P0020 60031 T01060089 53008 SPECI KMKC 211448Z AUTO 03012G19KT 1 3/4SM VCTS +RA BR OVC007 11/09 A2968 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT N CIG 006V011 P0015 SPECI KMKC 211422Z AUTO 05012G22KT 3SM VCTS +RA BR OVC007 11/09 A2966 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT S-NW CIG 005V011 P0006 T01110094 METAR KMKC 211354Z AUTO 06011G19KT 10SM -RA OVC006 11/09 A2966 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT SW CIG 006V010 PRESFR SLP043 P0004 T01110094
ALDARS was inconsistent that day for MKC. It missed 5 strikes inside 5 miles for the 1409Z storm (see red insert, the green range ring is set at 5 miles).
Grand Island, Nebraska: METAR KGRI 212153Z 11013G22KT 3SM TSRA BR BKN008 OVC017 08/08 A2939 RMK AO2 PK WND 08030/2107 TSB44 SLP959 P0035 T00830078 SPECI KGRI 212125Z 11017G27KT 1 1/2SM R35/4000VP6000FT VCTS +RA BR BKN008 OVC012 08/08 A2937 RMK AO2 PK WND 08030/2107 VIS 3/4V2 1/2 P0015 T00830078
2 lightning strikes SSW of the airport at 2131Z and 2132Z, were within 3 miles of GRI; yet, VCTS didn’t get changed to TS until 2144Z.
Atlantic City, New Jersey: SPECI KACY 210045Z 20008G27KT 1 1/2SM -TSRA BR SCT018 BKN046 OVC090 21/19 A2978 RMK AO2 PK WND 29039/0032 LTG DSNT SW RAB31 TSB43 P0034 T02110194 SPECI KACY 210035Z 26017G39KT 1 1/4SM VCTS +RA BR FEW020 BKN049 OVC095 21/19 A2982 RMK AO2 PK WND 29039/0032 LTG DSNT SW RAB31 PRESRR P0008 T02110189
Even though TS criteria was met at 0035Z, ALDARS claimed the time the thunderstorm moved within 5 miles was 0043Z- an 8-minute delay:
Ardmore, Oklahoma: METAR KADM 211055Z AUTO 06004KT 10SM RA SCT018 BKN047 OVC050 18/17 A2956 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT W AND NW P0041 T01790174 METAR KADM 211035Z AUTO 33006KT 7SM +RA SCT014 BKN046 OVC050 18/17 A2959 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT SW THRU N P0033 T01790171 METAR KADM 211015Z AUTO 29007G13KT 3SM +VCTSRA SCT005 BKN035 OVC065 18/17 A2959 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT SW THRU N P0027 T01820172
LTG DSNT and VCTS were reported that hour- for lightning this close to ADM:
Lawton, Oklahoma: METAR KLAW 210453Z AUTO 15006KT 10SM CLR 22/19 A2954 RMK AO2 PK WND 21026/0354 WSHFT 0416 LTG DSNT SW AND W RAB0358E30 TSB0357E12B13E16E31 SLP991 P0008 T02170189
ALDARS recorded a 3-minute thunderstorm, then a 2nd ending time in a row.
2 bolts struck very close to the airport at 0711Z (green boxes). Lightning proceeded to strike the runway (best-resolved position) at 0715Z. ALDARS did not begin a thunder- storm within 5 miles of LAW until 0717Z (TSB17), with ASOS not transmitting the report containing TS until 0721Z.
SPECI KLAW 210721Z AUTO 24009G25KT 1 1/4SM +TSRA BR FEW025 BKN031 OVC041 18/17 A2957 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS RAB05 TSB17 P0037 T01830172 SPECI KLAW 210712Z AUTO 26015G23KT 1 3/4SM VCTS +RA BR FEW012 BKN025 OVC041 19/18 A2959 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS RAB05 P0024 T01940178
Is a 6-minute delay acceptable, when lightning strikes the runway during the delay period?
Norman, Oklahoma:
The NOL (Nearest Observed Lightning to the airport) was either the 0444Z bolt to the SW, or the 0411Z bolt to the east (green box). However, that bolt at 0411Z didn’t result in TS in present weather at 0415Z.
METAR KOUN 210435Z AUTO 01014G22KT 10SM VCTS SCT006 OVC020 17/16 A2963 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS P0027 T01710162 METAR KOUN 210415Z AUTO 01010KT 5SM -VCTSRA BR SCT012 BKN019 OVC039 17/16 A2964 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS P0026 T01700163
Abilene, Texas: SPECI KABI 210654Z 25019G37KT 1 3/4SM R35R/6000VP6000FT +TSRA BR SCT026 BKN033 OVC048 17/16 A2963 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT SW-N TSB54 PRESRR P0003 T01720161 METAR KABI 210652Z 27021G37KT 2 1/2SM VCTS +RA BR FEW024 BKN029 OVC048 18/16 A2961 RMK AO2 PK WND 27037/0646 WSHFT 0637 LTG DSNT SW-N RAB48 PRESRR SLP002 P0001 T01780161
The lightning strike just west of the airport at 0648Z, didn’t get processed by ALDARS/ASOS in time for the 0652Z METAR, which showed VCTS. A human weather observer could have made the change from VCTS to TS in time.
Arlington, Texas: SPECI KGKY 211510Z 21007KT 10SM VCTS -RA OVC085 20/16 A2968 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT N AND W RAB00 P0000 T02000161 METAR KGKY 211453Z 19004KT 10SM OVC080 19/17 A2966 RMK AO2 RAB1354E03 SLP034 P0000 60000 T01940167 50005
VCTS was reported; TS criteria was met at 1456Z:
Georgetown, Texas: METAR KGTU 211456Z 31006KT 10SM -RA SCT041 OVC049 17/15 A2977 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT N TSB26E56 SLP079 P0003 60014 T01670150 53027 SPECI KGTU 211432Z 35006KT 10SM VCTS -RA OVC037 17/15 A2974 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT SW TSB26 P0001
A lightning strike 2 miles SW of GTU at 1433Z, was reported by ALDARS during VCTS, which didn’t get upgraded to TS.
Longview, Texas: METAR KGGG 220153Z 16006KT 10SM BKN045 OVC055 20/19 A2969 RMK AO2 RAE11 SLP048 P0001 T02000194 METAR KGGG 220053Z 16011G19KT 5SM +RA BR BKN039 OVC050 20/19 A2968 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT E SLP044 P0028 T02000194
LTG DSNT E was reported; TS criteria was met at 0045Z and 0110Z:
San Angelo, Texas: SPECI KSJT 210737Z AUTO 27012KT 3SM VCTS -RA BR FEW008 BKN026 OVC090 17/16 A2962 RMK AO2 PK WND 30029/0705 WSHFT 0658 LTG DSNT ALQDS RAB07E12B19 TSB13E34 P0026 T01670156 SPECI KSJT 210734Z AUTO 27013KT 1 3/4SM VCTS RA BR FEW008 BKN026 OVC095 17/16 A2962 RMK AO2 PK WND 30029/0705 WSHFT 0658 LTG DSNT ALQDS RAB07E12B19 TSB13E34 P0026 T01670156 SPECI KSJT 210723Z AUTO 28020G26KT 1 3/4SM +TSRA BR BKN026 OVC033 17/14 A2961 RMK AO2 PK WND 30029/0705 WSHFT 0658 LTG DSNT N AND NW RAB07E12B19 TSB13 PRESRR P0006 T01670144
The strike at 0726Z should have kept TS in present weather through 0741Z, but ALDARS changed to VCTS at 0734Z.
Waco, Texas: METAR KACT 211651Z 17007KT 10SM OVC085 21/16 A2970 RMK AO2 RAB1558E18 SLP051 P0001 T02110161 METAR KACT 211551Z 30003KT 10SM OVC070 22/14 A2970 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT S RAB20E40 SLP050 P0001 T02170139 METAR KACT 211451Z 19003KT 10SM OVC055 19/15 A2970 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT N RAE19 SLP052 P0000 60000 T01940150 51014
Both TS and VCTS went unreported by ALDARS that day, even though LTG DSNT was reported.
The green range ring shows 3 bolts that struck within 5 miles of ACT; other strikes met VCTS criteria.
Wichita Falls Regional Airport, Texas: The Wichita Falls Regional Airport is a joint Military/Civilian Airport utilizing the runways and taxiways of Sheppard Air Force Base. The airport is served by one regional airline, American Eagle, with service to the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport.
METAR KSPS 210852Z 11007KT 4SM -RA BR FEW050 BKN095 BKN110 16/16 A2956 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS SLP999 P0049 60093 T01610161 50013 SPECI KSPS 210817Z 10008KT 3SM VCTS +RA BR BKN043 BKN070 OVC090 16/16 A2955 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS PRESFR P0037 T01610161 SPECI KSPS 210810Z 11009KT 1 1/2SM VCTS +RA BR BKN043 OVC060 16/16 A2957 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS P0026 T01610161 SPECI KSPS 210803Z 00000KT 1 1/2SM +RA BR BKN041 BKN060 OVC075 17/16 A2957 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS P0012 T01670161
On the 21st, during the 0800Z hour, there were several lightning strikes near the joint complex:
At 0758Z, lightning struck just west (green box) of Burkburnett Road. That should have triggered TS, but ALDARS did not do so. Several other bolts which met TS criteria that hour; yet, ALDARS reported VCTS. Relying on ALDARS to report lightning within 5 miles of the airport was a risky venture that hour! The problem was compounded since ALDARS successfully reported other thunderstorms that day:
METAR KSPS 210652Z AUTO 25030G42KT 3SM TS BR SQ FEW013 BKN044 OVC055 21/18 A2962 RMK AO2 PK WND 27042/0652 LTG DSNT ALQDS RAE0556 TSE47B51 PRESRR SLP016 P0000 T02060183 SPECI KSPS 211027Z 16009KT 4SM +TSRA BR BKN009 BKN032 OVC055 17/17 A2955 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT NE AND E TSB19 P0015 T01670167
How do users know when to trust ALDARS?
Knapp State Airport, Montpelier, Vermont: SPECI KMPV 200434Z AUTO 16011KT 5SM VCTS -RA BR FEW009 BKN025 OVC031 17/16 A2985 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT W-NE RAE0358B18 PRESFR P0017 T01720161 SPECI KMPV 200426Z AUTO 21005G18KT 3SM RA BR SCT009 BKN012 OVC025 18/16 A2987 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT N AND NE RAE0358B18 P0016 T01780156 SPECI KMPV 200415Z AUTO 30010KT 9SM VCTS OVC009 17/16 A2988 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT N AND W RAE0358 CIG 005V014 P0000 T01720161 SPECI KMPV 200400Z AUTO 00000KT 10SM VCTS BKN010 OVC013 17/16 A2986 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT W-NE RAE0358 CIG 007V011 P0000 T01720161
At 0401Z (2NW) and 0418Z (3SE), TS criteria was met; but ALDARS reported only VCTS.
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Post by tornado on May 28, 2019 15:23:08 GMT -5
Aspen, Colorado: SPECI KASE 232131Z 02008G20KT 4SM -RA BKN032 OVC040 04/00 A2989 RMK AO2 PK WND 28034/2057 WSHFT 2045 TSB16E17E31 P0003 T00390000 SPECI KASE 232122Z 02008G21KT 4SM -TSRA BKN014 OVC050 04/M01 A2990 RMK AO2 PK WND 28034/2057 WSHFT 2045 TSB16E17 PRESRR P0003 T00391006
ALDARS recorded a bogus TSE17 time.
Pocatello, Idaho: SPECI KPIH 250133Z 30014KT 4SM VCTS RA BKN036 BKN043 OVC055 09/07 A2992 RMK AO2 WSHFT 0101 LTG DSNT SW RAB16 TSE27 P0001 T00940067 SPECI KPIH 250121Z 29014KT 10SM -RA FEW036 SCT043 OVC055 11/07 A2991 RMK AO2 WSHFT 0101 RAB16 P0000 T01060067 ALDARS put TSE27 when it meant TSB27.
University Of Illinois-Willard Airport, Champaign/Urbana, Illinois: SPECI KCMI 230648Z AUTO 23037G59KT 1SM R32R/3000VP6000FT +TSRA BR SCT015 SCT025 BKN045 19/17 A2998 RMK AO2 PK WND 26059/0644 WSHFT 0632 LTG DSNT ALQDS RAB42 TSB48 PRESRR P0020 SPECI KCMI 230645Z AUTO 26038G59KT 1 1/2SM R32R/3000VP6000FT VCTS -RA BR FEW010 SCT021 BKN046 20/18 A2996 RMK AO2 PK WND 26059/0644 LTG DSNT ALQDS RAB42 P0012 T02000178 SPECI KCMI 230640Z AUTO 22017G27KT 180V260 9SM VCTS FEW042 SCT050 BKN085 23/21 A2996 RMK AO2 PK WND 17027/0634 LTG DSNT SW-N PRESRR T02280206
According to ALDARS, lightning within 5 miles of CMI did not begin until 0648Z. That was after a wind gust to 59 knots hit the airport, during the VCTS (officially making that a severe thunderstorm in the vicinity). However, lightning data revealed strikes within 5 miles of CMI as early as 0636Z:
The lightning strike that should have triggered ALDARS to begin TS, hit about 3 miles NW at 0636Z (green box); another strike at 0641Z also occurred before the peak wind (green box to the E). In weather observing, minutes count; and a human observer could have begun the TS before the severe thunderstorm hit the airport.
Waukegan, Illinois: SPECI KUGN 241718Z 32012G21KT 2 1/2SM VCTS RA BR FEW011 BKN033 OVC042 12/11 A3019 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS TSB12E13 P0007 T01220106
ALDARS recorded a 1-minute thunderstorm.
Pal-Waukee Airport, Wheeling, Illinois: SPECI KPWK 241033Z 36007KT 9SM -TSRA FEW060 BKN090 OVC110 13/09 A3016 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT SW-NW RAB01 TSB33 P0003 T01330094 SPECI KPWK 241015Z AUTO 35005KT 10SM -RA FEW065 OVC090 14/09 A3015 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT S-W RAB01 P0001 T01390089
ALDARS should have begun TS at 1023Z, not 1033Z:
Gary, Indiana: METAR KGYY 241145Z 36013KT 6SM -RA OVC090 14/11 A3021 RMK LTG DSNT E THRU W RAB30 METAR KGYY 241045Z 36010KT 6SM SCT070 OVC090 15/12 A3011 RMK LTG DSNT S THRU NW
Somehow, LTG DSNT was reported- but not TS or even VCTS.
Muncie, Indiana: METAR KMIE 251853Z 32015G28KT 1 1/4SM -RA BR FEW009 BKN045 OVC065 21/19 A3002 RMK AO2 PK WND 29042/1828 WSHFT 1819 LTG DSNT NE AND S RAB31 SLP156 P0035 T02110189 SPECI KMIE 251849Z 33016G35KT 1/4SM +RA FG FEW009 BKN045 OVC060 21/19 A3002 RMK AO2 PK WND 29042/1828 WSHFT 1819 LTG DSNT NE AND S AND W RAB31 P0035 SPECI KMIE 251841Z 31021G41KT 3/4SM +RA FEW008 SCT031 BKN043 22/18 A3003 RMK AO2 PK WND 29042/1828 WSHFT 1819 LTG DSNT ALQDS RAB31 PRESRR P0016 T02170183 SPECI KMIE 251839Z 30018G41KT 2SM RA FEW010 BKN043 BKN060 22/18 A3003 RMK AO2 PK WND 29042/1828 WSHFT 1819 LTG DSNT ALQDS RAB31 PRESRR P0005 T02170183 METAR KMIE 251753Z 25016G29KT 10SM FEW048 SCT060 SCT085 31/18 A2997 RMK AO2 PK WND 24030/1741 LTG DSNT N AND NW SLP135 T03110178 10317 20244 58006
ALDARS reported LTG DSNT that hour- but not TS:
That was even though data showed a lightning strike to the airport at 1838Z! A strong thunderstorm produced the wind gust to 42 knots, not just a rain shower.
Garden City, Kansas: SPECI KGCK 240449Z AUTO 29015G23KT 10SM VCTS BKN003 OVC016 12/11 A2990 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT NE-S RAB26E35 TSB28E30E49 P0000 $ SPECI KGCK 240442Z AUTO 29015G21KT 10SM TS SCT005 OVC016 12/12 A2990 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT NE-S RAB26E35 TSB28E30 P0000 T01170117 $
A 2-minute thunderstorm was recorded in remarks, even though it still appeared in present weather. TSE30E49 was not correct.
SPECI KGCK 252334Z 18016G33KT 10SM VCTS -RA SCT014 BKN090 OVC120 18/16 A2997 RMK AO2 PK WND 15033/2325 LTG DSNT ALQDS TSE17E28 PRESRR TS VC NW-NE MOV N P0012 T01780161 $
2 consecutive TSE times were reported.
Johnson County Executive Airport, Olathe, Kansas: SPECI KOJC 250034Z 28015G28KT 3/4SM +TSRA BR SCT005 BKN013 OVC034 19/19 A2994 RMK AO2 PK WND 25028/0032 LTG DSNT ALQDS RAB22 TSE24E32 PRESRR TS SW-NE MVG NE T01940189 PNO $ SPECI KOJC 250029Z 28012G21KT 240V300 1 1/2SM +RA BR FEW005 BKN011 OVC045 21/20 A2990 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS RAB22 TSE24 T02060200 PNO $ SPECI KOJC 250022Z 31010G15KT 3SM TSRA BR FEW009 BKN032 OVC065 22/21 A2987 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS RAB22 T02220211 PNO $
TSE24E32 couldn’t have been correct; perhaps ALDARS meant TSE24B32.
Newman Field, Easton, Maryland: SPECI KESN 232125Z 13007KT 10SM SCT040 21/19 A3006 METAR KESN 232050Z 29027G38KT 2SM RA OVC007 27/21 A3011
A thunderstorm was not reported for the lightning which began striking near the airport at 2049Z:
Hanscom Field, Bedford, Massachusetts: METAR KBED 240356Z AUTO 21013G18KT 2SM R11/5000VP6000FT RA BR SCT014 BKN038 OVC090 16/14 A2973 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT E AND SW RAB26 PRESFR SLP078 P0012 T01610139 SPECI KBED 240348Z AUTO 21011KT 1 3/4SM VCTS RA BKN014 BKN034 OVC070 16/13 A2975 RMK AO2 VIS 1V3 RAB26 P0009 T01610133 SPECI KBED 240339Z AUTO 26009KT 6SM VCTS -RA OVC014 16/13 A2978 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT N AND NE RAB26 PRESRR P0001 T01610133
VCTS was reported by ALDARS; TS was warranted for lightning at 0345Z:
The bolt within 5 miles to the NE struck at 0337Z.
Norwood, Massachusetts: SPECI KOWD 240430Z AUTO 23007KT 2SM -TSRA BR SCT011 BKN027 OVC100 17/15 A2976 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT E RAB02 TSB06B22 P0020 T01720150
There cannot be 2 consecutive TSB times with no intervening TSE time- but ALDARS did so anyway.
Barnes Municipal Airport, Westfield, Massachusetts: METAR KBAF 240353Z AUTO 18007KT 5SM -RA BR FEW018 BKN039 OVC090 16/15 A2976 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT E AND SW AND W RAB23 SLP078 P0031 T01560150 SPECI KBAF 240334Z AUTO VRB06KT 2 1/2SM +RA BR FEW013 BKN032 OVC090 16/14 A2978 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT E RAB23 P0019 T01610144 METAR KBAF 240253Z AUTO 17007KT 10SM SCT100 17/14 A2975 RMK AO2 SLP074 T01720144 56034
LTG DSNT was reported during an hour when lightning struck a golf course just east of the airport at 0321Z:
Hopefully, golfers use something other than ALDARS to warn them of the lightning risk.
Worcester, Massachusetts: SPECI KORH 240349Z 26013G18KT 3SM VCTS RA BR SCT008 BKN049 OVC065 15/15 A2979 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT NE AND W RAB23 P0021 SPECI KORH 240343Z 26012KT 1 3/4SM R11/4500VP6000FT VCTS +RA BR SCT006 BKN011 OVC033 15/15 A2980 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT NE AND W RAB23 P0019 T01500150 SPECI KORH 240338Z 28013G20KT 2 1/2SM R11/4500VP6000FT VCTS RA BR BKN006 BKN011 OVC027 16/15 A2980 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT NE AND NW RAB23 PRESRR P0004 T01560150 METAR KORH 240254Z 22013KT 10SM BKN008 OVC013 14/14 A2976 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT NW CIG 005V010 SLP077 60001 T01440139 58027
Lightning at 0328Z struck about 3 miles NW of ORH, while LTG at 0336Z struck about 2 miles WSW of ORH. Instead of TS, ALDARS began VCTS at 0338Z.
Flint, Michigan: SPECI KFNT 251821Z 28015G35KT 1/4SM R09/1200V3500FT +TSRA FG BKN013 BKN043 OVC075 21/18 A2989 RMK AO2 PK WND 21035/1812 RAB09 TSB1756E11B21 P0061 T02060183 SPECI KFNT 251818Z 28016G35KT 1/4SM R09/1200VP6000FT +RA FG BKN015 BKN046 OVC110 21/18 A2990 RMK AO2 PK WND 21035/1812 RAB09 TSB1756E11 P0049 T02060183 SPECI KFNT 251813Z 22024G35KT 1/2SM R09/1200VP6000FT +RA SCT022 BKN046 OVC120 23/18 A2989 RMK AO2 PK WND 21035/1812 LTG DSNT W RAB09 TSB1756E11 PRESRR P0006 T02280183 SPECI KFNT 251802Z 26014G23KT 10SM TS FEW044 SCT050 BKN110 27/17 A2985 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT W TSB1756 T02670172
When ALDARS reported TSE11, it meant no lightning had struck within 5 miles of FNT since 1756Z. The thunderstorm began again for lightning at 1821Z, according to ALDARS. However, lightning which struck at 1810Z (2 bolts to the SW) and 1812Z (NE), didn’t get properly reported:
All 3 of those bolts struck within 5 miles of FNT. TS should not have been removed from present weather during that period.
Joplin, Missouri: METAR KJLN 250853Z AUTO 11014G20KT 5SM RA BR FEW055 BKN095 OVC120 18/18 A2997 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT E AND S PRESFR SLP136 P0032 60063 T01830178 58035 SPECI KJLN 250838Z AUTO 13007KT 4SM +RA BR SCT048 BKN070 OVC090 18/17 A3003 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT SE AND S P0029 T01830172
ALDARS reported LTG DSNT E AND S, when TS was justified for lightning at 0840Z.
Spirit Of St. Louis Airport, Missouri: SPECI KSUS 230518Z AUTO 20006KT 10SM VCTS CLR 26/22 A2992 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS TSE05E12 T02560222
There cannot be 2 consecutive TSE times with no intervening TSB time- but ALDARS did so anyway.
Grand Island, Nebraska: SPECI KGRI 240106Z AUTO 07012KT 2 1/2SM +TSRA BR SCT040 BKN055 OVC090 12/11 A2999 RMK AO2 VIS 1 1/2V5 LTG DSNT ALQDS P0015 T01170106 SPECI KGRI 240059Z AUTO 04006KT 2 1/2SM +RA BR BKN040 BKN070 OVC095 12/11 A3001 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS P0008 T01220106 TSNO METAR KGRI 240053Z 06010KT 5SM VCTS RA BR SCT037 BKN065 OVC090 12/11 A2998 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS RAB14 SLP158 P0002 T01220106
TS disappeared from present weather at 0059Z, because of an ALDARS outage (TSNO).
Lincoln, Nebraska: METAR KLNK 240454Z AUTO 34008G17KT 290V090 6SM VCTS -RA BR SCT007 BKN011 OVC042 13/12 A3004 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS SLP169 P0039 T01330122 SPECI KLNK 240452Z AUTO 32013G17KT 5SM RA BR SCT007 BKN013 OVC037 13/12 A3003 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS P0039 SPECI KLNK 240448Z AUTO VRB05KT 4SM RA BR SCT007 BKN023 OVC037 13/12 A3000 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS P0038 SPECI KLNK 240443Z AUTO 16007G18KT 140V200 4SM VCTS RA BR FEW010 SCT023 OVC037 13/12 A3003 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS P0037 T01330117 SPECI KLNK 240435Z AUTO 14007KT 2 1/2SM VCTS +RA BR SCT023 SCT027 OVC032 13/12 A3005 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS P0034 T01330122 SPECI KLNK 240423Z AUTO VRB03KT 1 1/2SM R36/6000VP6000FT VCTS +RA BR FEW022 BKN029 OVC034 13/12 A3002 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS PRESRR P0012 T01280117 SPECI KLNK 240420Z AUTO 05005KT 2 1/2SM R36/6000VP6000FT VCTS +RA BR FEW020 SCT029 OVC034 13/12 A2999 RMK AO2 VIS 1V5 LTG DSNT ALQDS P0006 T01330117 SPECI KLNK 240408Z AUTO 06010KT 9SM VCTS -RA BKN028 OVC036 13/12 A2998 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS P0001 T01330117
5 times from 0417Z-0452Z, lightning struck within 5 miles of LNK, with only VCTS being reported instead of TS.
Hobbs, New Mexico: METAR KHOB 252150Z 14017G26KT 10SM FEW060 28/12 A2993 SPECI KHOB 252105Z 15034G48KT 8SM VCTS BKN055 BKN065 29/13 A2991 RMK OCNL LTG 2 SE METAR KHOB 252050Z 20011G21KT 10SM VCTS SCT055 BKN065 30/16 A2992
LTG 2 SE should be reported as TS, not VCTS.
Elmira, New York: SPECI KELM 231647Z 23004KT 3SM R24/5500VP6000FT -RA FEW033 BKN070 OVC110 21/17 A2999 RMK AO2 RAB19 P0009 SPECI KELM 231637Z 27009KT 1 3/4SM R24/4000VP6000FT +RA SCT033 BKN044 OVC110 20/17 A3002 RMK AO2 VIS 3/4V5 RAB19 PRESRR P0007 T02000172 METAR KELM 231553Z 08003KT 10SM CLR 22/16 A3000 RMK AO2 SLP155 T02170161
The 1624Z lightning strike wasn’t detected by ALDARS.
+TSRA should have been the code at 1637Z.
Niagara Falls, New York: METAR KIAG 231453Z VRB05KT 3SM RA BR SCT021 SCT055 OVC095 17/16 A2993 RMK AO2 PK WND 27026/1438 LTG DSNT ALQDS RAB27 SLP137 P0003 60003 T01720156 58008 SPECI KIAG 231448Z 24011KT 3SM RA BR SCT021 SCT055 BKN070 18/16 A2996 RMK AO2 PK WND 27026/1438 LTG DSNT N AND SE AND S RAB27 P0003 SPECI KIAG 231440Z 26021G26KT 5SM RA SCT021 BKN025 BKN055 18/15 A2998 RMK AO2 PK WND 27026/1438 LTG DSNT SE AND S AND NW RAB27 P0001 T01780150 METAR KIAG 231353Z 22009KT 10SM FEW022 19/15 A2994 RMK AO2 SLP137 T01940150
LTG DSNT was reported; TS was justified for the LTG NW:
Rome, New York: SPECI KRME 240045Z 30010KT 10SM FEW039 SCT047 BKN080 17/14 A2978 RMK AO2 PK WND 32040/0011 WSHFT 0006 LTG DSNT E RAB12E34 P0028 T01670144 SPECI KRME 240025Z 30014G21KT 3SM VCTS -RA BR SCT028 BKN060 OVC100 16/14 A2978 RMK AO2 PK WND 32040/0011 WSHFT 0006 LTG DSNT NE AND E RAB12 P0028 T01610139 SPECI KRME 240022Z 30014G36KT 1SM VCTS RA BR SCT024 BKN060 OVC095 16/14 A2977 RMK AO2 PK WND 32040/0011 WSHFT 0006 LTG DSNT NE AND E RAB12 P0028 T01560139 RVRNO SPECI KRME 240014Z 31030G40KT 3/4SM VCTS +RA SCT020 BKN075 OVC100 18/14 A2978 RMK AO2 PK WND 32040/0011 LTG DSNT ALQDS RAB12 PRESRR P0025 T01780139 RVRNO SPECI KRME 240011Z 31032G40KT 2 1/2SM VCTS HZ FEW029 SCT055 OVC100 22/14 A2977 RMK AO2 PK WND 32040/0011 LTG DSNT ALQDS PRESRR T02220139 METAR KRME 232353Z 26011G19KT 10SM SCT095 23/13 A2972 RMK AO2 WSHFT 2244 LTG DSNT W-N SLP058 60013 T02330133 10244 20189 56032
The wind gust to 40 knots was due to TS, not VCTS:
How can ALDARS misjudge the distance to lightning so close to an airport?
White Plains, New York: METAR KHPN 231956Z 27010KT 9SM VCTS -RA FEW036 OVC095 20/13 A3004 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT SW RAB56 TSE51 PRESRR SLP170 P0000 T02000128 METAR KHPN 231856Z 26010KT 10SM FEW055 21/12 A3001 RMK AO2 SLP161 T02110122
ALDARS put TSE51 when it meant TSB51.
METAR KHPN 240456Z 28007G15KT 6SM BR FEW041 SCT070 SCT090 19/18 A2979 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT E RAE03 SLP085 P0003 T01940183 402110128 METAR KHPN 240356Z 25010G17KT 3SM -RA BR FEW050 BKN080 OVC100 20/18 A2980 RMK AO2 SLP087 P0006 T02000183
Lightning which struck at 0412Z and 0414Z, didn’t result in TS getting reported.
Lunken Field, Cincinnati Municipal Airport, Ohio: METAR KLUK 232253Z 21005KT 10SM VCTS FEW028 SCT047 BKN110 23/21 A3006 RMK AO2 PK WND 31033/2234 LTG DSNT E AND SE AND W RAE48 TSE01B02E24B25E48E53 SLP175 TS MOV NE P0034 T02330211
ALDARS recorded 2 consecutive TSE times.
METAR KLUK 232053Z 20014G21KT 10SM TS SCT050 BKN065CB 27/22 A3003 RMK AO2 PK WND 21026/2028 LTG DSNT S-W TSB45E51B52 SLP167 OCNL LTGICCG SW TS SW MOV NE T02720217 58021
ALDARS recorded a 6-minute thunderstorm.
Cuyahoga County Airport, Cleveland, Ohio: METAR KCGF 280955Z AUTO 19009KT 10SM SCT044 BKN050 OVC095 19/18 A2971 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT W FZRANO T01930178 METAR KCGF 250755Z AUTO 15010KT 10SM VCTS SCT060 BKN080 BKN110 18/12 A3005 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT N AND NW FZRANO T01780116
D level LAWRS sites aren’t required to report thunderstorms. So the burden falls to ALDARS, which is enabled at this site, since it reported VCTS and LTG DSNT on 25 and 28 May. But on 23 May, it did not do so:
METAR KCGF 231245Z 27009G17KT 7SM -RA FEW008 BKN025 OVC080 18/17 A3003 SPECI KCGF 231230Z 27026G55KT 4SM RA BR BKN025 OVC035 21/18 A3004 METAR KCGF 231145Z 21012KT 10SM FEW065 SCT100 OVC150 22/18 A2998
There was a wind gust to 55 knots on the 1230Z SPECI. Lightning data showed 4 strikes near the airport at 1225Z-1226Z:
Why didn’t ALDARS report that lightning? Did LAWRS disable ALDARS? Why would LAWRS not report a severe thunderstorm, yet report TS with calm wind a few days later?
SPECI KCGF 262115Z 00000KT 2SM TSRA OVC007 18/17 A3003
Mansfield, Ohio: SPECI KMFD 252118Z 26012G26KT 3SM -RA FEW027 BKN070 OVC100 21/18 A3002 RMK AO2 PK WND 28039/2100 LTG DSNT E RAB04 P0010 T02060178 SPECI KMFD 252109Z 26020G39KT 1 3/4SM +RA FEW025 BKN041 OVC120 21/18 A3002 RMK AO2 PK WND 28039/2100 RAB04 PRESRR P0004 T02110178 METAR KMFD 252052Z 26015G23KT 10SM SCT070 BKN120 29/15 A2998 RMK AO2 PK WND 23031/2012 SLP141 T02890150 55002
LTG DSNT E was reported; TS was warranted, for the strike at 2110Z.
Wiley Post Airport, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma: METAR KPWA 250353Z AUTO 13008KT 4SM +TSRA BR SCT050 BKN070 OVC090 19/18 A3000 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS TSE0254B0256E11B41 SLP144 P0012 T01940183 SPECI KPWA 250317Z AUTO 17005KT 8SM VCTS -RA FEW075 OVC100 19/18 A2999 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS TSE0254B0256E11 P0003 T01940178 SPECI KPWA 250303Z AUTO 22006KT 9SM -TSRA SCT028 OVC095 19/18 A3000 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS TSE0254B0256 P0001 T01940178
Since ALDARS reported TSE11B41, that would mean no lightning struck within 5 miles of PWA until 0341Z. Yet, VCTS remained as the present weather code until 0353Z. The normal processing period for a METAR meant that ASOS couldn’t handle both the METAR, and restarting a TS (thunderstorm within 5 miles).
Altoona, Pennsylvania: METAR KAOO 240253Z AUTO 26015KT 10SM FEW033 FEW046 FEW065 23/17 A2997 RMK AO2 PK WND 25026/0236 SLP137 60000 T02280167 53004 SPECI KAOO 240241Z AUTO 26016G26KT 10SM VCTS FEW046 SCT075 23/17 A2998 RMK AO2 PK WND 25026/0236 LTG DSNT SE AND S AND NW T02280167 METAR KAOO 240153Z AUTO 26019G24KT 10SM FEW041 24/17 A2996 RMK AO2 PK WND 25026/0138 LTG DSNT NE AND SW RAB27E37 SLP135 P0000 T02390172
VCTS was reported for only 12 minutes.
Latrobe, Pennsylvania: METAR KLBE 240335Z AUTO 25007KT 10SM FEW002 SCT013 BKN047 21/21 A3001 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT S AND SW METAR KLBE 240315Z AUTO 31015G26KT 3SM VCTS RA FEW010 SCT022 BKN042 22/21 A3002 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT SW-NW METAR KLBE 240255Z AUTO 21008KT 10SM CLR 22/20 A2999 RMK AO2
VCTS was reported; TS was warranted for lightning at 0305Z.
Allegheny County Airport, nr Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania: SPECI KAGC 252350Z 22011KT 10SM VCTS -RA FEW065 SCT110 24/21 A3001 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS RAB47 TSE44 P0000 METAR KAGC 252253Z 20010G16KT 10SM CLR 24/21 A2999 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT NW SLP151 T02440206
ALDARS put TSE44 when it meant TSB44.
Amarillo, Texas: SPECI KAMA 232319Z 32012KT 8SM TS BKN004 OVC039 13/12 A2986 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT NE AND SW AND W RAE18 TSE2259B13 P0011 T01330122 SPECI KAMA 232311Z 31011KT 3SM R04/5500VP6000FT -RA BR BKN004 OVC039 13/12 A2986 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT NE AND SW TSE2259 P0011 T01330122 SPECI KAMA 232305Z 33013KT 2 1/2SM R04/5500VP6000FT VCTS RA BR SCT004 BKN037 OVC050 13/12 A2984 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT NE AND SW TSE2259 P0007 T01330122 METAR KAMA 232253Z 34012KT 2 1/2SM -TSRA BR FEW005 BKN031 OVC050 13/12 A2983 RMK AO2 PK WND 27035/2206 SFC VIS 6 LTG DSNT ALQDS RAB08 TSB2157 SLP064 P0039 T01330122
ALDARS claimed that lightning within 5 miles had ended by 2259Z, and did not restart until 2313Z. However, the TSE2259B13 remark was not supported by lightning data:
Data showed 2 lightning strikes at 2259Z, which should have kept TS in present weather through 2313Z. Instead, ALDARS gave the “all clear” the same minute 2 lightning bolts struck close to runway 04/22.
Morgantown, West Virginia: METAR KMGW 251853Z 23007KT 5SM -RA BR FEW016 BKN080 OVC100 23/21 A3010 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT NE AND S RAB11 SLP187 P0005 T02280211 SPECI KMGW 251841Z VRB03G15KT 2 1/2SM -RA BR FEW025 BKN080 OVC100 22/21 A3010 RMK AO2 VIS 1 1/4V5 LTG DSNT ALQDS RAB11 P0003 T02220206 SPECI KMGW 251826Z VRB06KT 7SM VCTS -RA FEW031 SCT050 OVC090 26/20 A3010 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS RAB11 TSSW-NW OCNL LGTICCCCG P0000 T02610200
VCTS was reported, TS was warranted:
Appleton, Wisconsin: METAR KATW 250835Z AUTO 19006KT 5SM -RA BKN047 BKN070 OVC085 16/16 A2977 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT E AND SE METAR KATW 250815Z AUTO 17011KT 1 1/2SM +VCTSRA SCT018 BKN031 OVC048 15/15 A2975 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQS
VCTS was reported, TS was warranted:
Kenosha, Wisconsin: SPECI KENW 241711Z 30009G21KT 3SM +TSRA BR FEW009 BKN037 OVC043 13/12 A3022 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS TSB05 TS OHD MOV W P0010 T01330122 SPECI KENW 241659Z 31010G15KT 3SM VCTS RA BR FEW009 OVC037 13/12 A3020 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT SW-N PRESRR TS E MOV W P0003 T01330117 METAR KENW 241653Z 00000KT 4SM VCTS RA BR OVC037 13/12 A3015 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS RAE05B33 SLP213 TS E MOV W P0003 T01280122
ALDARS claimed the first lightning to strike within 5 miles of ENW, was at 1705Z. Lightning data showed otherwise:
At 1654Z, the best resolved position of a lightning strike, was on runway 7L/25R. Yet, ALDARS and even LAWRS did not change VCTS to TS, at least for another 11 minutes.
Oshkosh, Wisconsin: METAR KOSH 250853Z AUTO 29004KT 4SM -TSRA BR FEW026 BKN060 OVC080 17/16 A2978 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT NE-SE TSB51 SLP081 P0025 60038 T01670161 55005 SPECI KOSH 250850Z AUTO 29008KT 2 1/2SM R36/5500VP6000FT VCTS -RA BR SCT027 BKN065 OVC080 17/16 A2979 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS P0025 SPECI KOSH 250842Z AUTO 29010KT 1SM R36/5000VP6000FT +RA BR FEW006 BKN024 OVC110 17/16 A2977 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT E-SW P0023 T01720161 SPECI KOSH 250837Z AUTO 1 3/4SM R36/5500VP6000FT VCTS +RA BR FEW009 BKN065 OVC110 18/17 A2978 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS P0013 T01780167 SPECI KOSH 250833Z AUTO VRB06G16KT 4SM VCTS -RA BR SCT028 BKN070 OVC110 18/17 A2979 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS PRESRR P0006 T01830172 SPECI KOSH 250825Z AUTO 19009KT 7SM -RA SCT070 BKN095 OVC110 18/17 A2974 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS P0003 T01830172 METAR KOSH 250753Z AUTO 18006KT 4SM VCTS -RA BR SCT050 SCT060 OVC075 17/17 A2977 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT E-SW RAB0656 SLP075 P0009 T01720167
For part of that hour, ALDARS reported VCTS, changing to TS at 0851Z. However, lightning struck within 5 miles of OSH at 0807Z (E), and 0826Z (NE):
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Post by tornado on May 30, 2019 12:40:40 GMT -5
Drake Field, Fayetteville, Arkansas: SPECI KFYV 291921Z 35003KT 1SM +TSRA BR FEW012 BKN038 OVC048 17/17 A2991 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS TSE13B21 P0037 T01670167 SPECI KFYV 291917Z 00000KT 1/2SM VCTS +RA FG FEW012 BKN031 OVC045 17/17 A2993 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS TSE13 P0035 T0167016
ALDARS successfully reported VCTS and TS that hour. However, the lightning which struck nearest to the airport, hit at 1735Z and 1754Z:
However, no lightning or thunder remarks by either ALDARS or LAWRS were reported, nor was TS reported in present weather!
SPECI KFYV 291836Z 05005KT 1 3/4SM +RA BR FEW029 SCT043 OVC060 17/17 A2984 RMK AO2 P0010 T01720167 SPECI KFYV 291756Z VRB03KT 3SM -RA BR FEW022 BKN043 OVC065 17/16 A2985 RMK AO2 P0000 T01720161 METAR KFYV 291753Z VRB03KT 1 1/4SM -RA BR SCT022 BKN039 OVC065 17/16 A2984 RMK AO2 PK WND 29029/1658 WSHFT 1657 RAB1656 SLP093 P0037 60037 T01670161 10250 20167 50002 SPECI KFYV 291750Z VRB05KT 3/4SM +RA BR SCT022 BKN039 OVC065 17/16 A2984 RMK AO2 PK WND 29029/1658 WSHFT 1657 RAB1656 P0037 SPECI KFYV 291731Z 1 3/4SM +RA BR FEW009 BKN032 OVC039 17/16 A2986 RMK AO2 PK WND 29029/1658 WSHFT 1657 RAB1656 P0011 T01720161
Since ALDARS successfully reported one thunderstorm, while not reporting lightning very close to the airport; how do users know when to trust ALDARS?
Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport, Fayetteville/Springdale, Arkansas: SPECI KXNA 291639Z 24006KT 1 3/4SM R16/4000VP6000FT +TSRA BR FEW012 BKN029 OVC043 22/20 A2983 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS RAB31 TSB23E31 P0018 T02220200
ALDARS recorded an 8-minute thunderstorm, putting in an ending time even though the TS was still ongoing.
Fort Collins, Colorado: METAR KFNL 260656Z AUTO 21004KT 10SM CLR 12/10 A2998 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT N AND NE TSB0557E03 SLP105 T01220100 402390033 SPECI KFNL 260603Z AUTO 17009KT 10SM FEW028 SCT044 BKN070 14/11 A2998 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT N TSB0557E03
A 6-minute thunderstorm was recorded.
Wilmington, Delaware: SPECI KILG 292329Z 30010KT 6SM -RA BR BKN041 BKN070 BKN100 21/19 A2971 RMK AO2 PK WND 33050/2257 LTG DSNT NE-S TSE2254B2255E10 P0037 T02060189 $ SPECI KILG 292323Z 29012G24KT 3SM VCTS RA BR BKN041 BKN070 21/19 A2971 RMK AO2 PK WND 33050/2257 LTG DSNT ALQDS TSE2254B2255E10 P0036 T02060189 $ SPECI KILG 292313Z 29020G34KT 1SM R01/5500VP6000FT VCTS +RA BR FEW022 BKN032 OVC110 21/19 A2972 RMK AO2 PK WND 33050/2257 LTG DSNT ALQDS TSE2254B2255E10 P0027 T02060189 $ SPECI KILG 292309Z 29024G38KT 1/2SM R01/5000VP6000FT +TSRA FG BKN029 OVC110 20/19 A2972 RMK AO2 PK WND 33050/2257 LTG DSNT ALQDS TSE2254B2255 P0020 T02000189 $
ALDARS claimed the thunderstorm ended at 2310Z (at least the lightning within 5 miles of ILG was over). However, lightning data showed otherwise:
TS should have continued in present weather instead of VCTS, until at least 2327Z, since a bolt struck near the airport at 2312Z to the WSW.
Alton, Illinois: METAR KALN 260455Z AUTO 21009KT 10SM CLR 25/22 A3002 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT NW T02520218 METAR KALN 260435Z AUTO 21008KT 10SM CLR 26/22 A3001 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT N AND NW T02550219 METAR KALN 260415Z AUTO 18009KT 10SM CLR 25/22 A3000 RMK AO2 T02520220 TSNO METAR KALN 260355Z AUTO 18008KT 10SM SCT048 SCT055 25/22 A3000 RMK AO2 T02510219 TSNO METAR KALN 260335Z AUTO 17006KT 10SM SCT048 BKN055 BKN075 24/21 A3001 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT N T02440213
ALDARS was out-of-service for 2 reports on the 26th.
METAR KALN 290635Z AUTO 01013G20KT 10SM -TSRA SCT014 OVC036 18/18 A2975 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQS T01810176 METAR KALN 290615Z AUTO 34009G23KT 10SM -RA SCT014 BKN038 OVC065 19/18 A2977 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT W T01870175 METAR KALN 290555Z AUTO 02007KT 350V050 10SM SCT043 SCT050 OVC065 20/18 A2975 RMK AO2 T01970176 10279 20197 403050197 TSNO METAR KALN 290535Z AUTO 36007KT 10SM -RA SCT038 SCT050 OVC060 21/18 A2976 RMK AO2 T02090177 TSNO METAR KALN 290515Z AUTO 36011G16KT 10SM SCT046 BKN060 OVC080 24/20 A2976 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT W THRU N T02380196 METAR KALN 290455Z AUTO 19004KT 10SM SCT060 BKN070 OVC090 24/20 A2974 RMK AO2 T02350197 TSNO METAR KALN 290435Z AUTO 18003KT 10SM SCT090 23/20 A2974 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT N AND NW T02300198
ALDARS was out-of-service for 3 reports on the 29th.
Bloomington-Normal, Illinois: METAR KBMI 282056Z 06013KT 10SM CLR 20/17 A2974 RMK AO2 WSHFT 2010 TSE1958B00E01RAE04 SLP064 P0000 60015 T02000172 58013
A 1-minute thunderstorm was reported.
Decatur, Illinois: SPECI KDEC 260600Z AUTO 31021G45KT 3SM +TSRA BR FEW023 SCT036 BKN050 19/17 A3005 RMK AO2 PK WND 30031/0600 WSHFT 0546 LTG DSNT ALQDS TSB00 P0007 T01890167 METAR KDEC 260554Z AUTO 31028G45KT 7SM VCTS -RA FEW023 BKN050 BKN060 23/18 A3005 RMK AO2 PK WND 30045/0552 WSHFT 0539 LTG DSNT SW-N RAB54 PRESRR SLP169 P0000 60000 T02280178 10283 20228 402940217 53017 SPECI KDEC 260550Z AUTO 24017G22KT 210V270 10SM VCTS SCT050 BKN060 25/19 A3003 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT SW-N PRESRR
While the first lightning strike within 5 miles of DEC was at 0552Z (green box), ALDARS claimed it was at 0600Z. The gust to 45 knots occurred at the onset of TS, but wasn’t reported that way at 0554Z.
METAR KDEC 290854Z AUTO 13007KT 8SM -RA SCT065 BKN110 17/16 A2975 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT SE AND S RAB33 SLP070 P0003 60045 T01720156 56015 SPECI KDEC 290835Z AUTO 06006KT 10SM VCTS -RA BKN070 OVC090 17/16 A2975 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT E-SW RAB33 P0000 T01670156
VCTS was reported; TS was justified at 0830Z.
Waukegan, Illinois: METAR KUGN 272055Z 13011G21KT 5SM BR SCT022 BKN027 OVC060 15/13 A2978 RMK AO2 RAE25 SLP084 P0000 60020 T01500133 56050 SPECI KUGN 272027Z 13014G23KT 7SM FEW022 OVC070 16/14 A2979 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT W RAE25 P0000 T01610139
LTG DSNT W was reported; the LTG within 5 miles was not detected.
Even VCTS criteria was met but not reported.
Gary, Indiana: METAR KGYY 272045Z 08009KT 6SM -RA BKN035 OVC040 21/19 A2980 RMK LTG DSNT W SPECI KGYY 272010Z 27027KT 2 1/2SM VCTSRA BKN030 OVC040 23/19 A2983 RMK OCNL LTGCCIC RAB09 TS N MOV E METAR KGYY 271945Z 10010KT 6SM VCTS BKN035 OVC040 22/19 A2981 RMK LTG DSNT W METAR KGYY 271845Z 12010KT 7SM VCTS BKN037 BKN042 OVC075 25/17 A2987 RMK LTG DSNT W
VCTS is reported when lightning is detected by ALDARS from 5-10NM from an airport. The lightning on the first map struck from 1902Z (green box to S) to 2053Z (red box to NW). Do any of the lightning strikes appear to be more than 5NM from GYY?
The second map has a green range ring set at 5SM around GYY (5NM would produce an even larger range ring).
How is it that ALDARS ranged the distances to that many lightning strikes, incorrectly?
METAR KGYY 290435Z AUTO 22004KT 3SM VCTSRA BKN003 OVC017 11/11 A2987 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT E THRU SW T01080108 METAR KGYY 290335Z AUTO 36006KT 5SM +VCTSRA SCT003 BKN027 OVC047 11/11 A2982 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT SE THRU W T01050105 METAR KGYY 290315Z AUTO 32013KT 3SM +RA BKN003 BKN026 OVC033 11/11 A2985 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT SE THRU W T01050105 METAR KGYY 290245Z 01007KT 3SM -RA OVC003 10/10 A2977
The lightning strikes closest to GYY on the 29th, hit at 0300Z, 0302Z, and 0447Z. All met TS criteria, but only VCTS was reported.
Muncie, Indiana: SPECI KMIE 291036Z 19004KT 2 1/2SM BR OVC003 20/18 A2975 RMK AO2 T02000183 SPECI KMIE 291011Z 14004KT 3SM BR OVC003 20/18 A2974 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT NE T02000183 METAR KMIE 290953Z AUTO 04004KT 4SM VCTS BR OVC003 20/18 A2973 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT W-N RAB32E46 SLP057 P0000 T02000178
There was a 300-foot ceiling during the period. Thunderstorms embedded in low clouds can be particularly hazardous to pilots. So while ALDARS reported VCTS, it ignored lightning which struck at 0956Z just north of the end of runway 2/20 at MIE:
South Bend, Indiana: SPECI KSBN 272207Z 04007KT 2 1/2SM R27L/6000VP6000FT +TSRA FEW023 BKN045 BKN100 21/17 A2981 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT SW AND W TSB02 P0005 T02060167 METAR KSBN 272154Z 11009KT 10SM VCTS -RA SCT038 SCT055 BKN075 22/17 A2980 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT SW AND W RAB35 SLP090 P0000 T02220167 SPECI KSBN 272151Z 11008KT 10SM VCTS -RA SCT036 SCT043 BKN060 22/17 A2981 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT SW RAB35 P0000
ALDARS began the thunderstorm at 2202Z, meaning it first detected lightning within 5 miles of SBN at that time. However, it appears lightning struck at or near an airport parking lot at 2151Z:
If that data is correct- and 17 lightning sensors detected that bolt- ALDARS was 11 minutes late in getting TS into present weather. 3 other bolts struck near the airport in the interim.
Terre Haute, Indiana: SPECI KHUF 260836Z 33006KT 5SM R05/5500VP6000FT -RA BR FEW034 BKN043 OVC090 20/18 A3006 RMK AO2 PK WND 30026/0809 RAB20 P0010 T02000178 SPECI KHUF 260821Z 29011G26KT 8SM VCTS -RA FEW026 BKN043 OVC050 23/17 A3006 RMK AO2 PK WND 30026/0809 LTG DSNT NE RAB20 PRESRR P0002 T02280167
VCTS was reported; TS was justified for lightning at 0815Z:
Burlington, Iowa: SPECI KBRL 290020Z AUTO 33028G59KT 1/4SM +TSRA FG SCT007 BKN017 OVC025 16/15 A2979 RMK AO2 PK WND 33059/0019 WSHFT 0002 LTG DSNT ALQDS TSB07E18 PRESRR P0097 T01610150
An 11-minute (severe) thunderstorm was recorded in remarks, even though TS was still reported in present weather.
Waterloo, Iowa: SPECI KALO 271311Z 12013G19KT 1 1/4SM R12/3000VP6000FT +TSRA BR FEW007 BKN023 OVC095 18/18 A2982 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS TSB11 P0036 T01830178 SPECI KALO 271307Z 11011KT 1SM R12/3000VP6000FT +RA BR SCT013 BKN023 OVC090 19/18 A2982 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS P0034 T01890178 SPECI KALO 271300Z 18011KT 2SM R12/3500VP6000FT +RA BR FEW013 BKN024 OVC090 19/17 A2986 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS PRESRR P0003 T01890172 METAR KALO 271254Z 13008KT 7SM -RA FEW023 SCT055 BKN100 19/17 A2983 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT SE-SW RAB46 SLP097 P0000 T01890172
LTG DSNT ALQDS was reported, with TS beginning at 1311Z. However, the NOL (Nearest Observed Lightning) struck from 1252Z-1259Z:
If ALDARS begins TS for lightning, except the 4 nearest strikes, how can users know when to trust it?
Manhattan, Kansas: METAR KMHK 281652Z 03010G23KT 1 1/4SM +TSRA BR FEW006 OVC019 18/17 A2961 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS TSB47 PRESFR SLP020 TS OVHD MOVG E P0039 T01780167 SPECI KMHK 281646Z VRB06G17KT 1 3/4SM VCTS +RA BR SCT006 OVC019 18/17 A2970 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS PRESRR TS OVHD MOVG E P0022 SPECI KMHK 281628Z 03006KT 10SM VCTS -RA FEW006 OVC018 18/17 A2965 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT S-NW P0001 T01830172
While ALDARS began TS at 1647Z, data shows lightning struck within 5 miles of MHK at 1636Z (green box, NW) and 1637Z (red box, SW).
Forbes Field, Topeka, Kansas: SPECI KFOE 270912Z AUTO 27012G21KT 10SM VCTS -RA FEW023 SCT039 OVC095 19/16 A2990 RMK AO2 PK WND 21040/0854 WSHFT 0848 LTG DSNT ALQDS P0014 T01940161 SPECI KFOE 270904Z AUTO 27016G33KT 2SM VCTS RA FEW024 BKN038 BKN065 21/17 A2990 RMK AO2 PK WND 21040/0854 WSHFT 0848 LTG DSNT ALQDS PRESRR P0014 T02060172 SPECI KFOE 270858Z AUTO 23020G40KT 1 3/4SM VCTS +RA FEW020 SCT029 BKN041 21/18 A2988 RMK AO2 PK WND 21040/0854 LTG DSNT ALQDS P0012 T02110183 METAR KFOE 270853Z AUTO 19024G36KT 6SM VCTS -RA FEW016 FEW029 BKN043 22/19 A2987 RMK AO2 PK WND 21036/0853 LTG DSNT S-NW RAB50 PRESRR SLP105 P0002 60002 T02220194 55009
VCTS was reported; TS was justified:
Lightning data showed a bolt struck the airport at 0856Z, without ALDARS reporting TS!
Lexington, Kentucky: SPECI KLEX 291829Z 22009KT 4SM RA BR FEW090 OVC110 19/17 A2996 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS PRESRR P0008 T01940172 SPECI KLEX 291814Z 23005KT 4SM VCTS RA BKN100 OVC110 19/17 A2993 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS P0004 T01940167 SPECI KLEX 291758Z 23003KT 5SM RA SCT055 BKN095 OVC110 19/17 A2991 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS P0000 T01940167
VCTS was reported; TS was warranted for the strike at 1805Z.
To be continued in next post...
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Post by tornado on May 30, 2019 13:26:58 GMT -5
...part 2, continued from last post.
Bowman Field Airport, Louisville, Kentucky: METAR KLOU 291453Z 20004KT 6SM RA BR FEW046 BKN070 OVC110 21/18 A2987 RMK AO2 SLP110 P0042 60042 T02060183 53023 SPECI KLOU 291418Z 04003KT 9SM -RA FEW012 SCT027 OVC060 21/18 A2986 RMK AO2 P0039 T02060183 SPECI KLOU 291411Z 00000KT 2SM RA BR FEW012 BKN029 OVC060 20/18 A2986 RMK AO2 P0039 T02000183 SPECI KLOU 291403Z 27006G23KT 1/2SM +RA FG SCT014 BKN029 OVC038 20/18 A2988 RMK AO2 PRESRR P0037 T02000178 SPECI KLOU 291356Z 30013G27KT 3/4SM RA FEW018 BKN032 OVC038 22/17 A2987 RMK AO2 PRESRR P0010 T02220172
No lightning or thunder was reported that hour. Shame:
Beginning at 1350Z (green box to the WNW of LOU), there were many lightning strikes within 5 miles of LOU that hour. Instead of +RA, the weather code should have been +TSRA when the airfield was low IFR at 1403Z. LAWRS also did not report any of that lightning, even though 2 bolts struck within a mile of the control tower!
What is even more perplexing, is that the lightning strike plotted in orange at 1711Z, did result in a thunderstorm being started:
SPECI KLOU 291719Z 19007KT 7SM TSRA BKN110 21/19 A2988 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS TSB13 P0004 T02060189
ALDARS is fickle, reporting some thunderstorms but not others! The wind, ceiling and visibility were all worse with the unreported thunderstorm.
Salisbury, Maryland: SPECI KSBY 270537Z AUTO 16008KT 6SM RA BR SCT035 BKN047 OVC060 21/21 A2991 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT S AND SW TSB06E21 P0005 T02110206 SPECI KSBY 270527Z AUTO 17007KT 6SM VCTS RA BR BKN035 BKN047 OVC070 21/21 A2992 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT SE-SW TSB06E21 P0003 T02110206 SPECI KSBY 270506Z AUTO 18007KT 7SM -TSRA SCT050 BKN065 OVC080 21/21 A2992 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT SE-SW TSB06 P0001 T02110206
ALDARS ended TS at 0521Z. A bolt which struck about 1 mile to the S of SBY at 0519Z, should have kept TS in present weather until 0534Z.
Barnstable Municipal-Boardman Airport, Hyannis, Massachusetts: SPECI KHYA 260634Z AUTO 19006KT 10SM OVC050 14/11 A3000 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT N-E RAB07E22 P0004 T01390111 METAR KHYA 260556Z AUTO 21007KT 10SM VCTS BKN055 BKN070 OVC100 15/09 A3002 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT NW SLP167 T01500094 10167 20139 58019
VCTS was reported; TS was warranted for lightning within 5 miles of HYA at 0602Z-0604Z:
Barnes Municipal Airport, Westfield, Massachusetts: METAR KBAF 260453Z AUTO 18004KT 7SM -RA OVC038 12/10 A2998 RMK AO2 RAB14 TSB15 SLP153 P0015 T01170100 402390067 SPECI KBAF 260449Z AUTO 17004KT 6SM RA BR OVC038 12/10 A2999 RMK AO2 RAB14 TSB15 P0015 SPECI KBAF 260421Z AUTO 20012KT 5SM +TSRA OVC038 13/08 A3001 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT W RAB14 TSB15 P0005 T01330083
No TSE time was recorded.
Ann Arbor, Michigan: METAR KARB 290653Z AUTO 08005KT 3SM RA BR FEW004 BKN017 OVC049 14/13 A2977 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT SE RAB0554 PRESFR SLP076 P0004 T01390133 SPECI KARB 290614Z AUTO 34005KT 8SM VCTS -RA OVC018 14/13 A2980 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT S-NW RAB0554 P0002 T01440133 VCTS was reported; TS was warranted for lightning within 5 miles of ARB at 0617Z:
Jackson, Michigan: METAR KJXN 290656Z AUTO VRB03KT 10SM BKN005 OVC014 13/13 A2979 RMK AO2 RAE45 TSE09B12 PRESRR SLP085 P0014 T01330128 SPECI KJXN 290646Z AUTO 07005KT 9SM FEW005 BKN014 OVC080 13/13 A2977 RMK AO2 RAE45 TSE09B12 P0014 T01280128 SPECI KJXN 290641Z AUTO 06006KT 7SM -RA SCT011 BKN018 OVC075 13/13 A2975 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT NE AND E TSE09B12 P0014 T01280128 SPECI KJXN 290633Z AUTO 06007KT 4SM -RA BR FEW004 BKN055 OVC075 13/13 A2976 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT NE-SE TSE09B12 P0014 T01280128 SPECI KJXN 290607Z AUTO 35006KT 3SM TSRA BR SCT009 SCT025 OVC039 13/13 A2982 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS PRESFR P0004 T01330128
ALDARS claimed the thunderstorm restarted at 0612Z, yet TS or even VCTS did not appear in present weather after that time.
Branson, Missouri: METAR KBBG 261747Z 33009KT 10SM SCT035 BKN100 22/19 A3019 RMK LTG DSNT SE AND S SPECI KBBG 261711Z 33009KT 8SM -VCTSRA FEW012 SCT024 BKN048 20/20 A3019 RMK LTG DSNT E-S METAR KBBG 261650Z 31014G18KT 7SM -RA SC6T005 BKN025 OVC030 22/20 A3018
VCTS was reported; TS was needed for the lightning at 1708Z:
METAR KBBG 290855Z AUTO 16005KT 7SM VCTS -RA FEW003 SCT065 OVC100 22/20 A2979 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS P0003 METAR KBBG 290835Z AUTO 19004KT 5SM VCTS -RA FEW035 SCT060 BKN080 23/20 A2978 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS P0002 METAR KBBG 290815Z AUTO 00000KT 10SM FEW060 SCT080 BKN110 22/19 A2977 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT E-SW
VCTS was reported; TS was needed for the lightning at 0827Z:
Columbia, Missouri: METAR KCOU 292254Z 24011G22KT 8SM -RA FEW055 SCT080 OVC100 20/17 A2979 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT NW RAB04 SLP081 P0026 T02000167 SPECI KCOU 292217Z 25012G23KT 1 3/4SM RA FEW027 BKN043 OVC110 23/19 A2976 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT SW AND W RAB04 P0005 T02280189 METAR KCOU 292154Z 22006KT 10SM SCT030 SCT049 26/21 A2976 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT SW SLP069 T02560211
LTG DSNT was reported; TS was warranted for LTG at 2221Z.
Kansas City Downtown Airport, Missouri: METAR KMKC 260554Z 23003KT 10SM VCTS -RA SCT046 BKN065 BKN100 20/17 A3002 RMK AO2 PK WND 28034/0501 WSHFT 0442 SLP158 P0010 60021 T02000172 10267 20200 402830183 51021 SPECI KMKC 260529Z 25009KT 10SM VCTS -RA SCT037 OVC046 21/18 A3003 RMK AO2 PK WND 28034/0501 WSHFT 0442 LTG DSNT N AND NE AND SW P0006 T02060178
Lightning 2-3 miles to the NE-E (green boxes) was reported as VCTS:
Spirit Of St. Louis Airport, Missouri: SPECI KSUS 292244Z 19015G24KT 2 1/2SM R08R/4500VP6000FT TSRA BKN040 BKN070 OVC085 23/18 A2972 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT E-SW RAB31 TSE07 P0013 T02330183 SPECI KSUS 292238Z 17011G18KT 130V190 1 3/4SM R08R/4000VP6000FT +RA OVC040 22/18 A2972 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS RAB31 TSE07 P0011 T02220178 SPECI KSUS 292214Z 21003KT 10SM BKN042 BKN049 OVC110 24/16 A2973 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT E-SW TSE07 T02440156
While ALDARS did not include a TSB time for when the thunderstorm restarted, it had to have been after the 2238Z SPECI. Yet, a lightning strike at 2220Z near the airport (green box) didn’t get properly reported:
Bozeman, Montana: SPECI KBZN 270219Z 1 3/4SM +RA FEW030 OVC041 09/07 A2996 RMK AO2 RAB06 P0009 T00940067 METAR KBZN 270156Z 27013KT 10SM BKN046 BKN055 OVC065 11/06 A2994 RMK AO2 PK WND 26027/0112 WSHFT 0059 LTG DSNT SE SLP129 T01060056 SPECI KBZN 270119Z 26019G27KT 10SM BKN070 BKN080 12/07 A2991 RMK AO2 PK WND 26027/0112 WSHFT 0059 LTG DSNT SE-W T01220067 METAR KBZN 270056Z 20008KT 10SM CLR 16/07 A2989 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS SLP104 T01560072
VCTS should have been reported twice during that period:
The green range ring is set at 10 miles around BZN; BZN is closer to Belgrade than Bozeman.
Lincoln, Nebraska: SPECI KLNK 270745Z AUTO 12018G23KT 2 1/2SM +TSRA BR SCT009 BKN014 OVC023 19/18 A2975 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS RAB37 TSB41 P0009 T01890178 SPECI KLNK 270735Z AUTO 11015KT 10SM VCTS FEW008 BKN014 OVC036 19/18 A2975 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS T01940178 SPECI KLNK 270730Z AUTO 11013G19KT 10SM VCTS FEW008 BKN019 OVC055 19/18 A2975 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT S-NW T01940178
ALDARS: lightning within 5 miles of LNK began at 0741Z. Lightning data: lightning within 5 miles of LNK struck at 0727Z (SW) and 0730Z (E):
Hobbs, New Mexico: A recent post established that ALDARS is enabled at Lea County Airport in Hobbs, as both VCTS and LTG DSNT have been reported this month while ASOS was in AUTO mode. So what happened here?
METAR KHOB 261750Z 15016G24KT 5SM RA SCT021 BKN037 BKN050 22/19 A3001 RMK TS SE MOV NNE METAR KHOB 261650Z 17014G20KT 10SM BKN018 24/18 A3001
LAWRS added a thunderstorm remark, but well after the lightning had begun striking within 5 miles of HOB:
Republic Airport, Farmingdale, New York: SPECI KFRG 292332Z 13003KT 2SM +RA BR SCT006 BKN010 OVC024 13/12 A2977 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT SE-SW P0038 T01280122 SPECI KFRG 292319Z 34004KT 1 3/4SM +RA BR BKN008 BKN015 OVC050 13/12 A2979 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS PRESRR P0025 T01280122 SPECI KFRG 292305Z 12008KT 3SM +RA BR BKN009 BKN017 OVC030 13/12 A2974 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT S-NW P0008 T01330122
LTG DSNT was reported; TS was justified for the lightning at 2310Z.
Ithaca, New York: METAR KITH 252356Z 16010KT 10SM FEW090 19/16 A2993 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT N AND SW TSB41E44B45E46B47E56RAB04E44 SLP131 P0000 60003 T01940161 10239 20194 58004
ALDARS had a few glitches that hour.
Smith Reynolds Airport, Winston Salem, North Carolina: METAR KINT 292354Z 34011G21KT 3SM -RA FEW042 SCT060 OVC075 22/19 A2988 RMK AO2 PK WND 32032/2338 WSHFT 2326 RAB45 SLP108 P0004 60004 T02220194 10333 20222 53012 SPECI KINT 292346Z 33015G32KT 8SM -RA SCT060 BKN075 BKN085 24/18 A2989 RMK AO2 PK WND 32032/2338 WSHFT 2326 RAB45 P0000 T02390183 METAR KINT 292254Z 23007KT 10SM CLR 32/17 A2986 RMK AO2 SLP098 T03170167
Lightning wasn’t even mentioned that hour. A thunderstorm was responsible for the wind gust to 32 knots:
ALDARS missed lightning very close to the airport- but so did LAWRS.
Burke Lakefront Airport, Cleveland, Ohio: SPECI KBKL 262108Z 06007KT 3SM VCTS -RA BR OVC002 17/16 A3001 RMK AO2 TSE2056 P0011 T01720161 SPECI KBKL 262103Z 06006KT 1 1/4SM VCTS RA BR OVC002 17/16 A3001 RMK AO2 TSE2056 P0011 T01670156 SPECI KBKL 262056Z 05006KT 3/4SM VCTS +RA BR VV014 17/16 A3001 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT E TSE56 P0007 T01670156 METAR KBKL 262053Z 04005KT 1/2SM +TSRA FG OVC002 17/15 A3001 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT E RAB11 TSB46 SLP161 TS SW MOV E P0025 60028 T01670150 56002
A thunderstorm which began at 2046Z, was ended by ALDARS at 2056Z, by changing TS to VCTS. That is against the rule of TS lasting a minimum of 15 minutes.
Lightning struck within 5 miles of BKL at 2047Z, meaning that TS couldn’t have ended before 2102Z.
Ohio State University Airport, Columbus, Ohio: METAR KOSU 261153Z 33017G26KT 4SM RA BR FEW025 BKN095 OVC110 19/17 A3008 RMK AO2 PK WND 28037/1131 WSHFT 1128 LTG DSNT ALQDS RAB31 TSB40E45 SLP179 P0002 60002 70003 T01890172 10211 20183 53021 SPECI KOSU 261146Z 33019G35KT 4SM RA BR FEW024 BKN060 OVC110 19/17 A3008 RMK AO2 PK WND 28037/1131 WSHFT 1128 LTG DSNT ALQDS RAB31 TSB40E45 P0002 T01890172 SPECI KOSU 261134Z 29023G37KT 9SM VCTS -RA FEW026 SCT046 BKN080 21/19 A3009 RMK AO2 PK WND 28037/1131 LTG DSNT SW-N RAB31 PRESRR P0001 T02110189
A 5-minute thunderstorm was reported. That was not reported in present weather, and happened after the VCTS; yet, TS ought to have been reported for lightning within 5 miles of OSU at 1137Z:
Capital City Airport, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania: SPECI KCXY 282140Z 00000KT 10SM VCTS FEW027 SCT050 BKN070 23/19 A2967 RMK AO2 PK WND 32046/2117 LTG DSNT NE AND E RAB14E37 TSB19E34 TS MVD E T02330194 $ SPECI KCXY 282130Z 36005KT 10SM -TSRA FEW027 BKN060 OVC075 23/19 A2967 RMK AO2 PK WND 32046/2117 LTG DSNT N AND NE RAB14 TSB19 TS N MVG E T02330189 PNO $ SPECI KCXY 282128Z 01004G30KT 1 1/2SM R08/2400VP6000FT -TSRA FEW025 BKN050 BKN065 23/19 A2967 RMK AO2 PK WND 32046/2117 LTG DSNT N AND NE RAB14 TSB19 TS N MVG E T02330189 PNO $ SPECI KCXY 282119Z 34028G46KT 3/4SM R08/2200VP6000FT +TSRA SQ FEW028 SCT055 BKN070 26/20 A2968 RMK AO2 PK WND 32046/2117 LTG DSNT N AND NE RAB14 TSB19 PRESRR TS N MVG E P0000 T02560200 SPECI KCXY 282117Z 31024G46KT 1 1/2SM R08/4000VP6000FT +RA FEW039 SCT055 BKN075 28/21 A2967 RMK AO2 PK WND 32046/2117 LTG DSNT N AND NE RAB14 TS N MVG E P0000 T02780211 METAR KCXY 282056Z 23007KT 10SM FEW060 SCT080 30/20 A2966 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT NE SLP042 T03000200 55019
ALDARS would have us believe that the near-severe thunderstorm lasted the minimum of 15 minutes (2119Z-2134Z). Lightning data showed strikes from 2117Z-2124Z (see inserts):
Johnstown, Pennsylvania: SPECI KJST 290323Z AUTO VRB03KT 9SM -RA BKN033 BKN046 OVC055 17/16 A2984 RMK AO2 TSE17 P0003 T01720156 TSNO SPECI KJST 290256Z AUTO 34007G23KT 3SM TSRA BR FEW011 BKN031 OVC090 18/16 A2984 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS P0000 T01780156
Did ASOS end the thunderstorm at 0323Z because of the ALDARS outage?
Latrobe, Pennsylvania: METAR KLBE 280755Z AUTO 21007KT 6SM RA SCT022 BKN031 OVC080 18/18 A2986 RMK AO2 METAR KLBE 280735Z AUTO 22006KT 4SM VCTS RA SCT023 BKN031 OVC045 19/19 A2987 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT N AND S AND SW METAR KLBE 280715Z AUTO 19008KT 10SM RA FEW019 BKN046 OVC065 19/18 A2985 RMK AO2
VCTS was reported; TS was warranted:
ALDARS reported a lightning strike to the runway, as VCTS!
METAR KLBE 292050Z 21005KT 8SM SCT017 BKN041 20/20 A2975 METAR KLBE 291950Z 29012KT 5SM -RA BKN013 20/20 A2973 RMK T MOVD E METAR KLBE 291851Z 21012KT 10SM TSRA FEW035 FEW095 25/21 A2970
What happened here? TS was reported until 1950Z, fair enough. Lightning data showed a strike to the airport at 1926Z. But it also showed lightning strikes to the airport at 2012Z and 2013Z, for which no thunderstorm was reported:
The case from the 28th shows that ALDARS is enabled at LBE, since VCTS was reported while ASOS was in AUTO mode. That marked the 2nd day in a row when TS was not reported for LTGCG AT AP at LBE!
Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport, Pennsylvania: SPECI KAVP 292026Z 01011G29KT 1SM R04/1800VP6000FT TSRA BR SCT015 BKN041 OVC080 21/19 A2964 RMK AO2 PK WND 33029/2018 LTG DSNT ALQDS RAB17 TSB20 P0021 T02060194 SPECI KAVP 292019Z 32020G29KT 300V010 1 1/2SM R04/1800VP6000FT VCTS +RA BR FEW009 BKN050 OVC095 23/21 A2964 RMK AO2 PK WND 33029/2018 LTG DSNT ALQDS RAB17 P0000 T02280206 SPECI KAVP 292006Z 23003KT 6SM VCTS BR FEW055 BKN075 BKN095 23/21 A2961 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS T02330211
ALDARS claimed TS (lightning within 5 miles of AVP) began at 2020Z, though that information wasn’t transmitted in a report until 2026Z. VCTS was reported on the 2019Z SPECI, even after lightning struck the airport at 2012Z:
Lightning also struck at 2011Z SW and NW. Is the 8-14 minute delay in getting LTGCG AT AP information reported acceptable?
Williamsport, Pennsylvania: SPECI KIPT 261804Z 31011KT 3SM -TSRA FEW048 SCT075 BKN090 23/20 A2993 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT NE AND W TSB1758 P0004 T02280200 $ METAR KIPT 261754Z 23009KT 5SM RA FEW065 BKN090 BKN110 24/19 A2992 RMK AO2 RAB45 TSE19 SLP129 TS W MOV E P0001 60001 T02440194 10278 20189 56016 $ SPECI KIPT 261740Z 23008KT 10SM CLR 26/18 A2991 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT S TSE19 TS W MOV E T02610183 $ SPECI KIPT 261725Z 23007KT 10SM VCTS CLR 27/18 A2992 RMK AO2 TSE19 TS W MOV E T02670183 $
Though ALDARS did not begin TS until 1758Z, TS was warranted for lightning striking at 1745Z (green boxes), and 1748Z (red box):
The insert shows those bolts struck within 5 miles of IPT.
Denton, Texas: METAR KDTO 292053Z 01008KT 10SM VCTS -RA BKN035 21/19 A2973 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT W-NE RAE1929B1951B1955 TSE19181956B19181959E1914B1957E45 SLP059 P0065 60114 T02060194 $
ALDARS went haywire with its TS time remarks. That may have happened because of this:
SPECI KDTO 291957Z 34009KT 310V010 -TSRA A2972 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS RAE29B51B55 TSE1856B1859E14B57 P0024 $ METAR KDTO 291953Z NIL SPECI KDTO 291921Z 01009KT 10SM VCTS -RA FEW009 BKN035 OVC095 21/19 A2974 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS TSE1856B1859E14 P0023 T02060194
The missing METAR confused ALDARS, which then botched the TS time group.
Mesquite, Texas: METAR KHQZ 292050Z 15005KT 10SM VCTS SCT035 SCT043 BKN050 25/24 A2971 RMK TSB2000 SPECI KHQZ 292000Z 17009G18KT 3SM TSRA SCT045 SCT075 OVC110 25/23 A2973 RMK TSB2000 METAR KHQZ 291950Z 18008KT 10SM -RA SCT055 SCT090 BKN120 26/23 A2972 METAR KHQZ 291850Z 16012G17KT 5SM -RA SCT009 BKN036 27/23 A2973
ALDARS claimed TS began right at 2000Z. Lightning data shows cloud-to-ground strikes within 5 miles of HQZ at 1917Z (green box, NNW) and 1935Z (red box, NE), both of which were about 3 miles from the airport:
Charlottesville, Virginia: SPECI KCHO 270314Z AUTO 04005KT 2 1/2SM VCTS -RA FEW044 SCT060 BKN090 24/21 A2997 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT E AND SE RAB00 P0003 T02390211 SPECI KCHO 270307Z AUTO 00000KT 2SM +RA BR SCT039 BKN060 23/21 A2997 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT NE-SE RAB00 P0001 T02330211 TSNO METAR KCHO 270253Z 03009KT 10SM TS SCT060 SCT075 BKN090 24/21 A2996 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT NE AND SE RAB11E45 TSB13E28B32 SLP136 TS ALQDS AND OHD MOV SE P0001 60001 T02390211 53001
TS disappeared from present weather at 0307Z because of an ALDARS outage (TSNO).
SPECI KCHO 281121Z 35004KT 4SM BR FEW007 BKN060 BKN085 21/18 A2990 RMK AO2 RAE19 TSB04 P0000 T02060183 SPECI KCHO 281110Z 00000KT 4SM -TSRA BR SCT060 BKN080 OVC110 21/18 A2989 RMK AO2 TSB04 P0000 T02060183
No TSE time was recorded.
Clarksburg, West Virginia: SPECI KCKB 280950Z AUTO 10004KT 8SM -TSRA SCT044 BKN060 OVC090 20/17 A2984 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT N AND NW RAB01 TSB44 P0001 SPECI KCKB 280935Z AUTO 08003KT 10SM VCTS -RA SCT090 OVC110 20/17 A2984 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT N AND NW RAB01 P0000 T02000172
The nearest observed lightning did not result in ALDARS beginning a TS:
That bolt struck at 0925Z; ALDARS did not begin TS until 0944Z- a delay of 19 minutes.
Cheyenne, Wyoming: SPECI KCYS 260638Z AUTO 15009KT 1 3/4SM TSRA BR BKN011 OVC016 10/09 A3004 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT SE AND S RAB12 TSB32 P0028 T01000089 SPECI KCYS 260629Z AUTO 22008KT 1 3/4SM VCTS +RA BR OVC011 11/09 A3005 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT NE-S RAB12 P0000 T01110094 SPECI KCYS 260608Z AUTO VRB05KT 10SM VCTS OVC012 12/09 A3002 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT N AND S AND SW T01170089 SPECI KCYS 260600Z AUTO 15010KT 9SM OVC014 12/08 A3002 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT N AND S AND SW T01170083 METAR KCYS 260553Z AUTO 15008KT 10SM VCTS OVC016 12/08 A3003 RMK AO2 PK WND 15027/0458 LTG DSNT S AND SW RAE12 TSB35E53 SLP106 P0001 60001 T01170078 10194 20117 50006 SPECI KCYS 260541Z AUTO 13010KT 10SM TS BKN016 OVC021 12/08 A3003 RMK AO2 PK WND 15027/0458 LTG DSNT S RAE12 TSB35 P0001 T01170078
ALDARS recorded 2 thunderstorms within 5 miles of CYS (TS) during the period above: from 0535Z-0553Z, and again beginning at 0632Z. Looking at the insert on the lightning map, there were 4 cloud-to-ground strikes closer than the rest, clustered to the south of CYS:
But the main lightning map reveals the problem: the nearest lightning strikes were at 0623Z-0624Z, during VCTS, with TS not begun for another 8-9 minutes. Since ALDARS takes up to 6 minutes to report lightning strikes, it can be said that it either mis-ranged the distance to those 4 strikes, or did not detect them at all!
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Post by tornado on Jun 5, 2019 15:03:15 GMT -5
Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Fri 31 May 2019: METAR KINT 312054Z 14005KT 10SM FEW018 BKN095 BKN110 21/19 A2982 RMK AO2 RAB06E44 SLP089 P0048 60048 T02060194 55012 SPECI KINT 312038Z 36007KT 3SM -RA BR SCT018 BKN043 OVC110 21/19 A2983 RMK AO2 RAB06 P0048 T02060194 SPECI KINT 312035Z 02007KT 1SM -RA BR BKN018 OVC043 21/19 A2983 RMK AO2 RAB06 P0048 T02060194 SPECI KINT 312027Z 14007G20KT 110V180 1/2SM +RA FG SCT018 BKN043 OVC050 20/19 A2984 RMK AO2 RAB06 P0044 T02000189 SPECI KINT 312017Z 29009KT 1 3/4SM +RA OVC048 22/18 A2983 RMK AO2 RAB06 PRESRR P0011 T02220183
Notice that, despite the heavy rain and poor visibility, there were no lightning or thunder remarks that hour. Lightning data revealed strikes nearby:
There were several lightning strikes (11 on this map alone) within 5 miles of INT, with the nearest being twin strikes at 2019Z. Another bolt about a mile from the control tower struck at 2016Z. How is it that both ALDARS and LAWRS missed that obvious thunderstorm?
Beaumont-Port Arthur, Texas: METAR KBPT 312253Z 01018G25KT 10SM VCTS -RA SCT027 BKN070 OVC085 23/22 A2995 RMK AO2 PK WND 32032/2214 WSHFT 2203 LTG DSNT NE AND E RAB15 SLP141 P0050 T02330222 SPECI KBPT 312242Z 35014G21KT 3SM R12/5500VP6000FT VCTS RA BR BKN022 BKN040 OVC070 23/22 A2996 RMK AO2 PK WND 32032/2214 WSHFT 2203 LTG DSNT NE AND E RAB15 P0050 T02330217 SPECI KBPT 312238Z 35015G22KT 1 1/2SM R12/4000VP6000FT VCTS +RA BR BKN022 BKN040 OVC065 23/22 A2996 RMK AO2 PK WND 32032/2214 WSHFT 2203 LTG DSNT NE RAB15 P0049 T02330217 SPECI KBPT 312223Z 31019G32KT 1/2SM R12/2400VP6000FT VCTS +RA SCT015 BKN023 BKN035 23/21 A2998 RMK AO2 PK WND 32032/2214 WSHFT 2203 LTG DSNT N AND NE RAB15 P0011 T02330206 SPECI KBPT 312220Z 31022G32KT 1 1/4SM R12/2600VP6000FT VCTS +RA FEW017 SCT021 BKN037 24/21 A2997 RMK AO2 PK WND 32032/2214 WSHFT 2203 LTG DSNT N AND NE RAB15 P0001 T02390206 SPECI KBPT 312218Z 31023G32KT 2 1/2SM R12/3000VP6000FT VCTS RA SCT021 SCT028 BKN037 24/20 A2997 RMK AO2 PK WND 32032/2214 WSHFT 2203 LTG DSNT N AND NE RAB15 P0000 T02440200 SPECI KBPT 312209Z 30020G27KT 10SM VCTS FEW023 SCT034 SCT050 27/21 A2997 RMK AO2 PK WND 30027/2208 LTG DSNT W-NE PRESRR T02670206
For VCTS to be accurate during the above time period, there would have to be no lightning strikes within 5 miles of BPT. That wasn’t the case:
At 2216Z, and 2225Z, lightning struck within 2 miles of BPT. How is it that VCTS didn’t get upgraded to TS? That was right around the time the prevailing visibility was ½ SM +RA, so perhaps LAWRS was busy. That doesn’t explain the behavior of ALDARS though.
Midland, Texas: METAR KMAF 311153Z 07007KT 10SM VCTS FEW018 OVC025 18/17 A3009 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT E AND SE RAB16E33 SLP150 P0002 60008 70010 T01830172 10200 20183 53008 SPECI KMAF 311145Z 07009KT 10SM VCTS FEW018 BKN025 OVC031 18/17 A3008 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT E AND SE RAB16E33 P0002 T01830172 SPECI KMAF 311119Z 06009KT 8SM VCTS RA FEW019 BKN033 OVC080 18/17 A3008 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT E-SW RAB16 P0002 T01830172 METAR KMAF 311053Z 04011KT 10SM VCTS BKN019 OVC030 19/18 A3007 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT SE RAB09E37 SLP143 P0006 T01890178 SPECI KMAF 311046Z 04008KT 10SM VCTS OVC019 19/18 A3008 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT E AND SE RAB09E37 P0006 T01890178 SPECI KMAF 311035Z 03008KT 10SM -RA OVC019 19/17 A3008 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT N-SE RAB09 P0006 T01890172 METAR KMAF 310953Z AUTO 03007KT 10SM VCTS OVC021 20/17 A3007 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT N AND SE SLP143 T02000172 SPECI KMAF 310931Z AUTO 04007KT 10SM VCTS BKN023 BKN033 OVC045 20/17 A3006 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT N AND SE AND S T02000172
LTG DSNT and VCTS were reported during the period. However, 6 lightning bolts struck within 5 miles of MAF, meeting TS criteria:
The 3 nearest strikes, from E-S, hit at 0920Z, 0947Z and 1004Z. ALDARS did not change VCTS to TS, as warranted.
Lynchburg, Virginia: SPECI KLYH 312231Z 07006KT 4SM R04/5500VP6000FT +RA FEW060 SCT075 OVC095 20/16 A2980 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS RAB2155 PRESFR TS SW MOV E P0001 T02000161 SPECI KLYH 312205Z 27008KT 10SM VCTS -RA BKN080 22/18 A2983 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS RAB2155 PRESRR TS SW MOV E P0000 T02170178
LAWRS entered the TS SW MOV E remark, while ALDARS recorded VCTS. What didn’t get entered, was TS in present weather.
Lightning struck the runway at 2213Z! Or at least, the best-resolved strike position was plotted as the yellow dot on runway 04/22; the bolt could have struck anywhere within the yellow “deviation circle”. That still means ALDARS erroneously reported the bolt as VCTS, which surely produced audible thunder at the control tower.
Norfolk Intl Airport, Virginia: There were no lightning or thunderstorm remarks at ORF on May 31st (UTC), nor did TS or VCTS appear in present weather. Also, there were no reports of IFR/MVFR ceilings, or even visibility of less than 10 miles. Yet, there was a wind gust to 30 knots recorded, and some rain:
METAR KORF 310451Z 33010G17KT 290V010 10SM -RA FEW032 BKN075 OVC095 22/19 A2981 RMK AO2 PK WND 30030/0414 SLP095 P0028 T02170194 403720211 Somehow, this much lightning struck near ORF that day, without producing much bad weather:
The green range ring is set at 5SM around ORF. It appears 2 separate thunderstorms were
missed. Did ALDARS/LAWRS not report the TS hazards, because weather at the actual airport was not that bad?
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That clears the issues from May 2019. May is typically the busiest month for lightning. On to June!
Ft. Pierce, Florida: METAR KFPR 011853Z 18010G16KT 10SM FEW110 23/19 A2992 RMK AO2 RAE20 SLP131 P0000 T02330194 METAR KFPR 011753Z 20006KT 6SM -RA SCT050 BKN065 OVC100 26/23 A2993 RMK AO2 SLP134 P0025 60090 T02610233 10311 20250 58010 SPECI KFPR 011704Z 09010KT 5SM RA BR SCT024 BKN047 OVC060 25/23 A2995 RMK AO2 P0020 T02500228 SPECI KFPR 011702Z 10008KT 5SM RA BR SCT026 BKN047 OVC060 25/23 A2995 RMK AO2 P0017 T02500228 METAR KFPR 011653Z 10008KT 2 1/2SM +RA FEW033 BKN043 OVC060 26/23 A2996 RMK AO2 RAB1557 SLP143 P0055 T02560228 SPECI KFPR 011638Z 12007KT 2SM -RA BR FEW018 BKN041 OVC070 26/23 A2995 RMK AO2 RAB1557 P0043 T02560233 SPECI KFPR 011623Z 17011KT 3/4SM +RA SCT022 BKN037 OVC060 27/23 A2996 RMK AO2 RAB1557 P0023 T02670233 SPECI KFPR 011618Z 15007KT 1 3/4SM +RA FEW022 BKN035 OVC060 28/23 A2996 RMK AO2 RAB1557 P0015 T02780228
During that rainy period, LTG/TS was not mentioned. However, it appears some lightning went unreported:
There were 11 lightning strikes within 5 miles of FPR, the nearest of which are plotted on the main map. Those hit at 1612Z and 1816Z. The 1612Z strike should have triggered +TSRA on 2 SPECIs, but ALDARS failed to do so.
Craig Field, Jacksonville Executive Airport, Florida: From 1823Z (2 bolts) to 1855Z, lightning struck within 5 miles of CRG:
Yet, instead of TS, VCTS was reported.
SPECI KCRG 041934Z 33008KT 7SM -RA FEW070 BKN090 OVC110 26/23 A3005 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT N AND W RAB02 P0002 T02610233 METAR KCRG 041853Z 16009KT 10SM VCTS CLR 30/21 A3003 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT SW-N PRESRR SLP170 T03000211 SPECI KCRG 041821Z 13012KT 9SM VCTS CLR 31/22 A3002 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT S-NW T03060217
New Smyrna Beach, Florida: METAR KEVB 031955Z 25012KT 4SM -RA SCT003 BKN037 23/22 A2999 SPECI KEVB 031920Z 07006KT 2 1/2SM RA BKN003 23/22 A2999 SPECI KEVB 031900Z 25013G18KT 1 1/2SM RABR BKN003 24/21 A2999 SPECI KEVB 031850Z 33005G17KT 8SM BKN060 28/22 A2997
From 1858Z-1932Z, 4 lightning bolts struck within 5 miles of EVB:
The IFR conditions were due to an unreported thunderstorm.
Pocatello, Idaho: SPECI KPIH 061427Z 01004KT 10SM TS BKN110 18/09 A2993 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT NE AND S TSE24B27 OCNL LTGCG S TS S MOV NE T01830094 METAR KPIH 061353Z 35013KT 10SM BKN110 15/08 A2992 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT SW SLP089 OCNL LTGCG DSNT N T01500078 ALDARS put TSE24 when it meant TSB24.
Grand Island, Nebraska: SPECI KGRI 050642Z AUTO 35014G23KT 10SM BKN060 21/16 A2982 RMK AO2 PK WND 31026/0624 WSHFT 0545 LTG DSNT NW-NE TSB18 T02110156 SPECI KGRI 050624Z AUTO 30019G26KT 10SM TS SCT060 SCT110 23/16 A2983 RMK AO2 PK WND 31026/0624 WSHFT 0545 LTG DSNT N AND NW TSB18 T02280161 No TSE time was recorded.
Winston-Salem, North Carolina: METAR KINT 030154Z AUTO 32012KT 5SM -RA SCT050 OVC075 20/17 A2991 RMK AO2 PK WND 31026/0129 WSHFT 0124 RAB37 SLP118 P0011 T02000172 TSNO SPECI KINT 030143Z AUTO 32012G20KT 2 1/2SM +RA SCT042 BKN075 OVC095 21/17 A2990 RMK AO2 PK WND 31026/0129 WSHFT 0124 RAB37 PRESRR P0010 T02060172 TSNO
Lightning struck at 0133Z and 3 seconds, at 6 locations near INT. It didn’t get reported, because ALDARS had been disabled and placed in TSNO mode overnight. Georgetown, Texas: METAR KGTU 050956Z AUTO 00000KT 6SM OVC003 23/23 A2989 RMK AO2 TSE0858B00E02B04E11B14E16B17E25B27E29 SLP115 P0004 T02330228
ALDARS had a conniption.
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Post by tornado on Jun 7, 2019 13:45:47 GMT -5
Panama City, Florida: SPECI KECP 062333Z 08006KT 6SM BR SCT007 24/23 A2984 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT S RAE32 TSB16E17 P0015 T02440233
A 1-minute thunderstorm was recorded.
Veterans Airport of Southern Illinois, Marion, Illinois: METAR KMWA 060215Z AUTO 34004KT 5SM RA SCT047 BKN060 OVC065 20/20 A2988 RMK AO2 T02000196 METAR KMWA 060155Z AUTO 09005KT 10SM -RA SCT044 OVC049 21/19 A2985 RMK AO2 T02050194
ALDARS missed the lightning which struck at 0158Z and 0201Z:
Acadiana Regional Airport, New Iberia, Louisiana: SPECI KARA 061107Z 19020G29KT 1 1/2SM +RA BR 26/26 A2969 RMK AO2 PK WND 19029/1101 LTG DSNT W-NE RAB1021B1044B1052 TSE1016B1040E1044E1052E1055 P0039 T02610261 $ (missing sky cover) SPECI KARA 061100Z AUTO 19021G28KT 2SM VCTS +RA BR 26/26 A2970 RMK AO2 PK WND 18028/1053 LTG DSNT ALQDS RAB1021B1044B1052 TSE1016B1040E1044E1052E1055 P0026 T02610256 $ (missing sky cover) SPECI KARA 061029Z 17027G33KT 10SM VCTS -RA 27/25 A2968 RMK AO2 PK WND 17033/1021 LTG DSNT ALQDS RAB21 TSE16 P0001 T02670250 $ (missing sky cover) METAR KARA 060953Z AUTO 16024G34KT 8SM TSRA SCT037 BKN044 OVC050 27/25 A2969 RMK AO2 PK WND 16034/0953 LTG DSNT ALQDS RAB37 TSB50 SLP052 P0003 T02670250 SPECI KARA 060940Z AUTO 16019G26KT 9SM VCTS -RA BKN042 OVC049 27/25 A2970 RMK AO2 PK WND 17026/0936 LTG DSNT ALQDS RAB37 P0000 T02670250
ALDARS recorded lightning within 5 miles (TS) of ARA from 0950Z-1001Z (TSE16). Lightning data showed bolts striking within 5 miles of ARA at other times:
Lightning met TS criteria at 0928Z, 1047Z, 1056Z and 1100Z. None of those bolts triggered ALDARS to upgrade VCTS to TS. Since the bolt plotted to the NNE of the airport at 0955Z was during the TS, that meant ALDARS accurately reported only 1 of the 5 bolts plotted on the map!
Baton Rouge, Louisiana: SPECI KBTR 061343Z 02006KT 2 1/2SM VCTS -RA BR BKN009 BKN040 OVC050 24/24 A2973 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT E-S P0280 T02440239 SPECI KBTR 061258Z 15015G20KT 1/2SM VCTS +RA BKN008 BKN013 OVC018 25/24 A2976 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS P0020 T02500244 RVRNO METAR KBTR 061253Z 16011KT 1 1/2SM VCTS +RA BKN008 BKN015 OVC037 25/25 A2976 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT SE AND SW TSE03 SLP077 P0084 T02500250 SPECI KBTR 061241Z 16009KT 1 1/2SM VCTS +RA BKN008 BKN015 OVC037 26/25 A2974 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT N AND S AND SW TSE03 P0043 T02560250 SPECI KBTR 061239Z 16010KT 1 1/2SM VCTS +RA FEW008 BKN021 OVC037 26/25 A2974 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT N AND S AND SW TSE03 P0033 T02560250 SPECI KBTR 061209Z 13013G19KT 1 1/2SM VCTS +RA BR BKN055 OVC065 26/25 A2973 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT S-NW TSE03 P0008 T02560250 METAR KBTR 061153Z 11015KT 3SM +TSRA BR FEW036 BKN055 OVC070 26/25 A2973 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT SW-NW TSB48 PRESFR SLP066 P0017 60039 70209 T02560250 10261 20233 58014
ALDARS recorded a 15-minute thunderstorm, the minimum time, from 1148Z-1203Z. That was based either on a single LTGCG strike, or multiple strikes during the same minute. However, lightning data shows the nearest lightning strikes to BTR occurred from 1219Z-1326Z that day:
So while ALDARS recorded TS, it recorded VCTS for the nearest lightning strikes, of which the 9 nearest strikes are plotted on the map above! Even the 1322Z strike just west of the airport on Veterans Memorial Boulevard didn’t result in TS getting reported. Perhaps the 2.80” of rainfall in 50 minutes interfered with the accuracy of ALDARS.
Branson, Missouri: METAR KBBG 062145Z 09011KT 4SM -RA BR OVC004 19/19 A2981 METAR KBBG 062050Z 10017G25KT 1SM +RA BR BKN003 BKN020 OVC030 20/19 A2981
TS could have been reported for lightning at 2055Z, but wasn’t.
Even VCTS criteria was met, for the lightning to the south of BBG, from 2050Z-2109Z (see insert).
Allegheny County Airport, nr Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania: SPECI KAGC 060524Z 22007KT 1 3/4SM R28/6000VP6000FT +RA BR FEW025 BKN060 OVC080 19/19 A2977 RMK AO2 RAB07 P0010 T01940189 METAR KAGC 060453Z 22005KT 5SM BR FEW025 SCT031 SCT040 19/19 A2977 RMK AO2 RAB10E26B42E51 SLP078 P0001 T01940189 402220156
The lightning at 0500Z went unreported:
Grand Strand Airport, North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina: SPECI KCRE 061837Z 24014G23KT 1/2SM +RA FG SCT017 BKN028 OVC055 23/22 A2992 RMK AO1 WSHFT 1823 RAB06 PRESRR P0045 T02330222 SPECI KCRE 061835Z 24014G23KT 3/4SM +RA BR FEW019 BKN036 OVC050 23/22 A2992 RMK AO1 RAB06 PRESRR P0036 T02330217 SPECI KCRE 061827Z 23016G22KT 2SM -RA BR FEW025 BKN035 OVC060 25/23 A2990 RMK AO1 RAB06 P0011 T02500228 METAR KCRE 061753Z 20015G19KT 10SM BKN034 OVC042 28/24 A2990 RMK AO1 LTG DSNT S AND SW SLP124 T02780239 10300 20250 56007
TS went unreported for lightning at 1753Z:
VCTS criteria was met for lightning strikes from 1749Z-1823Z (which meant VCTS would have ended at 1838Z).
Galveston, Texas: SPECI KGLS 060648Z AUTO 28010KT 10SM VCTS BKN008 OVC060 24/23 A2977 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT SE AND S METAR KGLS 060552Z AUTO 26008KT 10SM BKN007 24/23 A2975 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT E-SW SLP075 T02440233 10283 20244 402830244 50008 SPECI KGLS 060534Z AUTO 28009KT 10SM BKN007 BKN050 24/23 A2975 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT E-S T02440233 METAR KGLS 060452Z AUTO 28011KT 10SM FEW008 SCT031 BKN041 25/23 A2976 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT E AND SE SLP078 T02500233 SPECI KGLS 060416Z AUTO 27013KT 10SM FEW008 SCT032 BKN041 25/24 A2976 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT E-S T02500239
VCTS was begun at GLS at 0648Z. No TS was reported by GLS on 6 Jun, UTC (TS was reported on the 6th local time, beginning 07/0121Z). The following map is set to display all the lightning strikes on the 6th, UTC:
The insert in the upper right hand corner shows 7 lightning strikes within 5 miles of GLS on the 6th. The main map shows the times of the 3 nearest strikes were at 0422Z, 0546Z, and 0559Z. During and after those times, ALDARS was reporting LTG DSNT, when it should have been reporting TS!
Provo, Utah: SPECI KPVU 062247Z 08009KT 10SM FEW100 BKN150 OVC210 21/14 A2991 RMK AO2 PK WND 22041/2158 LTG DSNT NW-E TSE46RAB01E36 PNO $ SPECI KPVU 062242Z 07012KT 10SM VCTS SCT100 BKN150 OVC210 20/13 A2991 RMK AO2 PK WND 22041/2158 LTG DSNT NW-E RAB01E36 PNO $ METAR KPVU 062156Z 23030G40KT 10SM VCTS FEW060 SCT150 BKN210 25/11 A2994 RMK AO2 PK WND 22040/2155 LTG DSNT E-SW TSB52 PRESRR SLP090 T02500111 SPECI KPVU 061705Z VRB05KT 10SM SCT110 22/11 A3000 RMK AO2 TSE1659 METAR KPVU 061656Z 25006KT 10SM VCTS BKN110 23/10 A3000 RMK AO2 TSB44 SLP109 T02280100 SPECI KPVU 061447Z VRB03KT 10SM OVC100 18/12 A3003 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT S TSB20E41RAB24E37 P0000 SPECI KPVU 061426Z 33006KT 10SM VCTS -RA FEW037 BKN100 18/11 A3002 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT NE TSB20RAB24 P0000
3 times on June 6th, VCTS was reported at PVU by ALDARS. PVU is a site where TS beginning and ending times are recorded for VCTS. The problem was that no TS was reported, despite lightning within 5 miles of the airport:
2 thunderstorms (TS) went unreported. On the main map, lightning is shown to have struck within 5 miles of PVU at 1453Z (red plot to E), and twice at 2204Z (yellow plots). In the insert map in the upper right corner, 2 lightning bolts struck within 5 miles for the 1453Z TS (red dots), with 5 strikes (yellow dots) within the green 5-mile range ring around PVU for the 2204Z TS.
Norfolk Intl Airport, Virginia, Thu 6 Jun 2019: METAR KORF 062351Z 19012KT 10SM FEW048 SCT060 26/19 A2981 RMK AO2 SLP094 T02610189 10322 20261 53013 METAR KORF 062251Z 06003KT 10SM CLR 29/21 A2979 RMK AO2 SLP086 T02890206
There was "no adverse weather"- except a bunch of lightning strikes:
So, were there really that many lightning strikes, with no other associated bad weather, that went unreported by both ALDARS and LAWRS? Nearby Oceana Naval Air Station in Virginia Beach thought so:
METAR KNTU 062356Z 17006KT 3SM TS SCT020CB BKN075 BKN110 23/22 A2982 RMK AO2 PK WND 34027/2317 WSHFT 2303 RAE33 SLP100 CNS LTGICCCCG OHD TS OHD MOV E T1 SET P0114 60116 T02330217 10317 20228 53015 SPECI KNTU 062329Z 09006G16KT 3SM -TSRA SCT020CB BKN075 BKN110 23/20 A2979 RMK AO2 PK WND 34027/2317 WSHFT 2303 CNS LTGICCCCG OHD TS OHD MOV E T1 SET P0114 T02330200 SPECI KNTU 062325Z 03010G27KT 2SM TSRA BKN020CB BKN045 BKN300 23/20 A2978 RMK AO2 PK WND 34027/2317 WSHFT 2303 CNS LTGICCCCG OHD TS OHD MOV E T1 SET P0114 T02280200 SPECI KNTU 062323Z 08009G27KT 1/2SM +TSRA FG BKN022CB BKN045 OVC080 23/21 A2978 RMK AO2 PK WND 34027/2317 WSHFT 2303 CNS LTGICCCCG OHD TS OHD MOV E T1 SET P0113 T02280206 SPECI KNTU 062312Z 23014G20KT 200V280 1/2SM +TSRA FG BKN022CB BKN045 OVC080 23/22 A2981 RMK AO2 CNS LTGICCCCG OHD TS OHD MOV E T1 SET P0056 T02330222 SPECI KNTU 062303Z 16010KT 1/2SM +TSRA SCT020CB BKN048 BKN080 25/22 A2980 RMK AO2 PRESRR CNS LTGICCCCG OHD TS OHD MOV E T1 SET P0026 T02500222 SPECI KNTU 062300Z 15006KT 1 1/2SM +TSRA SCT020CB BKN048 BKN080 25/22 A2980 RMK AO2 PRESRR CNS LTGICCCCG OHD TS OHD MOV E T1 SET P0011 T02500217 METAR KNTU 062256Z 12005KT 6SM TSRA SCT020CB BKN048 BKN080 25/22 A2979 RMK AO2 RAB53 TSB23 SLP089 CNS LTGICCCCG OHD TS OHD MOV E T1 SET P0002 T02500217 SPECI KNTU 062252Z 10007KT 8SM TS SCT020CB BKN048 BKN080 26/21 A2979 RMK AO2 TSB23 CNS LTGICCCCG OHD TS OHD MOV E T1 SET
Oceana NAS is located 10.6 miles to the SE of Norfolk Intl Airport. The visibility at ORF was reported to be 10SM through the period, with clear skies at 2251Z. Radar indicated a heavy rain cell about 4 miles SE of ORF at 2300Z:
Oceana NAS is also circled on the map. Oceana NAS was able to report CONS LTG, even though it had modertate rain and poor visibility; but ORF reported no lightning at all. So how did this happen?
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Post by coldlover on Jul 26, 2019 20:33:31 GMT -5
KELO (center of page) ALDARS reporting VCTS even though radar shows closest LTG 50-60 miles away. See scale in lower left.
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Post by coldlover on Jul 28, 2019 23:03:07 GMT -5
Since ALDARS cannot "See" LTG within 10 miles (only beyond 10 miles) of the ARPT reference point- my site shown here wouldn't have reported a TS unless a CWO was working. ( I was working and correctly reported TS since I both saw LTG and heard thunder) Check out the radar and at this time- NO TS WAS being reported by ALDARS since it basically developed within 10 miles and didn't do the classic move "in" from W to E etc..- and it's absurd to think the FAA thinks this stand alone ALDARS is the right answer since in this situation with CG / IC / CC within 5 miles of the Airport it reports nothing. Just exactly the opposite of what a pilot needs.
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Post by tornado on Aug 22, 2019 10:34:46 GMT -5
It appears there was a nationwide ALDARS outage just before 0500Z today. Perhaps it was planned.
METAR KSFF 220453Z AUTO 25009G15KT 10SM -RA OVC090 21/13 A2993 RMK AO2 RAB30 SLP119 P0001 T02060133 TSNO METAR KSDM 220453Z AUTO 27004KT 3SM BR OVC003 19/18 A2980 RMK AO2 SLP087 T01890178 TSNO METAR KPUB 220453Z AUTO 05009KT 10SM CLR 21/10 A3013 RMK AO2 SLP136 T02060100 TSNO METAR KDWH 220453Z AUTO 17003KT 10SM CLR 27/22 A2998 RMK AO2 SLP148 T02720222 TSNO METAR KMOT 220454Z AUTO 13004KT 10SM CLR 14/07 A3007 RMK AO2 SLP183 T01390072 TSNO METAR KFNT 220453Z AUTO 35006KT 10SM FEW044 21/13 A2996 RMK AO2 SLP140 T02110128 403060206 TSNO METAR KUGN 220455Z AUTO 31004KT 10SM BKN042 OVC050 21/16 A2999 RMK AO2 SLP144 T02060156 TSNO METAR KNEW 220453Z AUTO 15003KT 9SM CLR 27/24 A3003 RMK AO2 SLP161 T02670239 TSNO METAR KFXE 220453Z AUTO 08007KT 10SM CLR 28/23 A3004 RMK AO2 SLP176 T02780228 403220244 TSNO METAR KINT 220454Z AUTO 00000KT 10SM CLR 23/21 A3006 RMK AO2 SLP168 T02280206 403330217 TSNO METAR KPNE 220454Z AUTO 00000KT 10SM CLR 24/21 A2989 RMK AO2 SLP120 T02390211 403440239 TSNO METAR KFOK 220453Z AUTO 20006KT 10SM CLR 23/23 A2990 RMK AO2 SLP124 T02330228 402830178 TSNO METAR KPHF 220454Z AUTO 23010KT 10SM CLR 27/24 A2996 RMK AO2 SLP144 T02720239 403110233 TSNO
Did anyone get a notice of a planned outage?
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Post by hlsto2 on Aug 22, 2019 11:21:51 GMT -5
Since ALDARS cannot "See" LTG within 10 miles (only beyond 10 miles) of the ARPT reference point- my site shown here wouldn't have reported a TS unless a CWO was working. ( I was working and correctly reported TS since I both saw LTG and heard thunder) Check out the radar and at this time- NO TS WAS being reported by ALDARS since it basically developed within 10 miles and didn't do the classic move "in" from W to E etc..- and it's absurd to think the FAA thinks this stand alone ALDARS is the right answer since in this situation with CG / IC / CC within 5 miles of the Airport it reports nothing. Just exactly the opposite of what a pilot needs. View Attachmentyes...as I noted in a previous post that ALDARS is slow to react...and I have seen where it takes 3 or 4 strikes before it wakes up with a TS or VCTS...which is actually good as I can then jump on a TS before ALDARS gets the sleep out of it's eyes. I had an event a few weeks ago where my live ltg program began showing strikes 5-10 miles NW of the ap. I began a TS and 3 minutes later ALDARS was reporting a VCTS.
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Post by coldlover on Aug 28, 2019 7:26:03 GMT -5
I wonder what the clowns would make of this from Marathon,FL--
ALDARS working as designed.
a new form of meteorology where Thunderstorms have ZERO lightning??
KMTH 281207Z AUTO 02010G20KT 3/4SM VCTS +RA BKN026 BKN036 OVC065 24/22 A2998 RMK AO2 WSHFT 1153 RAB1154 TSE07 P0025 T02440217 KMTH 281201Z AUTO 01015KT 1 3/4SM +TSRA FEW026 BKN037 BKN050 26/23 A2998 RMK AO2 RAB1154 P0008 T02560228 KMTH 281153Z AUTO 32014G20KT 9SM TS SCT026 SCT037 BKN050 28/22 A2998 RMK AO2 TSB39 SLP151 T02780222 10300 20278 53018
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Post by tornado on Dec 17, 2019 16:23:08 GMT -5
Destin, Florida: METAR KDTS 171353Z 21007KT 170V250 4SM -TSRA BR BKN016 BKN023 OVC045 22/21 A2987 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT SE-SW RAB06 TSB24E26 SLP113 P0026 T02170206 SPECI KDTS 171335Z VRB06KT 1 1/4SM +TSRA BR BKN021 BKN044 BKN120 22/20 A2986 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS RAB06 TSB24E26 P0013 T02170200
ALDARS recorded a bogus 2-minute thunderstorm in remarks, for an ongoing thunderstorm in present weather.
New Orleans Lakefront Airport, Louisiana: SPECI KNEW 170842Z AUTO 32019G24KT 2SM +RA BR FEW010 BKN019 OVC055 14/13 A2993 RMK AO2 PK WND 32032/0822 VIS 1V3 LTG DSNT NE TSB12 P0073 T01390128 SPECI KNEW 170828Z AUTO 31023G32KT 3/4SM +RA BR FEW006 OVC018 14/13 A2994 RMK AO2 PK WND 32032/0822 LTG DSNT W AND NW TSB12 PRESRR P0059 T01440128 SPECI KNEW 170815Z AUTO 31021G29KT 3/4SM +TSRA BR FEW010 BKN018 OVC041 14/13 A2992 RMK AO2 PK WND 32030/0800 LTG DSNT W TSB12 P0033 T01440133 ALDARS did not record a TSE time. Was the thunderstorm still in progress at 0828Z?
Golden Triangle Airport, nr Columbus, Mississippi: METAR KGTR 170156Z AUTO 19011KT 10SM VCTS -RA SCT029 BKN047 OVC100 18/18 A2982 RMK AO2 TSE25B34E36B39 SLP103 T01830178 PNO $
ALDARS had some glitches at GTR.
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Post by hlsto2 on Dec 22, 2019 22:23:01 GMT -5
ALDARS says VCTS...however...another lightning program shows numerous strikes within 5 miles of the ap. ltg screenshot is 0310Z. rings are 5 and 10SM centered on EYW. KEYW 230316Z AUTO 19021G27KT 1 1/2SM +RA BR FEW008 BKN027 OVC037 24/22 A2996 RMK AO2 PK WND 19027/0315 LTG DSNT S P0030 T02390222 KEYW 230313Z AUTO 20021G26KT 2SM VCTS +RA BR FEW008 BKN029 OVC037 24/23 A2995 RMK AO2 PK WND 20026/0313 LTG DSNT S P0024 T02440228 KEYW 230307Z AUTO 19010KT 2 1/2SM VCTS +RA BR FEW016 BKN033 OVC039 25/23 A2995 RMK AO2 VIS 1 3/4V3 LTG DSNT SW P0015 T02500228 KEYW 230253Z AUTO 15013G17KT 6SM VCTS -RA BR FEW018 BKN037 OVC055 24/23 A2994 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT S AND SW SLP137 P0017 60023 T02440228 50007
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Post by hlsto2 on Jan 2, 2020 20:23:23 GMT -5
KLCH 022326Z 25006KT 2 1/2SM +TSRA BR BKN006 BKN026 OVC032 19/18 A2970 RMK AO2 VIS 1 3/4V5 LTG DSNT ALQDS TSB20 PRESRR P0010 T01940178 KLCH 022309Z 30007G17KT 3SM VCTS +RA BR BKN005 OVC028 21/19 A2966 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS CIG 003V008 P0006 T02060189 KLCH 022301Z 24005G14KT 3SM VCTS +RA BR BKN003 OVC008 21/20 A2965 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS CIG 003V007 PRESRR P0002 T02110200 KLCH 022253Z 24008KT 2 1/2SM VCTS RA BR OVC003 21/20 A2964 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT NE-S PRESRR SLP045 P0010 T02110200 KLCH 022249Z 25005KT 2SM VCTS +RA BR OVC003 21/20 A2963 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT NE-S P0008 KLCH 022245Z 24005KT 1 3/4SM RA BR OVC003 21/20 A2963 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS P0006 T02110200 KLCH 022242Z 23004KT 2SM VCTS RA BR OVC003 21/20 A2962 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT ALQDS P0005 T02110200 KLCH 022231Z 25004KT 1 3/4SM VCTS RA BR OVC003 21/20 A2961 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT NE AND S AND SW P0003 T02110200 KLCH 022215Z 00000KT 2 1/2SM VCTS -RA BR OVC004 21/20 A2962 RMK AO2 LTG DSNT NE AND S P0001 T02060200 lightning display shows numerous strikes within 5 miles of the AP at 2220Z...ALDARS only reports VCTS...until 2326Z
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Post by hlsto2 on Feb 5, 2020 22:37:28 GMT -5
commercial ltg program showing at least a dozen strikes within 10 miles of an ap. ALDARS says nothing in prewx...only LTG DSNT ALQDS in remarks. I hope no observers are relying solely on ALDARS to detect tstms.
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