Ticker for May 10, 2010

                
MESONET TICKER ... MESONET TICKER ... MESONET TICKER ... MESONET TICKER ...
May 10, 2010       May 10, 2010       May 10, 2010       May 10, 2010


Tornado Count Going Up?

We're currently experiencing (at least through May 9) the slowest start to
Oklahoma's tornado count since "official" statistics began in 1950. And
remember, that is spotted tornadoes. I would assume that a few tornadoes were
missed here and there, especially those back in the day. With so many chasers
and spotters out there now, however, that makes the current low count of three
(as of mid-morning on May 10) even more impressive.

Reported tornadoes through May 9 and totals for the year:

YEAR    Through May 9    Total for Year
2010         3                 ??
1989         4                 20
1997         7                 55
1998         8                 83

Mother Nature has apparently decided to try and end that slow start today. In
case you have been living in a cave the last few days, my suggestion is to STAY
THERE(!!!) because all heck could break loose today. The Storm Prediction Center
has issued a High Risk convective outlook for parts of Oklahoma, to go along
with a surrounding moderate/slight risk:



The local NWS offices are on top of things as well:




It seems a bit chilly out there for a severe weather outbreak, at least in the
classic sense



but a warm front and more sunshine are on the way to save (or sink, in this
case)the day:




And don't forget moisture!



We should see a dryline move in from the west today, which will change that
dew point map considerably. How much? Well, when the dryline moves past, get
that chapstick handy. Just ask the folks in the western Oklahoma Panhandle!



As always, stay safe and monitor your local NWS office websites, weather radios,
and local media outlets for warning and safety information.

Gary McManus
Associate State Climatologist
Oklahoma Climatological Survey
(405) 325-2253
gmcmanus@mesonet.org