Preparing for the chase: April 17, 2013

2:20 am

The chase day begins early here.

I’ve just taken another look at the models for a chase today. With what I’m seeing right now, the target area is around Lindsay, OK, about 3 hours southwest of Tulsa. I’m hoping I won’t have to go that far south.

I’m still not real impressed with the setup, but I’ve not been impressed before and ended up having a good run.

I’ll look at the next set of models in about 3 hours or so.

6:17 am

I’ve looked at the latest data and, at this point, I’m sticking with my target area. I’ll continue watching for changes this morning while I get the gear ready.

This is the latest SPC outlook.

The greatest risk today for the moderate area shown will be large hail and heavy rain. In the Tulsa area, we could see over 2″ of rain today.

The moderate risk for tornadoes is nestled in the SW corner of the state. I’d sure like to refine that risk area before I head out.

Locally, the onset for severe will probably be late afternoon and early evening. Looks like I’m going to have to drive to the storms today to get into anything early enough.

More later.

8:16 am

This is why I don’t usually go with my first target area. Things are already changing. The tornado risk area has been enlarged. I’ll be monitoring the models for another couple of hours.

11:04 am

The truck is ready. Gear is sitting by the door. I’ll be heading out within the hour. I’m still thinking about heading in the direction of Lindsay and then adjust while I’m on the road.

I’m not expecting this to start really boiling until early afternoon at the earliest. So, I’ve still got some time to get into position.

The site radar is now active. I’ve been having problems with the watch/warning module of my reporting software crashing, so I’ve disabled the graphic on the Live Radar page until the provider gets it fixed. For the most recent watches and warnings, go to: http://www.weather.gov/. The radar images and bulletins on the Live Radar page will be current.

12:59 pm

Grabbing a quick oil change. Be on the road shortly.

1:22 pm

Let the chase begin.  You can follow me through the day on my Twitter feed.