Tilted updraft

RHI from a research radar in Colorado sampling a visibly tilted updraft

A tilted updraft (also known as a tilted storm) is a thunderstorm which is not vertically erect.[1][2] This happens as a result of unidirectional wind shear, or a change in wind speed with height. In such an environment, the top of the updraft is pushed further downstream than the lower parts as a result of stronger winds pushing the top, as it is higher in the atmosphere. Storms that occur in environments with wind shear are more likely to be severe.[1][2]

  1. ^ a b Michael Branick (March 11, 2008). "A COMPREHENSIVE GLOSSARY OF WEATHER TERMS FOR STORM SPOTTERS". NWS - Norman. Archived from the original on May 1, 2008. Retrieved 2008-05-18.
  2. ^ a b NOAA. "Tilted Storm or Tilted Updraft". A dictionary of legal, industry-specific, and uncommon terms. Defined Term. Retrieved May 10, 2018.