The following entries are all storm chases and interceptions performed exclusively by Chris Collura, Skywarn storm spotter code B036. All chases and observations are in chronological order and a chase number is assigned to each entry for each chase season by year. Please bear in mind that all observations are revised to modern standards and do not include all storms that occurred in a given area for a particular chase season. Early observations may even be sketchy and awkward. The chase log is also augmented with a small chart at the conclusion of each chase season showing types of observations

Any kind of storm such as a thunderstorm, tornado, waterspout, tropical cyclone, and extratropical storm can be chased or observed. I have tried to keep this log of any storms that I have observed as accurate as possible, while revising terms and expressions to abide by those used by most meteorologists and storm spotters today.

Storm chasing and observation can be extremely dangerous and may result in serious injury or death. I have received intermediate and advanced training for storm spotting in 1996. I strongly urge anyone who is to try their hand at storm spotting to get training before doing so. You must also have a good understanding of meteorology and storm dynamics. "If you don't know what you're doing, Don't do it!" Contact your local National Weather Service office for information on storm spotting and about training to become a Skywarn storm Spotter.

1). OCT 14, 9:00 AM - Coastal observation of large southeasterly swells impacting the beaches along Fire Island at Smith Point State Park near Moriches, New York. Hurricane Josephine was about 250 Miles to the south with winds decreasing from 100 to 85-MPH and turning towards the ENE. Josephine’s outer fringe effects were felt in extreme eastern New England. Conditions observed were 45-MPH NNE winds, cloudy skies with light drizzle, and 8 to 15 foot swells with tides 2 to 3 feet above normal. This was the first storm observed by myself. I used a bike to ride to the beach and a boogie board to observe the waves. Documentation was audio recording from a tape recorder wrapped in garbage bags.

This concludes the 1984 chase season. The summary includes an observation of the indirect coastal effects from a hurricane. This was the first intentional observation of any kind of storm. This information was prepared exclusively for the National Weather service and the team of Skywarn storm spotters.

1). OCT 11, 3:00 PM - Penetration of a strong thunderstorm in Margate and Coral Springs, Florida along Atlantic Blvd. The storm had 40-MPH winds, Torrential rains, and frequent lightning as I rode through it on my bicycle. This foolish and dangerous chase was the first thunderstorm I ever intercepted intentionally. Tropical moisture and sea breeze activity spawned the storms near a low-pressure trough.

2). NOV 24, 12:00 PM - Observation of coastal effects of Hurricane Kate at Pompano Beach, Florida. The hurricane was about 200 miles to the south on the northern Cuban coast, moving to the west with 115-MPH winds. High-pressure to the north and Kate to the south allowed 40-MPH east winds with one gust to 78-MPH to impact the south Florida coasts. Heavy rain squalls and thunderstorms would move quickly onshore outside of overcast skies with occasional drizzle. Waves from 5 to 10 Feet were observed, much larger well offshore past the reef off Pompano Beach. Tides ran a couple of feet above normal. A hurricane watch and gale warning was in effect for the majority of the day. A bicycle and surfboard was used to observe the coastal effects. Documentation was still photos.

This concludes the 1985 chase season. The summary includes a total of 2 chases or observations. Out of these chases, 1 strong thunderstorm chase and 1 tropical coastal observations were conducted. Remember, a bicycle is NOT a recommended chase vehicle for thunderstorms, and presents a deadly lightning hazard. This information was prepared exclusively for the National Weather service and the team of Skywarn storm spotters.

1). APR 30, 7:00 PM - Penetration of a strong thunderstorm in western sections of Lake Worth, Florida near State Road 7. Heavy rain, frequent lightning, and 40-MPH wind gusts were observed. Conditions causing the storms were a prefrontal wave and surface heating. A 1984 Chrysler Laser was used to chase the storm.

2). MAY 20, 9:00 PM - Direct penetration of a severe thunderstorm just south of Lake Worth, Florida along State Road 7. Torrential rains, small hail, frequent lightning, and winds near 60-MPH were encountered as multiple core punches were executed on the storm as it crossed State road 7 between Lake Worth and Deerfield Beach. A jet stream trough aloft with a weak cold front allowed the storms to form in the evening hours. A 1984 Chrysler Lebaron was used to chase the storms.

3). MAY 21, 5:00 PM - Direct penetration of severe thunderstorms from initial development over Coral Springs, Florida and followed to Fort Lauderdale. Torrential rains, pea to dime sized hail, 70-MPH winds, and frequent lightning with close hits were observed during a core punch near Margate, Florida. One lightning hit struck a lake less than 100 feet from the chase vehicle. The storm was part of a multicell storm cluster developing ahead of a weak surface front with a jet stream trough aloft. A 1984 Chrysler Laser was used to chase the storms. A severe thunderstorm watch was also in effect for the area until 9PM.

4). JUL 4, 6:00 PM - Penetration of a very strong thunderstorm near Tamarac, Florida into North Lauderdale along Southgate Blvd. Pea to dime sized hail, torrential rain, 50-MPH winds, and frequent lightning with close hits were observed in this multicell storm. A low-pressure system aloft and weak surface front caused the storms with surface heating. A 1984 Chrysler Laser was used to chase them.

This concludes the 1986 chase season. The summary includes a total of 4 chases or observations. Out of these chases, 2 severe thunderstorms were involved with 2 strong thunderstorms. Among these chases, a 1984 Chrysler Laser was used in 3 observations and a 1984 Chrysler Lebaron in 1. This season was the first where storms were intentionally intercepted by car after I got my driver's license. This information was prepared exclusively for the National Weather service and the team of Skywarn storm spotters.

1). JAN 5, 2:00 PM - Penetration of a severe thunderstorm and tornado interception. With a guest, Nick Tsokris, the severe thunderstorm was encountered near Sample Road and State Road 7 in Margate, Florida. High winds, heavy rains, and small hail was encountered as this fast moving storm crossed the area. Near Pompano Beach, Florida, on Sample Road, A small tornado was observed on the backside of the thunderstorm. The chasers came within one mile of the touchdown area, where 2 street lamps were downed and several trailer homes damaged. A jet stream aloft and a strong cold front allowed the storms and tornado to develop. A 1980 Ford Pinto was used to chase the storms. Documentation was still photographs. A tornado watch was also in effect until 3 PM for this area.

2). MAR 7, ALL DAY - Extratropical gale with associated precipitation and coastal conditions observed. A chase track began in Margate, Florida through a line of strong thunderstorms with torrential rains and flooding northward into Juno Beach, Florida where waves as high as 12 feet were observed. As the gale center crossed Palm Beach by 12 PM, 45-MPH ENE winds gave way to light SW winds, which later increased to 20-MPH. The storm center was partly cloudy with nearly calm winds as it passed by. A tornado was also spawned by one thunderstorm cell in a squall line but was not observed. Documentation was still photos of rough surf and thunderstorms, as well as audio. A 1980 Ford Pinto was used to observe the storm and its effects along the Florida coast.

3). MAY 21, 4:00 PM - Direct penetration of a very strong to severe thunderstorm along Interstate 95 between State Road 84 and Broward Blvd in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Spawned by an outflow boundary from a weaker storm further north, The storm became approaching severe intensity with 3/4-inch hail, torrential rains, 50-MPH winds, and frequent lightning. Unfortunately, lightning killed two people several blocks from the chase area in this storm. Heavy rains also caused street flooding near the storm core. A low-pressure trough and stalled front allowed the storms to develop near the sea breeze front. Documentation was still photos, while a 1980 Ford Pinto was used in the chase.

4). JUN 25, 7:00 PM - Penetration of a strong thunderstorm in Fort Lauderdale, Florida from near Sunrise Blvd between Interstate 95 and State road A1A. The storm had torrential rains, frequent lightning with close hits, 45 to 50-MPH winds, and small hail. The southern edge of this multicell storm also spawned a tornado, but it was not intercepted. Heavy road ponding of water was also encountered with this storm. Documentation was still photos and audio. A 1980 Fort Pinto was used to chase the storms. An outflow boundary from the north triggered the storms near Fort Lauderdale. An upper trough and weak front caused the storms with late afternoon heating.

5). JUL 7, 6:00 PM - Direct penetration and interception of an extremely severe thunderstorm supercell and tornado touchdown along Interstate 95 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This storm was a rare classic supercell that contained large hail, unconfirmed public reports as large as baseballs, and destructive winds. The chase, accompanied by guest Tony Ihrig, went south along Interstate 95 from Pompano Beach to Fort Lauderdale. A punch through the western edge of the high precipitation core was executed where hail over an inch was observed along with 65 to 70-MPH winds, torrential rains, and continuous lightning with close hits. The rain free base was encountered near Fort Lauderdale airport where a tornado was observed about two miles ahead crossing Interstate 95. The rain free base contained a large wall cloud with strong mesocyclonic rotation. The precipitation even wrapped around the "bear's cage" forming a hook echo precipitation pattern as the tornado was touching down. Debris was observed from both the tornado touchdown as well as from the powerful outflow of the storm to the east. Documentation for this storm was still photos, including the tornado touchdown. Trees and powerlines were downed in this storm, with a roof torn off a home where the tornado hit. Hail damage and flooding also occurred under the worst part of the storm core. A 1984 Chrysler Laser was used to chase the storm, which was caused by extreme instability. An upper trough, surface trough, and daytime heating allowed this supercell to develop. The storm itself was over 20 miles wide and 67,000 feet high during its most active cycle.

6). SEP 10, 5:00 PM - Direct penetration of another very severe thunderstorm in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This storm was another HP supercell extending from Deerfield Beach to Pembroke Pines. The storm was followed from Margate to Pembroke Pines with a guest, Tony Ihrig. The most severe core conditions were encountered just north of Fort Lauderdale Executive airport on Cypress Creek road. 70-MPH winds, torrential rains, frequent lightning with close hits, and golf ball sized hail were encountered in this area. A tornado was also associated with this storm near Pembroke Pines, but dissipated before the chasers could get to it. A subtropical jet stream aloft, sea breeze activity, and a low-pressure trough allowed these storms to develop. A 1984 Chrysler Laser was used to chase the storm.

7). OCT 12, 5-7 PM - Chase and observation of a category one hurricane in the northern Florida Keys. Hurricane Floyd formed near Cuba and moved over the Florida Keys then to the Bahamas. The storm peaked with 80-MPH winds as it crossed over the Florida Keys. A chase track, with guest Tony Ihrig, along Highway US 1 was made into Key Largo. Conditions encountered here were 65-MPH southeast winds and light rain, which gave way to a dead calm as the eye, was directly penetrated. As the second half of the storm passed over, light winds and sunny, hazy skies gave way to 80-MPH northwest winds with heavy rains. Downed trees and powerlines were observed in this storm, along with a 3 to 5 foot storm surge that caused some coastal damage and flooding. The well-documented chase included audio and still photographs. A 1980 Ford Pinto was used to chase the hurricane. Floyd only made landfall in the US in the Florida Keys. After that, it passed east of Florida and became non-tropical as it cleared the Northern Bahamas. Once extratropical, this system became part of a devastating storm to strike England nearly a week later.

This concludes the 1987 chase season. The summary includes a total of 7 chases or observations. Out of these chases, 4 severe thunderstorms with one including a tornado, 1 strong thunderstorm, 1 hurricane, and 1 extratropical gale were involved. Among these chases, a 1980 Ford Pinto was used in 5 observations and a 1984 Chrysler Laser in 2. This information was prepared exclusively for the National Weather service and the team of Skywarn storm spotters.

1). APR 30, 3:00 PM - Direct penetration of a severe thunderstorm and tornado observation. A rotating severe thunderstorm with 55-MPH winds, torrential rains, and pea-sized hail was encountered along Interstate 95 between Glades and Yamato road in Boca Raton, Florida. The storm had a rear flank circulation and hook pattern that was penetrated just north of Glades Road on Interstate 95. Upon exiting this storms, a large wall cloud with unusually low, rotating clouds was observed about 5-mile northeast of Glades Road. A report came in later that a truck was thrown 50 feet and part of a shopping center damaged near Highway US 1 and Yamato Road that confirmed this event as a tornado touchdown. A jet stream aloft and frontal system allowed this storm to develop. A 1980 Fort Pinto was used in the observation. Documentation was still photos.

2). MAY 19, 4:00 PM - Intercept and penetration of a very strong thunderstorm in West Broward, Florida near Sunrise Blvd and the Sawgrass expressway. A well developed storm with a large inflow area on its southwestern edge that was part of a multicell cluster. Winds gusting over 50-MPH, torrential rains, and lightning were observed in the storm core. Little or no hail was observed. Part of the hood of the chase vehicle, a 1980 Ford Pinto, nearly came off from the winds. An upper trough, outflow boundary, and surface trough allowed the storms to develop. Documentation was still Photos.

3). MAY 23, 12:00 PM - Fringe observation of a strong thunderstorm over Kendall in Dade County, Florida. The storm was on the southern portion of a multicell line of thunderstorms. Traffic and a wrong turn off the Palmetto Expressway turned this chase into an external observation, where frequent lightning in the storm backside about 3 miles ahead and light rain was encountered. The storms were caused by a trough of low-pressure, a weak surface front, and a subtropical jet stream nearby. A 1980 Ford Pinto was used to chase the storms.

4). MAY 26, 4:00 PM - Penetration of a strong thunderstorm over Hollywood, Florida near Interstate 95 into Northern Miami. Torrential rains, pea sized hail, 50-MPH winds, and frequent lightning was encountered in the storm core. Heavy pond type street flooding caused traffic problems in the area the storm hit. The storm was part of a multicell cluster in which one storm near Coral Springs, Florida spawned a tornado damaging a construction site. The tornado was not intercepted. A 1980 Ford Pinto was used to chase the storms. A low-pressure trough and stalled front provided instability for the storm. Documentation was still photos.

5). JUN 5, 1:00 PM - Direct penetration of a very strong to severe thunderstorm over Boca Raton, Florida just north of Palmetto Park Road. Conditions encountered were heavy rains, winds over 50-MPH, dime sized hail, and frequent lightning with close hits. A large wall cloud was also observed on the inflow side of the storm, indicating a slight rotation on the southwest side of the cell. No funnel clouds or tornadoes developed. As the storm weakened, its gust front was followed along Interstate 95 to Miami where the outflow boundary finally weakened. A 1980 Ford Pinto was used to chase the storms, caused by a low-pressure trough and slight subtropical jet shear. Documentation was still photos.

6). JUN 30, 3:00 PM - Penetration of severe thunderstorms that propagated from Coral Springs, Florida into Miami. This multicell cluster began in Coral Springs near Pine Island Road and Atlantic Blvd. In this area, frequent lightning and torrential rains were encountered. As the storm developed southwards, 50-MPH winds and 3/4 inch hail was encountered near Davie, Florida. The storm back-built further south into Miami near the Palmetto Expressway and Opa Locka. During this cycle, 60-MPH winds and torrential rains were encountered. Heavy flooding was also encountered with this storm. A 1980 Ford Pinto was used to chase the storms. A low-pressure trough and sea breeze activity caused the storms.

7). JUL 7, 8:00 PM - Observation of tropical depression on east coast of Florida. The center of the depression, with light winds was located over northern Fort Lauderdale. A chase into Palm Beach county into the northern portion of the storm was executed. In Boynton Beach, along the coast at Boynton Inlet, 30-MPH NE winds, heavy rainsqualls, and thunderstorms were observed. Seas of 4 to 6 feet lashed at the beach under the northern bands of this system. Winds in Fort Lauderdale were very light, and west at 10-MPH in Miami. The depression weakened as it passed over land shortly after. A 1980 Ford Pinto was used to observe the tropical depression. Documentation was still photos.

8). JUL 10, 7:00 PM - Approach towards a severe thunderstorm in the Everglades at the end of Loxahatchee road in Broward County, Florida. About 1 mile from the storm core, 50-MPH winds were observed in rain free outflow after crossing the gust front. Frequent lightning was observed in the rain shaft of the storm. No rain or hail was penetrated with this storm. A 1980 Ford Pinto was used to observe the storm. Surface heating and a low-pressure trough allowed the storms to develop. Documentation was still photos.

9). AUG 14, 3:00 PM - Direct penetration of a pulse type severe storm over Coral Springs, Florida. The storm had a small area that contained torrential rains and winds over 55-MPH observed near Pine Island Road and Atlantic Blvd. The storm was part of a multicell line developing in a deep layer of tropical moisture beneath an upper trough. The storm caused heavy street flooding and downed trees in the core area. The chase vehicle, a 1980 Ford Pinto, stalled in a flooded area as the storm core passed by.

10). AUG 14, 8:00 PM - Direct penetration of a severe thunderstorm near North Lauderdale and Margate, Florida. In this storm, chase partner Tony Ihrig drove the chase track as I guided him through parts of the storm core. The chase vehicle was a 1988 Mazda B2200 Pickup truck. Conditions encountered were extremely heavy rains, 60-MPH winds, and continuous lightning with close hits less than 100 feet away. Damage observed was some downed trees, power outages, and street flooding where 3 feet of ponding was observed. Some stalled cars actually were observed floating in this storm. Documentation was audio recording of the chase. A deep tropical moisture layer, and low-pressure trough allowed a multicell cluster of storms to develop. Training of storm cells dumped the huge amounts of rain that caused the flooding.

11). AUG 17, 4:00 PM - Penetration of the western edge of a severe thunderstorm in Broward and Dade counties, Florida. A severe thunderstorm over Broward county produced large hail as big as golf balls and high winds. The southwest side of the storm core, where winds over 55-MPH, frequent lightning, and torrential rains were fount, was penetrated along Interstate 75 near Miami lakes. Sea breeze activity and a low-pressure trough allowed the storm to develop, which was part of a multicell cluster. Documentation was still photos. A 1980 Ford Pinto was used to chase the storm.

12). NOV 22, ALL DAY - Observation and penetration of the center of tropical storm Kieth as it was crossing east central Florida. The tropical storm first struck Tampa, Florida after forming in the Gulf of Mexico with 65-MPH winds. Weakening, the storm crossed Florida spawning 12 tornadoes and re emerged over the Atlantic near Sabastian and Cape Canaveral with 60-MPH winds. The storm was encountered along Interstate 95 from Palm Beach into Sabastian, Florida. Winds ranging from 45 to 65-MPH were observed with light to moderate rain from 10 to 11 PM. As the storm center was encountered around 12 PM, the sky became partly cloudy with 10 to 15-MPH winds. Along the coast, at Sebastian Inlet, 4 to 6 foot waves were observed with 20 to 30-MPH northwest winds after the storm center passed offshore at about 1 PM. Light rain resumed with 30 to 40-MPH winds thereafter. Tropical storm Kieth became extratropical well east of Florida a few days later. A 1984 Chrysler Laser was used to chase the tropical storm. Documentation was still photos. No tornadoes were intercepted in this storm.

This concludes the 1988 chase season. The summary includes a total of 12 chases or observations. Out of these chases, 7 severe thunderstorms with one including a tornado, 3 strong thunderstorms, 1 tropical storm, and 1 tropical depression were involved. Among these chases, a 1980 Ford Pinto was used in 10 observations, a Mazda B2200 Pickup in 1 and a 1984 Chrysler Laser in 1. This information was prepared exclusively for the National Weather service and the team of Skywarn storm spotters.

1). JAN 22, 3:00 PM - Penetration of a line of strong thunderstorms in western sections of Jupiter, Florida near Interstate 95. The fast moving storm line caused heavy rains, lightning, and 40-MPH winds before moving out to sea. The storm was a squall line developing ahead of a cold front attached to a frontal system moving across northern Florida. A jet stream was also present aloft. A 1984 Chevy Camaro was used to chase the storms. A tornado watch was also in effect for this area until 7 PM.

2). FEB 28, 2:00 PM - Direct penetration of a severe thunderstorm over Fort Lauderdale, Florida east of Interstate 95 along Oakland Park Blvd. Torrential rains of 3 to 5 inches per hour, hail exceeding 1/2 inch, lightning, and winds gusting over 60-MPH were encountered. Severe flooding was also observed, including a collapsed construction hill across Interstate 95 near State Road 84. Documentation of this storm was still photos and audio. The storm formed in unstable air where a low freezing level was present due to an upper level trough. Strong upper level winds, which veered with height, were also present. A 1984 Chevy Camaro was used to chase the storms.

3). MAR 3, 5:00 PM - Penetration of a very strong thunderstorm in Boca Raton, Florida. Conditions encountered just to the south of the storm core were 50-MPH northerly winds, torrential rain, and frequent lightning with close hits. A guest, Rex Napier, also observed the storm. A brief inspection of the storm updraft base was also made on the storm inflow side. Documentation was still photos and audio. The storm was part of a multicell cluster caused by a low-pressure trough, surface heating, and strong upper level winds. A 1984 Chevy Camaro was used to chase the storms.

4). MAR 11, ALL DAY - Observation of coastal effects of a powerful extratropical storm just off the Florida East Coast. The gale forced winds caused very high seas and large swells to affect the entire East Coast of Florida. The observation was done from Boynton Beach, Florida to West Palm Beach at Lake Worth Inlet. Seas were as high as 20 feet with large northeasterly swells and 30-MPH northerly winds. Part of Lake Worth Municipal Pier was damaged by the swells. The north jetty at Boynton Inlet also sustained damage from the breakers. Coastal flooding and beach was also serious at high tide. The waves observed were up to 20 feet with a 15-second swell period. A few close calls where the chaser was nearly swept off a jetty and his surf board broken in half by the waves. The gale formed beneath a strong jet stream and stalled frontal system. A low-pressure system aloft developed and stacked on top of the gale center at the surface. A strong high-pressure system from Canada behind the low allowed a strong pressure difference to set up. A nor’ Easter then formed in the Florida coastal waters. Documentation was still photos. Land observations were done in a 1984 Chevy Camaro.

5). MAR 31, 3:30 PM - Penetration of a strong high precipitation storm in northern Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The worst conditions were encountered near Dixie Highway and Cypress Creek Road. Frequent lightning, 30-MPH winds, and extremely heavy rains were observed in this slow moving storm. The ponding of water along Dixie Highway became so severe that about 3 feet of water stood in some spots. The chase vehicle was literally floating in one of these floods. A guest, Rex Napier, also observed the storm. The storm was part of a multicell cluster that included a tornado, which was not intercepted. A stalled trough of low-pressure, surface heating, and sea breeze activity allowed the storms to develop. A 1984 Chevy Camaro was used to chase the storm.

6). APR 20, 3:00 PM - Direct penetration of a severe thunderstorm in Margate and North Lauderdale, Florida along State Road 7. The initial developments in this multicell cluster were followed from Coral Springs, Florida along an outflow boundary. The cells over North Lauderdale became severe with 65-MPH winds and 3/4 inch hail that left an accumulation on the ground. Frequent lightning and torrential rains were also observed in the storm. The chase vehicle, a 1984 Chrysler Laser, nearly spun off the road in this storm. The paint on the vehicle was also chipped by the hail, which at one point, fell in a violent shower. The multicell cluster then evolved into a 15 mile wide supercell and spawned a tornado, which was not intercepted. A strong wind aloft and low-pressure trough allowed the storms to develop with the afternoon heating. Documentation was still photos.

7). MAY 15, 3:00 PM - Direct penetration of the southern flank of a very severe thunderstorm near Lauderhill, Margate, and North Lauderdale, Florida. A cluster of storms developed over northern Broward County and triggered an outflow boundary that caused more storms to develop. The cluster then evolved into a supercell storm in which the south side of its core was penetrated. Winds gusting over 70-MPH, hail to 1 inch, torrential rains, and frequent lightning was observed in the core punch. Portions of the core also contained golf ball sized hail up to 1 1/2 inches. The storm had a two-hour severe stage life span. Damage observed were some dents in cars from hail, tree damage, and street flooding from up to 5 inches of rain. A tornado was also produced by the storm north of Pembroke Pines, but was not intercepted. A jet stream aloft, surface heating, low-pressure trough, and thunderstorm complex moving out of the Gulf Of Mexico allowed the storms to develop. A 1984 Chevy Camaro was used to chase the storm. Documentation was audio recording and still photos.

8). MAY 23, 8:00 PM - Penetration of a strong thunderstorm in Broward County, Florida along the Sawgrass Expressway. Heavy rain, lightning, and 35-MPH winds were encountered in this storm. The strong thunderstorm was part of a multicell cluster, which also contained a severe thunderstorm, not intercepted, with 60-MPH winds, and pea sized hail over Palm Beach, Florida. A trough of low-pressure and surface heating allowed the storms to develop. A 1984 Chevy Camaro was used to chase them.

9). JUN 6, 6:00 PM - Indirect penetration and observation of a severe thunderstorm in the Everglades along the Sawgrass Expressway in Broward County, Florida. The eastern side of the storm was intercepted, into the storm gust front. Outflow winds of 50-MPH with flying dust and light rain were encountered in this area just south of Atlantic Blvd on the Sawgrass Expressway. An outflow boundary with associated strong thunderstorms was followed from this area until it reached Miami. The storm was part of a multicell cluster with severe thunderstorms caused by a low-pressure trough and surface heating. A severe thunderstorm watch was in effect for the area until 8 PM. A 1984 Chevy Camaro was used to chase the storms. Documentation was still photos.

10). JUN 29, 3:00 PM - Direct penetration of a severe thunderstorm in western Dade County, Florida. A cluster of thunderstorms developed from Fort Lauderdale and back built into Northwest Dade County where a pulse type severe thunderstorm cell was encountered. A brief area of torrential rains, frequent lightning, and 60-MPH winds was encountered with this storm cell south of Griffith road near Highway 27. Sea breeze activity and a low-pressure trough allowed the storms to develop. A 1984 Chevy Camaro was used to chase them. Documentation was audio recording.

11). JUN 30, 3:00 PM - Direct penetration of a severe thunderstorm near Hollywood, Florida. A persistent line of thunderstorms over southern Broward County began moving eastward with a southward development into the Miami area. A severe cell was penetrated in this line where 60-MPH winds, frequent lightning with close hits, and torrential rain was found. Several trees were uprooted in this storm and thrown across Miami Gardens Drive. The antenna on the chase vehicle was broken when a downed tree hit it. Street flooding was also observed with this storm. A 1994 Chevy Camaro was used in the observation. Documentation was audio recording. A low-pressure trough and surface heating allowed the storms to develop.

12). JUL 4, 4:00 PM - Penetration of a strong thunderstorm over Margate and North Lauderdale, Florida. An outflow boundary from a weaker storm to the northwest triggered a small line of thunderstorms to develop. While encountering the line, frequent lightning, 40-MPH winds, and heavy rains were observed. A 1984 Chevy Camaro was used to chase the storms, caused by a trough of low-pressure and surface heating.

13). JUL 14, 1:30 PM - Observation of a land spout type tornado over Boca Raton, Florida just west of Interstate 95 between Glades and Yamato roads. The tornado was observed from about 2 miles away, appearing as a transparent tube extending from the cloud base of a light thundershower along the sea breeze front. Trees were uprooted in the touchdown area of this F1 tornado. The tornado lasted for about 10 minutes and disappeared as the weak parent cumulus cloud dissipated. A trough of low-pressure, sea breeze activity, and surface heating allowed the tornado to develop. A 1984 Chevy Camaro was used to observe the storm. Documentation was still photos.

14). JUL 14, 3:00 PM - Direct penetration of a severe thunderstorm in Coconut Creek, Florida near Sample road and the Florida Turnpike. An outflow boundary from a weaker set of storms over Boca Raton moved southward along the sea breeze front. A severe thunderstorm cell developed near Sample Road in the resulting multicell cluster. A direct penetration was executed on this storm core, where winds over 65-MPH, 3/4 inch hail, torrential rains, and frequent lightning with close hits was observed. Some flying tree debris and flooding was also observed during the core punch. A small wall cloud was also observed on the southwest side of this storm. A 1984 Chevy Camaro was used to chase the storm. Documentation was audio recording. A trough of low-pressure, sea breeze activity, and surface heating allowed the storms to develop.

15). AUG 16, 4:00 PM - Direct penetration of a severe thunderstorm just west of Interstate 95 along Broward Blvd in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The storm back built southwards along a sea breeze front and outflow boundary from Boca Raton into Northern Dade County. Severe conditions were encountered during a core punch of this near supercell type storm. Winds gusted over 65-MPH, frequent lightning with close hits, torrential rains, and 3/4-inch hail was observed in this storm. Numerous uprooted trees were observed, street flooding, and billboard signs blown across Broward Blvd. A low-pressure area aloft, low-pressure trough, and sea breezes allowed the storms to develop. A 1984 Chevy Camaro was used to chase the storms. Documentation was still photos and a camcorder.

16). SEP 17, 8:00 PM - Penetration of a very strong to severe thunderstorm near Interstate 75 near the Dade and Broward County line in Florida. The storm was a high precipitation multicell storm with near severe conditions. Winds gusted to 55-MPH with torrential rains and continuous lightning as the storm was penetrated. Several close hits were observed, one striking a home with a shower of sparks. The cluster of storms was followed from Coral Springs down to the Miami area with the most intense conditions encountered near Weston and Miramar along Interstate 75. A low-pressure trough and abundant moisture caused the storms. A 1984 Chevy Camaro was used to chase them.

17). SEP 21, 3:00 PM - Observation of high swell waves at Jensen Beach, Florida. Hurricane Hugo was currently 200 miles to the east-northeast moving towards South Carolina with 130-MPH winds. Once the storm cleared the wave shadow of the Bahamas, large swells began reaching the Florida northeast coast. Easterly swells as high as 12 feet were observed with an 8 to 12 second period. The hurricane surf even washed over the dunes and into a few homes causing damage near high tide. Winds were 30-MPH from the northwest with scattered high clouds. A 1984 Chevy Camaro was used to observe the waves from the beach. Documentation was still photos.

18). OCT 9, 5:00 PM - Interception and penetration of a severe thunderstorm over Fort Lauderdale, Florida between Sunrise and Oakland Park Blvd near Interstate 95. A gust front was followed from University Drive and Commercial Blvd into this area where the storm pulsed at severe intensity. Winds gusting to 60-MPH, torrential rains, frequent lightning with close hits, and pea-sized hail was encountered with this storm. The storm was followed as it developed towards Highway US 1 and Sunrise Blvd in Fort Lauderdale. Street flooding was observed with this storm. Moisture feeding into a stationary front with the subtropical jet stream aloft allowed these storms to develop in the afternoon. A 1984 Chevy Camaro was used in the chase. Documentation was still photos.

19). OCT 27, 3:00 PM - Observation of high swell waves and a strong thunderstorm just south of Lake Worth Inlet in West Palm Beach, Florida. A subtropical low just east of the area produced 30-MPH northerly winds and a 12-foot northeast swell just south of the inlet. Computed period of the swell was about 12 seconds. A thunderstorm also passed by with wind gusts near 40-MPH, torrential rains, and lightning. A 1984 Chevy Camaro was used to observe the conditions from the shore. Documentation was still photos.

20). DEC 25, ALL DAY - Observation of extremely cold weather with tremendous ocean swells near Lake Worth Inlet in West Palm Beach, Florida. With temperatures in the upper 20's, a fog hung over the coastal waters, with a waterspout observed beneath a cumulus tower east of West Palm Beach over the Gulf Stream. Swell waves with sets exceeding 15 feet impacting the coast were also observed. Local conditions were clear and cold with 25-MPH northwest winds. These caused some flooding and beach erosion at high tide. The swells had a period of up to 15 seconds. The conditions were caused by a strong high-pressure area from Canada with a powerful gale center off the southeastern United States. The cold front also caused some trees to die from a killer frost. The gale center, with hurricane forced winds, allowed the large swells to sweep into Palm Beach County. A Chrysler Laser was used to observed the conditions from land. Documentation was a camcorder and still photos.

This concludes the 1989 chase season. The summary includes a total of 20 chases or observations. Out of these chases, 10 severe thunderstorms, 1 tornado, 5 strong thunderstorms, and 4 coastal observations, one involving a strong thunderstorm and another a waterspout, were involved. Among these chases, a 1984 Chevy Camaro was used in 18 observations and a 1984 Chrysler Laser in 2. This information was prepared exclusively for the National Weather service and the team of Skywarn storm spotters.

1). APR 15, 3:00 PM - Penetration of very strong to severe thunderstorms in Northern Miami, Florida near Interstate 95. A thunderstorm developed near Hialeah to the west and produced an outflow boundary that allowed a multicell cluster of strong to severe storms to develop. A storm cell penetrated contained torrential rains, winds over 50-MPH, pea-sized hail, and occasional lightning strikes. The storms were caused by sea breeze activity, a low-pressure trough, and subtropical jet stream aloft. A 1984 Chevy Camaro chased the storms. Documentation was still photos and audio recording.

2). APR 29, 3:00 PM - Direct penetration of a severe thunderstorm in the Everglades about 10 miles west of Weston, Florida on Alligator alley about 2 miles west of the toll plaza. As a core of one of these multicell storms was penetrated, pea to dime sized hail, winds at or exceeding 70-MPH, violent rain, and frequent lightning with close hits was observed. One strike started a small brush fire. Several penetrations were executed on this cell core as it crossed the highway southwards. The storms were caused by surface heating, an upper trough, and subtropical jet stream aloft. A 1984 Chevy Camaro chased the storms. Documentation was audio and still photos.

3). MAY 10, 3:00 PM - Penetration of strong thunderstorms developing along a squall line moving across southern Florida. The storms were encountered near Bell Glade, Florida and followed as the line of storms moved southeastwards into Broward County then Fort Lauderdale. Conditions observed in the strongest cell was very heavy rains, 45-MPH winds, and frequent lightning. A tornado formed in the anchor cell of this thunderstorm line in Southern Dade County, and was not intercepted. A 1984 Chevy Camaro chased the storms, caused by a squall line ahead of a frontal trough moving across Florida. Documentation was a camcorder.

4). JUN 4, 5:00 PM - Indirect penetration and observation of severe thunderstorms near the Tamarac and Lauderhill area in Florida. A multicell line of storms with some severe cells was observed, one cell was observed during its development stage. A brief F0 tornado was also spawned by this storm, but was to short lived to be observed. The core of this storm was not penetrated, but trees down, flooding, and tree debris in the street was observed on the southwest side of the storm after it passed. The storm also contained frequent lightning. A 1984 Chevy Camaro was used to chase the storms, caused by sea breeze activity and a low-pressure trough. Documentation was audio.

5). JUN 6, 2:00 PM - Observation of severe thunderstorm and tornado in western sections of Palm Beach, Florida. A chase track towards a possible HP or even classic supercell thunderstorm was executed from the south along State Road 7. The storm was just north of Wellington where a small F0 tornado and wall cloud was observed on its southwestern side. The core of this storm was not penetrated. The supercell later evolved into a large cluster of severe, but non-tornadic thunderstorms as the outflow spread southwards. These storms were confined to inland sections and not observed. The entire life span of this storm was also captured on video from a time lapse video camera mounted on the roof of a house in Margate, Florida nearly 50 miles away. The video clearly shows supercell evolution with SE winds at the ground and west winds at high altitudes. Also the bottom of the storm tower rotates counterclockwise as the storm "blows up" to the supercell stage, right about the time the tornado was being observed in the chase vehicle, a 1984 Chevy Camaro. Sea breezes and surface heating coupled with a low-pressure trough generated the storms. A moderate subtropical jet stream was also present aloft. Documentation was time lapse video from a distance, and audio from the chase vehicle.

6). JUN 11, 6:00 PM - Penetration of strong thunderstorms in the Fort Lauderdale area in south Florida. Frequent lightning, heavy rains, and 40-MPH winds were observed. The storms were a multicell cluster of storms developing along an outflow boundary moving southwards. A prefrontal wave ahead of a weak cold front, surface heating, and subtropical jet stream allowed the storms to develop. The storms were followed towards Dania before they moved out so sea. A weak tornado was also spawned by this storm but was not observed. A 1984 Chrysler Laser was used to chase the storms. Documentation was still photos and audio. A severe thunderstorm watch was also in effect for this area until 6PM.

7). JUN 19, 4:00 PM - Interception of a very strong thunderstorm near Copans Road and Interstate 95 in Pompano Beach, Florida. Frequent lightning, heavy rains, and 50-MPH winds were observed in this area. The storm was part of a multicell cluster of storms, one cell even spawned a small tornado near Miami International Airport, but was not observed. The storm was chased with a 1983 Chevy Cavalier. A sea breeze front, moist, unstable air, and surface trough allowed the storms to develop. Documentation was audio recording.

8). JUN 20, 4:00 PM - Indirect penetration of the eastern edge of a severe thunderstorm in the Everglades along the Sawgrass Expressway between Atlantic Boulevard and Sample Road near Coral Springs, Florida. A multicell cluster of storms, some severe, developed over the Everglades. The rain foot of this storms outflow side was penetrated, where 50-MPH winds and wind blown rains were observed. Frequent lightning was also observed near the gust front of this storm. The storm core was not penetrated directly. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier was used to chase the storms. A low-pressure trough and sea breezes caused the storm.

9). JUN 23, 5:00 PM - Interception of strong thunderstorms in western areas of Fort Lauderdale Florida. The chase, accompanied by guest Tony Ihrig, An outflow boundary with multicell storms was followed from the eastern Everglades to Pompano Beach, where the strongest cell core was penetrated near State Road 7 in North Lauderdale. Winds near 50-MPH, frequent lightning, and torrential rains were observed. Flooding and some tree debris also were found in the street. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier was used to chase the storms, which were caused by a low-pressure trough and surface heating. Documentation was a camcorder.

10). JUN 24, 2:30 PM - Penetration of a strong thunderstorm near northeast Dade County in the Adventura Area near Gulfstream Park. The storm contained 40 to 45-MPH winds, frequent lightning, and very heavy rains as it was penetrated near Biscayne Boulevard and Miami Gardens Drive. This storm was a rather short-lived multicell storm. Documentation was a camcorder. Surface heating and a low-pressure trough caused the storms. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier was used to observe the storms.

11). JUN 25, 3:30 PM - Direct penetration of a severe thunderstorm near University Drive and Sunrise Boulevard in Broward County, Florida. This storm, also a multicell storm, contained 60-MPH winds, dime to nickel sized hail, torrential rains, and frequent lightning. The storm was chased with a 1983 Chevy Cavalier. Surface heating and a low-pressure trough allowed the storms to develop. Documentation was a camcorder.

12). JUN 26, 7:00 PM - Penetration of strong thunderstorm line in from Palm Beach County southwards to Hollywood, Florida. An outflow boundary from further north moved southwards. This front was originally followed along State Road 7 from Palm Beach County. A multicell line of strong storms forming along this gust front was penetrated where frequent lightning, torrential rains, and 40 to 50-MPH winds were encountered. Flooding was observed with this storm. The storms were produced from a low-pressure trough, and a 1983 Chevy Cavalier chased them.

13). JUN 26, 7:15 PM - Observation of a brief F0 tornado near Atlantic Boulevard and Pine Island Road near Margate and Coral Springs, Florida. A strong thunderstorm, not intercepted, was moving across Pompano Beach at the time the funnel and possible tornado was observed in a small wall cloud on the southwest side of the storm. The tornado did not cause any major damage. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier was used in the observation. A low-pressure trough and surface heating caused the storm.

14). JUN 27, 2:30 PM - Penetration of a very strong thunderstorm cell near Ives Dairy Road along State Road 7 then northeastwards to near Fort Lauderdale International Airport. Winds near 50-MPH, torrential rains, and frequent lightning was observed. The storm was part of a multicell line of storms developing from a low-pressure trough and surface heating. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier was used to chase the storm. Documentation was a camcorder.

15). JUL 2, 3:00 PM - Direct penetration of a large severe thunderstorm over Pompano Beach, Florida near Atlantic Boulevard. Developing well ahead of a multicell line of storms to the west, a large thunderstorm with a well-developed inflow and small wall cloud on its southwest side was observed near Pompano Harness Track and Palm Aire. The storm moved into Pompano Beach where winds over 60-MPH, large hail to ¾ inch, frequent lightning with close hits, and extremely heavy rains were observed. The storm, possibly an HP supercell, had slight rotation but did not produce any tornadoes. The storms outflow finally spread out of the southern side of the storm and was tracked southward as far as Hollywood where strong storms were found. A wave of low-pressure, upper level low, and surface heating caused the severe storms. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier chased the storms. Documentation was a camcorder.

16). JUL 3, 8:30 PM - Direct penetration of a large and very severe thunderstorm in Broward County, Florida. At about 7:30 PM, a strong thunderstorm formed just north of Davie near Nob Hill Road. The storm was picked up at that point as it moved slowly towards the northeast. The storm evolved into an HP supercell storm, and tore slowly from its point of origin near Davie to the offshore waters off Deerfield Beach over a span of 2 ½ hours. During this single storm’s journey, many penetrations were executed on its core. The storm had frequent lightning in the Tamarac area with some close hits, one 20 feet above the chase vehicle where a streetlight exploded sending a shower of sparks everywhere. As it moved into North Lauderdale, small hail and 55-MPH winds was encountered with continuous lightning and heavy rains. As it moved into Coconut Creek and Margate, winds were gusting over 60-MPH with ½ inch hail. Lightning also hit the same tree next to the chase vehicle twice, about 5 seconds apart. As the storm moved into Pompano Beach, along Hammondville Road, hail 1 ½ inches was encountered on the southwest side of the storm. The hail covered the road like a thousand golf balls, mixed in with trees lying across the road, illuminated only by continuous lightning and the vehicles head lights. Power was knocked out in this area. The area of large hail contained little rain, just ice! It contained rather light winds and was adjacent to the rain free rear flank of the storm. The storm had rotation, but no known tornadoes were encountered. Continuing into Northern Pompano Beach, the southeast side of the storm was encountered. Here 75 to 80-MPH winds were found with small hail and extreme rains. The storm continued over Deerfield Beach then out to sea, still very severe. Observed damage was flooding, numerous downed trees, roof damage, signs blown down, damage to a car dealership, and a 90-foot section of a concrete wall demolished by winds. The chase vehicle suffered dings and paint damage from the hail. An upper level low-pressure area caused the storms, along with surface heating and a subtropical jet stream aloft. A cap allowed the storms to develop so late in the day, and no other storms developed outside of this supercell. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier chased the storms. Documentation was audio recording with narration.

17). JUL 13, 5:00 PM - Brief encounter with a very strong to severe thunderstorm near Glades Road and State Road 7 in Boca Raton, Florida. This pulse type storm contained torrential rains, frequent lightning, and winds gusting to 55-MPH. The storm developed from an outflow boundary moving in from the west. A tropical wave, upper trough, and moist, unstable air allowed the storms to develop. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier was used to chase the storms.

18). JUL 14, 1:30 PM - Penetration of a strong to severe thunderstorm near Margate and North Lauderdale, Florida. The pulse type storm rapidly developed and matured with 50 to 55-MPH winds, small hail, torrential rains and frequent lightning. The storm produced a rather sharp gust front that was encountered near Mcnab Road. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier was used to chase the storms, caused by an upper trough and abundant warm, unstable air.

19). JUL 21, 3:30 PM - Direct penetration of a small but severe thunderstorm in northern Margate along State Road 7 near the Sawgrass Expressway. A pulse type severe storm developed in an area of thunderstorms. When the core of this cell was penetrated, violent rains, frequent lightning, dime sized ½ inch hail, and 60 to 65-MPH winds were encountered. An area of cold air aloft, sea breezes, and moist tropical air allowed the storms to develop. A 1993 Chevy Cavalier was used to chase them. Documentation was still photos.

20). JUL 22, 5:00 PM - Direct penetration of a severe thunderstorm in Western areas of Broward County, Florida. This multicell to near supercell type storm was encountered near Interstate 595 and Interstate 75, where ¾ inch hail, frequent lightning with close hits, winds near 70-MPH, and extremely heavy rains were encountered. The storm lasted more than an hour with severe conditions. Downed trees and flooding was observed with this storm. An upper level low and low-pressure trough, coupled with surface heating caused the storms. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier was used to chase the storms. Documentation was a camcorder. Another chaser, Tony Ihrig, encountered 60-MPH winds and pea sized hail in the northern side of the storm cluster while observing it with a 1988 Mazda Pickup.

21). JUL 28, 3:30 PM - Observation of heavy swells in the Gulf Stream waters about 10 miles east of Pompano Beach, Florida. Hurricane Bertha, with 80-MPH winds, was 350 miles to the north east of the area at the time. The storm was drifting slowly to the north. Large swell waves about 8 feet high were observed traveling down the gulf stream, with a 1 to 2 foot NW wind chop superimposed on the swell. No swell was found near the coast or at the beach. A 1989 Sea Doo watercraft was used with permission to observe the swells, owned by Tony Ihrig.

22). AUG 3, 3:00 PM - Penetration of strong thunderstorms developing in a line of thunderstorms over Western Fort Lauderdale, Florida near Oakland Park Boulevard and followed along University drive to Griffith Road. One strong cell with frequent lightning, heavy rains, 40 to 45-MPH winds, and pea-sized hail was encountered. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier was used to chase the storms, documented with a camcorder. A sea breeze front and low-pressure trough allowed the storms to develop.

23). AUG 9, 2:30 PM - Interception and direct penetration of a severe thunderstorm over western Coral Springs between Atlantic Boulevard and Coral Springs. The storm developed over the Everglades and moved northeastwards into Coral Springs. The storm contained ½ to ¾ inch hail, torrential rains, 60-MPH winds, and frequent lightning. Flooding and downed trees was observed with this storm. Prior to interception, a spectacular gust front and shelf cloud was observed on the eastern side of the multicell storm. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier was used to chase the storms. Documentation was a camcorder.

24). AUG 10, 2:30 PM - Observation and indirect penetration of a severe thunderstorm in western areas of Sunrise, Florida near Oakland Park Boulevard and the Sawgrass Expressway. Frequent lightning and 25 to 30-MPH winds were observed with heavy rains. The storm core remained to the west in the Everglades. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier was used to chase the storms. Surface heating, and a weak surface and upper trough allowed the multicell storms to develop.

25). AUG 11, 4:00 PM - Direct penetration of a very severe thunderstorm near Sheridan Street and Interstate 75 in western Broward County, Florida. A multicell line of storms rapidly developed with one cell approaching supercell status. This storm was penetrated several times where torrential rains, frequent lightning with close hits, 65 to 70-MPH winds, and hail to 1 inch. The severe storm cluster produced a gust front that spread into the Miami area later. A strong storm with 50-MPH winds near the Palmetto Expressway and another near Miami International Airport with 35-MPH winds were both penetrated along the outflow boundary through Dade County. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier was used to chase the storms. A low-pressure trough, unstable air, and surface heating caused the storms. Documentation was a camcorder and still photos.

26). AUG 24, 2:00 PM - Penetration of a strong thunderstorm near Interstate 95 and Hollywood Boulevard. The storm was a pulse type storm and contained heavy rains, small hail, 50-MPH winds, and frequent lightning. Two guests, Nick Tsokris and Robert accompanied the chase through the storm. The storm was chased with a 1983 Chevy Cavalier and was formed by sea breeze activity and low-pressure trough. Documentation was a camcorder.

27). AUG 28, 4:00 PM - Indirect penetration and observation of a strong thunderstorm near Pompano Beach, Florida. The multicell storm was penetrated during the late mature stage where 30-MPH winds, heavy rains, and lightning was encountered. This storm had a very dark base and a well-developed shelf cloud associated with its gust front. Surface heating and an upper trough allowed the storms to develop. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier was used to chase them. Documentation was a camcorder.

28). AUG 29, 2:00 PM - Penetration of a strong thunderstorm in the northern Miami area in Florida. When the storm was penetrated, 40-MPH winds and heavy rain was observed. The storm was caused by surface heating and a low-pressure trough. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier was used to chase them.

29). AUG 31, 3:00 PM - Interception of a strong thunderstorm near Interstate 595 and Davie Road in Davie, Florida. Frequent lightning, 45-MPH winds, and heavy rain was observed with this storm. A low-pressure trough and moist, unstable air allowed the storms to develop. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier was used to chase them.

30). OCT 9, 12-1 PM - Observation of the effects of tropical storm Klaus as it was dissipating off the southeast Florida coast. The storm originally formed north of Puerto Rico and became a hurricane. The storm moved west and became affected be a large area of high-pressure to the north near Cape Hattaras and Bermuda. The storm began weakening as it approached Florida but had a large field of gale forced winds well to the north and west of its center. The resulting winds buffeted the Florida coast from Palm Beach to Dade Counties. At Boynton Beach, sustained 30-MPH east winds prevailed with 12-foot seas and tides 2 feet above normal. South of Lake Worth Inlet in West Palm Beach, seas were at least 15 feet with heavy rains squalls and winds gusting around 45-MPH. Tides here were 3 feet above normal with beach erosion. Flooding was also observed as the rain squalls and feeder bands moved inland. Tropical storm Klaus weakened when it became absorbed in another tropical system near Cuba to the south. The land observations of this storm were done in a 1983 Chevy Cavalier. Documentation was a camcorder.

31). OCT 11, 2-8 AM - Interception, observation, and direct penetration of tropical storm Marco as it made landfall in Sarasota, Florida along the Gulf Of Mexico beaches. The tropical storm began as a tropical system near Cuba that moved north into the Gulf of Mexico and strengthened to a tropical storm with 65-MPH sustained winds. Just shy of hurricane strength, the well-organized tropical storm made landfall in the Sarasota area south of Tampa Bay. The outer cloud margin of the storm was reached at 2 AM along Highway 70 about 60 miles east of Sarasota. The chase continued west into the outer then inner rain bands of Marco. Winds increased from 20-MPH to 40-MPH, then to 60-MPH in gusts by a AM. From 5 AM to 6 AM, the chase track passed through the foreword right quadrant of the storm. As Marco made landfall, the primary energy cell core was punched where a long ride through extremely heavy rains, frequent lightning, and southeast winds over 65-MPH with higher gusts was experienced. At about 6:30 AM, the eye was entered on Sarasota Beach. The wind and rain stopped completely. The unique sunrise inside the eye of the storm was observed from a beach on the Gulf Of Mexico on Sarasota Island. The calm lasted about an hour and had a warm temperatures, clear blue skies, and calm winds. A large eye-wall section, shot with lightning, extended a third to half way around the eye with a smaller eye-wall on the south side. An Air force WC-130 was also circling overhead inside the eye. Chasing resumed as the second half moved onshore. Winds began at 50 to 55-MPH from the west and tides began to rise. Seas were only about 3 to 5 feet on the Gulf because winds have been offshore most of the time. By about 8 AM, the last inner rain bands on the storms backside were being penetrated. Observed damage was numerous downed trees and signs, coastal flooding, flooding from rains, and power out in many places. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier was used to chase the storm. Documentation was audio recording, a camcorder, and still photos.

32). OCT 24, 4:00 PM - Observation of funnel cloud on the southwestern side of a strong thunderstorm near Commercial Boulevard and Powerline Road. This thunderstorm was not penetrated because of heavy traffic near the storm. The funnel was brief and formed on a wall cloud on the read side of the storm. A jet stream aloft and advancing cold front allowed the storms to develop. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier chased the storms. Documentation was still photos.

33). OCT 28, 3:00 PM - Observation of heavy sea and swell conditions about 5 miles off shore of Boca Raton, Florida. Waves at the beach were about 3 to 5-foot seas, with 8-foot northeast swells beneath them as you went about 5 miles out, near the Gulf Stream current. A winter like storm was off New England and generated the swells as it moved near Cape Hattaras the night before. A 1989 Sea Doo watercraft, owned by Tony Ihrig and used with his permission, was used to observe the sea conditions.

This concludes the 1990 chase season. The summary includes a total of 33 chases or observations. Out of these chases, 15 severe thunderstorms, 3 tornadoes, 12 strong thunderstorms, 2 tropical systems, and 2 coastal observations were involved. Among these chases, a 1984 Chevy Camaro was used in 5 observations, a 1983 Chevy Cavalier in 25, and a 1984 Chrysler Laser in 1. The two coastal observations were done with a 1989 Bombardier Sea Doo Watercraft. This information was prepared exclusively for the National Weather service and the team of Skywarn storm spotters.

1). JAN 15, 4:00 PM - Observation of wall cloud and rear flank section of a tornadic thunderstorm near the Dade and Broward county areas in Florida. The thunderstorm was an HP supercell that moved from Southern Miami to the Fort Lauderdale area. While passing over Hialeah, the storm produced a strong F1 tornado that moved as far north as Perry Airport. The storm was first penetrated near Davie, Florida where very heavy rains and 30 to 40-MPH wind gusts were encountered. When the southwest side of the storm was reached, a wall cloud was found. The tornado itself was not observed. The storm was caused by cold air aloft ahead of an advancing complex of thunderstorms with winds that veered with height. Also, a relatively strong jet stream prevailed aloft. The storms were chased with a 1983 Chevy Cavalier.

2). MAR 3, 4:00 PM - Penetration of severe thunderstorms in Palm Beach County near Wellington and Royal Palm Beach, Florida, along Highway 98. The storm was a multicell cluster containing at least one severe storm cell that actually split into two severe thunderstorms. The cell to the north became briefly tornadic but was not intercepted. Conditions in the southern cell contained ¼ inch hail, lightning, extremely heavy rains, and winds over 60-MPH. The storm moved rapidly to the east at about 55-MPH. Palm Beach International Airport measured 66-MPH winds from this storm. The storm was part of a multicell squall line ahead of a strong cold front. A prefrontal wave, converging moisture, and strong jet stream aloft set the stage for the storms. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier chased them. Documentation was a camcorder. A tornado watch also was in effect for the area until 5 PM.

3). MAR 3, 5:00 PM - Penetration of a severe thunderstorm near Deerfield Beach, Florida along Interstate 95. This storm was a small pulse type severe storm developing along a squall line. One penetration on this cell was executed where winds 55 to 60-MPH and heavy rain was encountered. The storm was caused by a strong cold front, a prefrontal wave, and a strong jet stream aloft. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier chased the storms. Documentation was a camcorder. A tornado watch was also in effect for this area until 5 PM.

4). MAR 11, 1:30 PM - Observation of large north and northwest wind and ground swell waves in the Gulf Stream waters about 10 miles east of Boynton Beach, Florida. A north swell of 8 to 10 feet with 3 to 5 foot northwest wind seas superimposed on top was observed in the western edge of the Gulf Stream current. Outside the Gulf Stream, only 3 to 4 foot seas from the north or northwest were observed. No swell reached the coast, except for Miami, over 35 miles to the south, were 8 to 10 foot northeast swell hit South Beach. A storm off the New England states generated the ground swell after the passage of a cold front. A 1990 Sea Doo watercraft was used to observe the waves.

5). APR 3, 2:00 PM - Observation of large wind and sea conditions about 5 or 10 miles east of Boynton Beach, Florida. Near the coast, winds were 20-MPH from the north to northeast, with 3 to 4 foot seas. In the west edge of the Gulf Stream, a 10 to 15 foot north to northeast wind swell prevailed. A freighter ship, the Feedship II, was observed rolling in the seas. The entire propeller became visible as the ship’s stern rose completely out of the water. The bow also was lifted where the ship’s keel became visible as it steamed northwards through the seas. A building area of high-pressure from Canada to the northwest following the passage of a cold front produced the seas. A 1990 Sea Doo watercraft was used to observe the waves.

6). APR 4, 3:00 PM - Observation of large wind swell conditions off Boynton Beach, Florida. The winds were northeast at 20 to 25-MPH with 5 to 7 foot seas. About 5 miles offshore, seas of 6 to 8 feet were observed just west of the Gulf Stream current. The seas remained high until breaking on the beach. A 1990 Sea Doo watercraft was used to chase the storms. Documentation was a camcorder, waterproofed and mounted on the front of the watercraft. High-pressure to the north of the area and a stalled front to the south allowed the strong winds to prevail.

7). APR 5, 2:00 PM - Observation of heavy sea conditions east of Boynton Beach, Florida. The winds were east to northeast at about 25 to 30-MPH, with seas near the coast of over 8 feet and as high as 10 to 12 feet about 5 miles offshore near the Gulf Stream current. Some heavy but brief wind swept showers passed as the observation was being made. A strong high-pressure area to the north and frontal trough to the south allowed the strong winds to prevail. A 1990 Sea Doo watercraft was used to observe the waves. Documentation was still photos of the seas.

8). APR 17, 8:30 PM - Penetration of a strong thunderstorm near Coconut Creek, Florida. The storm was encountered near Lyons Road and State Road 7, and contained 50-MPH winds, frequent lightning, and very heavy rains. A prefrontal wave and low-pressure trough produced the storms, developing along an outflow boundary. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier was used to chase the storms.

9). APR 25, 4:00 PM - Penetration of a strong thunderstorm developing near State Road 7 near Belle Glade and Royal Palm Beach, Florida. Winds in this storm gusted to 45-MPH, with heavy rains and small hail. A complex of thunderstorms was moving across central Florida, and a cluster of strong storms formed on the leading edge of it. An upper trough and surface heating allowed the storms to develop. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier was used to chase them. Documentation was a camcorder.

10). APR 26, 2:30 PM - Direct penetration of a severe thunderstorm in Pembroke Pines, Florida near University Drive and Sheridan Street. Conditions encountered were ½ to ¾ inch hail, frequent lightning, torrential rains, and winds over 60-MPH. The multicell storm was penetrated several times during this observation. The storm was caused by an upper trough, sea breeze activity, and unstable air. The storm also spawned a funnel cloud on its northwest side that was observed. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier was used to chase the storms. Documentation was still photos and a camcorder.

11). MAY 13, 4:00 PM - Penetration of a strong thunderstorm near University Drive in Sunrise, Florida. A brief encounter of 45-MPH winds, heavy rains, and frequent lightning was encountered with this storm. Sea breeze activity and a surface trough helped produce the storms. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier was used to chase them.

12). MAY 15, 1:30 PM - Penetration of a strong thunderstorm and possible tornado observation in Boca Raton, Florida along State Road 7 near Palmetto Park Road. When the storm was penetrated, torrential rains with ½ inch hail, frequent lightning with close hits, and 35-MPH winds was encountered. When the storm was exited, a wall cloud was on the southwest side of it with a small dust whirl at the ground. This was a weak tornado, probably F0, and did not have a visible condensation funnel. Damage was minimal, if any. The storm was caused by a low-pressure trough and surface heating. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier chased them.

13). MAY 31, 4:00 PM - Penetration of a severe thunderstorm near Highway 98 in Wellington, Florida. The storm was a multicell storm with torrential rains, ½ inch hail, frequent lightning, and 60-MPH winds near its core. The storm was caused by a low-pressure trough and surface heating. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier was used to chase them. The area in Palm Beach County where this storm was observed was also in a severe thunderstorm watch until 5 PM. Documentation was audio recording and still photos.

14). JUN 5, 3:00 PM - Interception of strong thunderstorms south of Deerfield Beach, Florida. Conditions observed with these storms were 30-MPH winds and extremely heavy rains. The storms were observed with a 1983 Chevy Cavalier. Sea breeze activity and a weak trough produced the storms.

15). JUN 6, 2:30 PM - Penetration of very strong thunderstorms near North Lauderdale and Margate, Florida. The storms had torrential rains, 50-MPH winds, and frequent lightning with close hits. Some flooding was observed with this storm. A weakening cold front and trough coupled with sea breeze activity allowed the storms to develop. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier was used to chase them.

16). JUN 16, 7:00 PM - Penetration of strong thunderstorms in Coral Springs, Florida. Thunderstorms developed southward from the Loxahatchee refuge area west of Deerfield Beach as far as western areas of Fort Lauderdale. In Coral Springs, near Riverside Drive, the storms became strong with 45-MPH winds, torrential rains, and frequent lightning with close hits. An approaching low-pressure trough and surface heating produced the storms. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier chased them. Documentation was audio recording.

17). JUN 17, 2:00 PM - Direct penetration of a very severe thunderstorm near Hollywood and Pembroke Pines, Florida along Hollywood Boulevard near the Florida Turnpike. The storm was a powerful multicell storm which weakened just before evolving to a supercell. The storm core contained 60 to 65-MPH winds, frequent lightning with close hits, torrential rains, and 1-inch hail. The storm was penetrated several times during its life span of about 30 to 45 minutes. Large hail exceeding the size of quarters was observed on the updraft side of the storm during one of the penetrations. The strong winds and heavy rain were found further east in the storm cell. A low-pressure trough and sea breeze activity produced the storms. Documentation of this storm was a camcorder and audio recording. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier was used to chase the storm.

18). JUN 18, 2:00 PM - Interception and penetration of a very strong to severe thunderstorm in Margate and Coral Springs, Florida along Sample Road. Winds were 55 to 60-MPH, with torrential rain, small hail to ¼ inch, and lightning. The storm was caused by sea breeze activity and a low-pressure trough. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier was used to chase them. Documentation was a camcorder.

19). JUN 18, 3:30 PM - Indirect penetration of a strong to severe thunderstorm near Interstate 75 and Interstate 595 in western Broward county, Florida. The storm was a multicell storm and the chase track passed through the gust front and the south side of the strong to severe thunderstorm cell. 50-MPH winds with small hail, frequent lightning with close hits, and heavy rains were observed. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier was used to chase the storms. Sea breezes, an outflow boundary, and a low-pressure trough produced the storms. Documentation was a camcorder and still photos.

20). JUN 23, 6:00 PM - Penetration of strong thunderstorms near the Loxahatchee refuge just west of State Road 7 on Lox Road. Frequent lightning, torrential rains, and 45-MPH winds were observed. A low-pressure trough and surface heating caused the storms. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier was used to chase them.

21). JUN 24, 1:30 PM - Direct penetration of a strong to severe thunderstorm just west of Interstate 75 along Hollywood Boulevard. Winds approaching 60-MPH, torrential rains, and frequent lightning was observed in this multicell storm. The storm also produced a meso anticyclone, a large dome of cold air from downdrafts, about 30 miles across after the storm weakened. Tropical moisture and an upper trough helped produce the storms. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier was used to chase them.

22). JUN 26, 5:15 PM - Direct penetration of a severe thunderstorm along Cypress Creek Road near State Road 7 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. A multicell storm cluster formed in central Broward County and developed northward where they were intercepted and penetrated. As the cluster moved northwards, it evolved to an HP supercell. When this cell was penetrated, ½ inch hail, extremely heavy rains, frequent lightning with close hits, and winds at or over 70-MPH were observed. The storm continued north into Boca Raton, where 10 homes were damaged by an F1 tornado produced by the same storm. The tornado was not intercepted. Trees down were observed with this storm. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier was used to chase the storms, caused by surface heating and a low-pressure trough.

23). JUL 4, 3:00 PM - Penetration of a strong thunderstorm near Nob Hill Road and Sunrise Boulevard in Sunrise, Florida. The storm contained 30 to 35-MPH winds, frequent lightning, and heavy rains. A low-pressure trough and surface heating produced the storms. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier was used to chase them.

24). JUL 10, 5:00 PM - Penetration of a strong thunderstorm in Palm Beach County, Florida near Congress Avenue and Boynton Beach Boulevard. A strong thunderstorm developed in a multicell cluster of thunderstorms. When this cell was penetrated, 35-MPH winds, frequent lightning, heavy rains, and ½ inch hail was encountered. Two funnel clouds were produced by this storm system but were not observed during the chase. The storm developed beneath a low-pressure area aloft, and was triggered by surface heating. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier was used to chase them.

25). JUL 13, 5:00 PM - Penetration of a very strong thunderstorm in Coral Springs, Florida near Sample Road and University Drive. The storm contained winds gusting near 50-MPH, torrential rains, and frequent lightning. The storm also caused street flooding. The storm was caused by a mid level low-pressure area, surface heating, and a low-pressure trough. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier was used to chase the storms.

26). JUL 28, 3:30 PM - Penetration of a strong thunderstorm near Flamingo Road and Sheridan Street near Pembroke Pines, Florida. The storm contained torrential rains, frequent lightning, and 35 to 40-MPH winds. Surface heating and an upper trough produced the storms. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier was used to chase them.

27). JUL 30, 2:00 PM - Penetration of a strong thunderstorm near Sunrise Boulevard and Interstate 95 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The storm was moving rapidly northward from Dade County and when penetrated, had 35 to 40-MPH winds, frequent lightning, and heavy rains. The storm was caused by an low-pressure trough and surface heating. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier chased the storms.

28). JUL 31, 4:00 PM - Direct penetration of a brief, but very intense severe thunderstorm with damaging winds along Lyons Road just north of the Sawgrass Expressway in Deerfield Beach, Florida. This storm was a slow moving and very intense pulse type severe thunderstorm. The storm was first observed while turning south on Lyons road south of Hillsboro Boulevard. The storm suddenly dropped a wet microburst just north of the Sawgrass Expressway. Within seconds after sighting the rain foot, winds began gusting over 70-MPH. Continuing south on Lyons Road, winds exceeded 75-MPH and approached 100-MPH, shaking the chase vehicle and making a loud roaring or moaning sound. Rain was extremely torrential with ½ to ¾ inch hail and frequent lightning. No more than 5 minutes later, the storm was only producing heavy rain and 25-MPH winds! The possible 100-MPH winds lasted no more that 30 seconds. Fortunately, this violent microburst slammed into the ground in a wooded area between populated areas, and missed a mobile home park off Lyons Road by a half a mile. Of course, trees, signs, and power lines were blown down in the area the pulse storm hit. A low-pressure trough and sea breeze activity produced the storms. A 1983 Chevy Camaro was used to chase the storm. Documentation was a camcorder.

29). AUG 1, 3:00 PM - Indirect penetration and observation of as severe thunderstorm near Perry Airport in Carol City, Florida. The storm was originally severe but weakened at the time of observation. As the storm was penetrated, 35 to 40-MPH winds, heavy rains, and lightning was observed. The storm was a cell on the south end of a multicell line of thunderstorms. A broad tropical low to the northwest, surface heating, and a low-pressure trough produced the storms. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier was used to chase the storm.

30). AUG 9, 3:00 PM - Penetration of a small but strong thunderstorm near Davie, Florida just south of Interstate 595 near Davie road. The storm was observed with a rain foot across Interstate 595 while headed eastbound. Near Davie Road, ½ inch hail, heavy rains, lightning, and 45-MPH winds were encountered. The storm was forming along a sea breeze front, and was supported by a low-pressure trough. Documentation was still photos. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier chased the storms.

31). AUG 14, 4:00 PM - Penetration of a brief but fairly strong thunderstorm along Sample Road in eastern Coral Springs, Florida. Very heavy rains and 50-MPH winds were encountered. The storms were produced by a weak trough of low-pressure and surface heating. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier was used to chase them.

32). AUG 15, 3:00 PM - Penetration of a strong thunderstorm near Atlantic Boulevard and the Sawgrass Expressway in Coral Springs, Florida. The storm was part of a multicell line of storms and contained 40 to 45-MPH winds and very heavy rain. A trough of low-pressure and surface heating produced the storms. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier chased them.

33). AUG 21, 6:30 PM - Observation and indirect penetration of a severe thunderstorm west of Parkland, Florida near the Everglades. The storm could not be reached, and only frequent lightning and light rain was observed. The storm was a possible HP supercell with a slight rotation, wall cloud, and well developed inflow on its southern side. The storm developed on a triple point between two occluding outflow boundaries. A stationary front to the northwest, surface heating, and low-pressure trough allowed the storms to develop. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier was used to chase the storm. Documentation was still photos.

34). AUG 22, 2:00 PM - Penetration of a very strong to briefly severe thunderstorm near University Drive and Mcnab Road in Tamarac, Florida. A multicell line of heavy thunderstorms was found extending from northwest Miami to southern Palm Beach County. A small region of 60-MPH winds was found in the cell near Tamarac, along with frequent lightning and heavy rains. Sea breeze activity, a tropical wave, and a low-pressure trough set the stage for the storms. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier chased them.

35). AUG 25, 3:00 PM - Penetration of a strong thunderstorm in southern Deerfield Beach, Florida near Lyons Road and Hillsboro Boulevard. Torrential rains, 45 to 50-MPH winds, and frequent lightning with close hits was observed with this storm. The storm was caused by surface heating and a low-pressure trough. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier was used to chase them.

36). SEP 30, 1:00 PM - Observation of a moderate nor’ Easter affecting Boynton Beach, Florida at Boynton Inlet. Winds were east to northeast at 30 to 35-MPH with rough sea conditions. Waves at the beach were 6 to 8 feet with sets to 10 feet. About 3 miles offshore near the Gulf Stream current, the seas were at least 10 feet. The breakers from this wind swell washed over the jetty at Boynton Inlet. These wind conditions were caused by a strong area of high-pressure to the north and stalled frontal area to the south. Rain showers were also observed during the observation, done with a 1990 Sea Doo watercraft.

37). OCT 31, 8-3 PM - Observation of extremely high swell waves slamming into the barrier islands and beaches of Palm Beach County, Florida. Weather that Halloween day was sunny with light winds and temperatures in the low 80’s. First observation was done off of Lake Worth Inlet in West Palm Beach from about 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM. The largest swell waves to hit this area in about 30 years were affecting the coastline. Breakers at least 20 to 25 feet, maybe 30 feet, were observed breaking a mile or so offshore of Lake Worth Inlet. Waves at the beach were anywhere from 15 to 20 feet. A pilot boat capsized while trying to enter the inlet at around 1 PM. The observation then continued south to Lake Worth Municipal Pier by 2:00 PM, where waves were observed coming across A1A and destroying the sea wall. At high tide, 20 foot plus waves were observed smashing 200 feet off the end of the fishing pier in seconds. The observation continued south on A1A to Boynton Inlet where 15 to 20 foot waves covered the entire beach and sand transfer station on the north side of the inlet. At one point the entire inlet was covered by a huge breaker. As I was observing this, the wave dragged me 50 feet cutting my feet up and nearly sweeping me into the inlet. Another observer, further out on the same jetty, was swept into a fence on the side of the inlet and suffered severe avulsions to his arm. Damage observed was severe beach erosion, parts of piers and sea walls smashed to bits, huge concrete slabs thrown across A1A and destroying property, waves smashing into the Breakers Hotel and Beach Club, sea buoys torn loose and washed high up on the beach. Tides at one point were 10 to 15 feet above normal in some places! Most damage and injuries occurred at high tide, miraculously, there were no deaths. A very powerful storm with 80-MPH winds was drifting southward east of the New England states until off Cape Hattaras. This huge storm was a non-tropical low that absorbed the remnants of Hurricane Grace. The storm had sustained 80-MPH winds with stronger gusts, a 500 to 1000 mile fetch with a 72-hour duration aiming the swell right towards Florida. The huge swells had a 20-second period in deep water while off Palm Beach. The swell affected the entire area from Florida to Puerto Rico and was similar to an East Coast storm in March of 1962. A 1990 Sea Doo watercraft was used for the extremely dangerous observation of the swell off lake Worth Inlet. The land observations were done with a 1983 Chevy Cavalier. Documentation was still photos of the damage.

This concludes the 1991 chase season. The summary includes a total of 38 chases or observations. Out of these chases, 13 severe thunderstorms were involved, 17 strong thunderstorms, 2 Tornadoes, and 6 coastal observations. There were no tropical systems observed this season. Among these chases, a 1983 Chevy Cavalier was used in 33 observations and a 1990 Sea Doo watercraft was used in 6. This information was prepared exclusively for the National Weather service and the team of Skywarn storm spotters.

1). JAN 23, 2:00 PM - Penetration of a strong thunderstorm in northwest Fort Lauderdale, Florida near NW 31 Avenue and Cypress Creek Road. Heavy rains, occasional lightning, and 45-MPH winds were observed. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier was used to chase the storms. A cold front and low-pressure trough beneath a jet stream aloft caused the storms.

2). FEB 2, 3:00 PM - Observation of heavy northerly wind and ground swells in the offshore waters near the Gulf Stream 4 to 5 miles east of Boynton Beach, Florida. The northerly swells were traveling southward along the west edge of the Gulf Stream from a storm off Maine. Only small waves were present close to shore, but 8 to 10 foot swell superimposed with a small wind sea from the north ,was found near the Gulf Stream. A 1990 Sea Doo watercraft was used to observe the waves.

3). FEB 5, 10:00 AM - Observation of a weak gustnado type tornado west of Interstate 75 and north of Interstate 595 near Plantation, Florida. The F0 tornado formed along a strong gust front associated with a line of strong thunderstorms. Winds as this line passed shifted from the south to the northwest at 50-MPH with heavy rains. No damage was observed. The storms formed along a strong cold front with a squall line beneath a strong jet stream aloft. The storms were chased with a 1983 Chevy Cavalier. Documentation was still photos. A tornado watch was also in effect for the area until 11 AM.

4). MAR 28, 6:30 PM - Penetration of a strong thunderstorm near Boynton Beach Boulevard along State Road 7 in Boynton Beach, Florida. Lightning, torrential rains, and winds gusting to around 50-MPH were observed with this storm. The storm was part of a complex of thunderstorms where cold air and strong winds were present aloft, with a trough of low-pressure and unstable air. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier was used to chase the storms.

5). APR 31, 11:00 AM - Observation of heavy northeasterly ground swells affecting the Palm Beach Florida coast at Lake Worth Inlet. The northeast swells, about 15 feet high at times, were breaking at least 300 yards offshore. The swells were being generated by a gale center near Bermuda at the time. A 1990 Sea Doo watercraft was used to observe the waves. Winds at the time of the observation were light with sunny skies. Documentation was still photos.

6). JUN 10, 2:00 PM - Penetration of strong to locally severe thunderstorms in Fort Lauderdale, Florida near NW 31 Avenue and Broward Boulevard. The storm had frequent lightning and 30-MPH winds, but a brief area of ½ to ¾ inch hail was encountered in this pulse type storm. A low-pressure trough and surface heating caused the storms. A 1983 Chevy Cavalier chased them. Documentation was a camcorder.

7). JUN 13, 2:30 PM - Penetration of a very strong to possibly severe thunderstorm near Sample Road and State Road 7 in Margate, Florida. Torrential rains, lightning, and winds around 55-MPH were encountered in a small area during this pulse type storm. A low-pressure trough and surface heating was responsible for the storms. A 1987 Chevy Cavalier Wagon chased the storms.

8). JUN 15, 3:00 PM - Penetration of severe thunderstorm conditions near State Road 7 and Interstate 595 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Winds gusting near 60-MPH, ½ inch hail, heavy rains, and frequent lightning was found in this multicell storm. The storm caused by surface heating and a weak low-pressure trough. A 1987 Chevy Cavalier Wagon was used to chase the storms.

9). JUN 20, 2:30 PM - Penetration of a strong to severe thunderstorm near Rock Island Road and NW 62 Avenue in North Lauderdale and Tamarac. The storm core had frequent lightning with close hits, torrential rains of over 3 inches per hour, 50 to 55-MPH winds, and small hail. A 1987 Chevy Cavalier Wagon was used to chase the storms. The storm was caused by surface heating and a low-pressure trough.

10). JUN 22, 7:00 PM - Penetration of a strong thunderstorm in northwest sections of Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The storm was a multicell cluster of very heavy rain showers and thunderstorms producing rains of 3 to 5 inches per hour. When these storms were penetrated, lightning, extremely heavy rains, and 45-MPH winds were observed. A tropical disturbance near Cuba to the south and a low-pressure trough allowed the storms to train across southern Florida. Some streets were observed under 3 feet of water in this storm. A 1987 Chevy Cavalier Wagon chased the storms. Documentation was a camcorder.

11). JUL 4, 4:00 PM - Penetration of a very strong to severe thunderstorm in Coconut Creek, Florida. The storm produced frequent lightning, torrential rains, winds 50 to 55-MPH, and ½ inch hail was observed with this storm. An upper trough and sea breezes allowed this storm to develop. A 1987 Chevy Cavalier Wagon was used to chase them.

12). JUL 31, 3:30 PM - Penetration of some periphery of a severe thunderstorm north of Coral Springs, Florida. The storm produced a funnel cloud that was observed near Boca Raton. This touched down as a tornado later in Coral Springs while the parent storm was being penetrated. The touchdown was not observed. Winds in this storm gusted to around 55-MPH, with torrential rains and frequent lightning. A surface trough and sea breeze activity allowed these storms to develop. A 1987 Chevy Cavalier Wagon was used to chase them.

13). AUG 3, 2:30 PM - Penetration of severe thunderstorms in eastern Broward County, Florida. The multicell storm contained torrential rains, winds over 50-MPH, and frequent lightning. The storm was intercepted during the late part of the mature stage. An upper air low and surface heating caused the storms. A 1987 Chevy Cavalier Wagon was used to chase the storm.

14). AUG 17, 3:00 PM - Penetration of strong thunderstorms in Coconut Creek, Florida near Lyons Road. Winds gusted to 45-MPH, torrential rains and some lightning. The storm was caused by a weak surface trough and surface heating. A 1987 Chevy Cavalier Wagon was used to chase the storms.

15). AUG 18, 2:00 PM - Penetration of strong thunderstorms in Sunrise, Florida near University Drive and Sunrise Boulevard. Winds gusting to 50-MPH, frequent lightning with close hits, and very heavy rain were observed with this storm. The storm was caused by a surface trough, sea breezes, and surface heating. A 1987 Chevy Cavalier Wagon was used to chase the storms.

16). AUG 20, 1:00 PM - Penetration of a strong thunderstorm near Griffith Road and Interstate 75 in Cooper City, Florida. The storm contained very heavy rain, small hail, frequent lightning, and 50-MPH wind gusts. The storm was triggered by sea breezes and a weakening low-pressure trough. A 1987 Chevy Cavalier Wagon was used to chase the storms.

17). AUG 24, 12-10 AM - Interception, observation, and direct penetration of super hurricane Andrew (category 5) in the south Dade County area in South Florida. Hurricane Andrew, the first named storm of one of the quietest hurricane seasons in 50 years, began as a tropical low off the African coast near Cape Verde. It strengthened into a tropical storm north of Puerto Rico and was nearly sheared apart by strong upper air winds. Unfortunately, high-pressure built in aloft quickly, and the storm undergone rapid deepening east of the Bahamas. The storm ripped through the central Bahamas before being pushed west at 17-MPH into Florida. The hurricane strengthened to 165-MPH sustained winds with a pressure of 921 MB! The observation of this storm was conducted from a Red Cross shelter in Macmillan High School southern Kendall near SW 62 Street. The shelter was about 10 to 15 miles inland. From about 12 to 1:00 AM, strong winds and rainsqualls began affecting the area. By 2:00 AM, winds were gusting over 50-MPH with heavy rain showers. This is when I reached the shelter, and parked the chase vehicle between two reinforced concrete walls ignoring all officials’ requests to move it. By 3:00 AM, winds reached hurricane force with numerous power flashes from power lines being taken out and heavy rains. By 3:30 AM, the first 100-MPH+ gust blew through, and everyone was ordered inside. From 4:00 AM to about 5:30 AM, the eye-wall passed by. North to Northeast winds sustained well over 120-MPH with gusts to 168-MPH were observed! Most of the roof was torn off the second floor of the shelter and an entire classroom had its outer wall destroyed. The entire shelter shook and your ears constantly popped from the static (barometric drop) and dynamic (ramming of winds) pressure changes. The wind increased to a load roar similar to a train or jet plane and high-speed jets of water began shooting from under the main steel door of the shelter by 5:00 AM. A brief calm passed shortly after as the space between the outer and inner eye-walls of the double eye-wall hurricane passed by. The wind and rain did not let up completely during this lull. The rain and wind resumed, but on the other side from the south to southeast. Everything began to let up quickly by 6:30 AM. At 7:30 AM, the shelter doors were opened. Damage was extensive, almost every tree down, roofs missing off many homes, almost every car in the shelter parking lot severely damaged or flipped over. A large rescue vehicle parked 50 feet in front of the shelter entrance was now only 5 feet away. Pieces of the school roof were strewn around the sides of the building. Winds at this time were still at least 60-MPH with moderate rains. The clouds in the sky appeared as if they were in time lapse motion. The chase vehicle, parked in its reinforced concrete "nook", was intact. Only a bent antenna and severe damage to the white paint, sand blasted by flying dirt and sand. The journey back to the Miami area took hours, navigating around countless debris, downed trees, and power lines. Some outer feeder bands were penetrated, where 65 to 70-MPH winds and torrential rains were encountered. Flooding was very bad, especially near the waterfront in downtown Miami, where streets were flooded with salt water and boats were high and dry. This storm was the costliest disaster in US history, causing 30 billion dollars in damage, luckily only about 30 people were killed in Florida. Homestead, just south of Kendall, had winds over 200-MPH with over 90 percent of the city totally destroyed. The chase vehicle for this incredible observation was a 1987 Chevy Cavalier Wagon. Documentation, before, during, and after the storm was a camcorder and still photos. The storm was originally rated a category 4 hurricane but was later upgraded to a category 5 in late 2002 by the NHC! Only two other storms of category 5 intensity hit the US ... Hurricane Camille in 1969 and the "Labor Day Hurricane" of 1935.

18). SEP 28, 11-1 PM - Observation of the coastal effects of the western side of a tropical depression off Cape Canaveral, Florida. Some heavy rains, mainly in squalls, with 30-MPH winds were observed. The ocean had swells as high as 8 feet. A 1987 Chevy Cavalier Wagon was used to chase the storms. The storm later developed into a tropical storm, Earl, off the northeast Florida coast. The storm never came ashore in the US, the closest point was 50 to 75 miles east of Cape Canaveral during its depression stage.

19). OCT 6, 4:00 PM - Observation of heavy northeast swells as high as 10 feet off Lake Worth and Boynton Beaches, Florida. Several miles out, near the Gulf Stream, 8-foot wind waves were observed from the north to northwest. The swells were also observed at Lake Worth Inlet, in West Palm Beach. The 8 to 10 foot swells were being generated by strong winds near gale force in an area just northeast of the Florida East Coast. A 1990 Sea Doo watercraft was used to observe the storms. Documentation was still photos.

20). OCT 28, 4:00 PM - Interception of a brief strong thunderstorm in northwest Fort Lauderdale, Florida near Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport. The storms contained heavy rains and 35-MPH winds. The storm was caused by a stationary front and upper trough. A 1987 Chevy Cavalier Wagon was used to chase the storms.

21). NOV 10, 2-4 PM - Observation of large wind swell conditions off Boynton Beach, Florida. Easterly winds were observed at 30 to 35-MPH with higher gusts. 10 to 15 foot wind waves, and wind swell, was observed at Boynton Inlet and a few miles offshore. The waves broke about 10 feet high when they reached the beach. A 1990 Sea Doo watercraft was used to observe the waves. The winds and seas were caused by a strong high-pressure area to the north interacting with a stalled cold front to the south with an upper trough. Some heavy rain and thunder accompanied the observation. Documentation was still photos.

22). DEC 10, 1:00 PM - Penetration of strong thunderstorms in Palm Beach County, Florida. The storm was part of a squall line where torrential rains and 40-MPH winds were encountered. Some cells along this line were severe but were not intercepted. The storms were caused by a strong cold front and squall line crossing Florida. The storm intercepted was followed from Royal Palm Beach to State Road 7 and was moving at nearly 40-MPH. A 1987 Chevy Cavalier Wagon was used to chase the storms.

This concludes the 1992 chase season. The summary includes a total of 22 chases or observations. Out of these chases, 7 severe thunderstorms were involved, 8 strong thunderstorms, 1 Tornado, 2 tropical system observations, one of which was Hurricane Andrew, and 4 coastal observations. Among these chases, a 1983 Chevy Cavalier was used in 4 observations, a 1987 Chevy Cavalier Wagon was used in 14 chases, and a 1990 Sea Doo watercraft was used in 4. This information was prepared exclusively for the National Weather service and the team of Skywarn storm spotters.

1). FEB 22, 7:30 PM - Penetration of the southwest side of a severe thunderstorm near inland sections of northern Palm Beach County, Florida along Highway 710. The storm was part of a multicell squall line and contained frequent lightning, heavy rains, and winds gusting near 60-MPH near its gust front. The storms were developing ahead of a cold front in unstable air beneath a jet stream aloft. A 1987 Chevy Cavalier Wagon was used to chase the storms. A tornado watch box was also in effect until 11 PM.

2). FEB 22, 10:30 PM - Penetration of a severe thunderstorm in Margate, Florida near Sample Road and State Road 7. The storm was a rather small severe thunderstorm cell developing along an outflow boundary well ahead of a cold front. Frequent lightning, very heavy rains, and 60-MPH winds were experienced while penetrating this storm. The storm developed ahead of a cold front under a strong jet stream aloft. A 1987 Chevy Cavalier Wagon was used to chase the storms. A tornado watch box was also in effect until 11 PM. Documentation was still photos.

3). MAR 13, 4:15 AM - Interception and direct penetration of an extremely severe thunderstorm along Highway 98 midway between Royal Palm Beach and Belle Glade in unpopulated Palm Beach County, Florida. The storm was part of an extremely powerful squall line associated with "The great storm of 1993" as it moved rapidly across Florida. At 4:15 AM, the gust front of the squall line was penetrated with an onslaught of 70-MPH winds from the south southwest nearly throwing the chase vehicle off the road. The storm was then penetrated where wind gusts at or exceeding 100-MPH from the southwest were experienced! The chase vehicle, stopped completely and facing the damaging straight-line winds, had its two left tires lifted off the ground, and was nearly rolled. There was also small hail, extremely heavy rains, and frequent lightning with close hits. The storm was part of a multicell squall line moving eastwards at about 55-MPH, so only one pass was executed on the nearly solid squall line. Damage observed was numerous signs and trees down, even blocking roadways completely. Power out in many places, and roof damage. The storm quickly moved through the populated areas after it was intercepted, causing extensive damage and fatalities. Unfortunately, winds from this squall line killed 40 people in Florida, more than hurricane Andrew in August 1992. Confirmed winds were measured at 109-MPH in the Florida Keys, and over 100-MPH in Bell Glade. In Homestead, a woman was thrown 60 feet to her death by the strong winds outside of her mobile home. Winds and convective cells along this squall line were nearly uniform and referred to as a derecho event. A 1987 Chevy Cavalier Wagon was used to chase the storms. A very strong low-pressure system over the southern Gulf States, with an associated cold front and squall line caused the storms. A very strong jet stream was also present aloft with a strong area of convergence at the surface. Documentation was audio recording and still photos. A tornado watch was also in effect for the entire area until 7 AM.

4). MAR 13, 3:00 PM - Observation of major gale to storm forced winds on the Gulf Of Mexico beaches near Naples, Florida. A major low-pressure area, with hurricane forced winds, was moving across Georgia and Alabama at the time of observation. The cold front passed by and winds prevailed sustained at about 50-MPH from the west and northwest with gusts over 60-MPH. Conditions at Naples Beach were extremely rough surf conditions with 10 to 15 foot waves breaking as far out as you could see. Tides were at least 3 to 5 feet above normal, covering the beach and going over sea walls. Damage was severe coastal flooding and beach erosion on the coast, and downed trees inland. Storm tides in some areas were over 10 feet from this wind event on the Florida West Coast. A 1987 Chevy Cavalier Wagon was used for the land observation. Documentation was still photos.

5). APR 16, 1:00 AM - Penetration of strong thunderstorms near Interstate 595 and Highway 27 in western sections of Broward County, Florida. Frequent lightning, heavy rains, and 35 to 40-MPH winds were experienced with this storm. The storms were caused by a cold front moving through the area. A 1987 Chevy Cavalier Wagon was used to chase the storm.

6). APR 26, 5:00 PM - Penetration of a strong thunderstorm near Tamarac and Coral Springs, Florida near Atlantic Boulevard. Frequent lightning, 35-MPH winds, heavy rain, and ½ inch hail was observed in the storm. A frontal trough and surface heating provided instability for the storms. A 1987 Chevy Cavalier Wagon was used to chase them.

7). JUN 5, 1:45 PM - Interception and direct penetration of a very severe thunderstorm in Boca Raton, Florida north of Palmetto Park Road near Camino Real and Military Trail. The observation was made beneath the UDI (Updraft-Downdraft Interface) of this HP supercell type storm. Near this region 1 to 1½ inch hail (golf ball sized) was observed with rain, frequent lightning with close hits, and 60-MPH winds. A funnel cloud was also observed in a well-developed wall cloud on the northwest side of this storm prior to the core punch. Away from the hail shaft, 60-MPH winds, lightning, and extremely heavy rains were observed. The hail caused damage to the paint of the chase vehicle. The storms were caused by a low-pressure trough, surface heating, cold air aloft, and a moderate jet stream aloft. A 1987 Chevy Cavalier Wagon was used to chase the storms. Documentation was still photos and audio recording.

8). JUN 28, 7:45 PM - Direct penetration of severe thunderstorms west of Royal Palm Beach, Florida along Highway 98. The storm was a multicell storm that contained torrential rains, frequent lightning, and winds gusting to near 70-MPH. The storm was developing near a low-pressure trough in unstable, moist air from daytime surface heating. An outflow boundary from this storm spread southeast and reached Dade County by 10 PM. A 1987 Chevy Cavalier Wagon was used to chase the storms.

9). JUN 28, 9:00 PM - Penetration of a small pulse type severe thunderstorm near Coconut Creek and Deerfield Beach, Florida along Sample Road. The storm contained brief wind gusts to 60-MPH with lightning and heavy rains. The storm was developing along an outflow boundary in unstable air ahead of a low-pressure trough. A 1987 Chevy Cavalier Wagon was used to chase the storm.

10). JUL 22, 6:00 PM - Penetration of a strong thunderstorm near Cooper City, Florida south of Interstate 595 along Pine Island Road. The storm contained 30 to 35-MPH winds, lightning, and heavy rains. A 1987 Chevy Cavalier Wagon was used to chase the storm, which was triggered by surface heating, sea breezes, and an upper trough.

11). JUL 22, 8:00 PM - Observation and indirect penetration of the southeastern side of a severe thunderstorm north and west of Interstate 75 and Interstate 595 in western areas of Broward County, Florida. The storm core was not intercepted, but the gust front and shelf cloud were observed where 60-MPH winds and light rain was encountered. The storm also contained frequent lightning. A 1987 Chevy Cavalier Wagon was used to chase the storm. Surface heating and an upper trough allowed the storm to develop.

12). JUL 23, 3:00 PM - Direct penetration of a severe thunderstorm in Coconut Creek, Florida along Coconut Creek Parkway near Lyons Road. The multicell storm contained 60-MPH winds, torrential rains, frequent lightning, and ¾ inch hail. The storm developed near a sea breeze convergence front that encountered a low-pressure trough. A 1987 Chevy Cavalier Wagon chased the storm. Documentation was still photos.

13). JUL 27, 3:30 PM - Penetration of a strong thunderstorm near Weston and Cooper City, Florida. The strong storm contained frequent lightning, heavy rains, and 40-MPH winds. The storm was encountered just east of Interstate 75. A 1987 Chevy Cavalier Wagon was used to chase the storm, which was caused by surface heating and an upper trough.

14). JUL 28, 6:00 PM - Penetration of strong thunderstorms extending from Boca Raton to Fort Lauderdale, Florida along Interstate 95. The multicell cluster of storms contained very heavy rains and 40-MPH winds. The storms were caused by a weak upper trough and surface heating. A 1987 Chevy Cavalier Wagon was used to chase them.

15). JUL 29, 4:00 PM - Direct penetration to a very strong to severe thunderstorm near NW 31 Avenue and Commercial Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The storm core contained 55 to 60-MPH winds, torrential rains, hail to ½ inch, and very frequent lightning with numerous close hits. A 1987 Chevy Cavalier Wagon was used to chase the multicell storms. An approaching trough of low-pressure and sea breezes triggered the storm. Documentation was audio recording.

16). JUL 30, 6:30 PM - Penetration of a strong to severe thunderstorm along Interstate 595 from the Florida Turnpike to Highway US 1 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The outflow and gust front from a strong, high based storm spread eastward into Fort Lauderdale from the west. The storm approached severe limits with 50 to 60-MPH winds, torrential rains, and frequent lightning just north of Fort Lauderdale International Airport. A severe thunderstorm watch was also in effect for this area until about 7 PM. A 1987 Chevy Cavalier Wagon was used to chase the storms. A low-pressure trough and surface heating produced the storms. Documentation was a camcorder.

17). AUG 11, 2:45 PM - Direct penetration of a severe thunderstorm along Interstate 595 between Highway 27 and Interstate 75 near Weston, Florida. This multicell storm, developing northward from Dade County, contained winds at or over 60-MPH, torrential rains, and frequent lightning. When the downburst of this storm was crossed, a wind changed from 60-MPH southeast winds to 50-MPH northwest winds was experienced while eastbound on Interstate 595. The storms were caused by surface heating and an upper trough. A 1987 Chevy Cavalier Wagon chased them.

18). AUG 12, 2:00 PM - Direct penetration of a severe thunderstorm just west of Interstate 75 between Okeechobee road and Graham Dairy Road near Miami Lakes, Florida. This storm was evolving to a near HP supercell type storm with a rotating wall cloud on its southwest side. No tornadoes were produced by this storm. North and east of this wall cloud region, an area of 70-MPH winds, ½ to ¾ inch hail, frequent lightning, and heavy rain was observed. A 1987 Chevy Cavalier Wagon was used to chase the storm. Documentation was audio recording.

19). AUG 13, 4:30 PM - Direct penetration of severe thunderstorms in Delray Beach, Florida from State Road 7 eastwards to Jog Road along Atlantic Avenue. The storm was produced by a strong gust front that was spawned by a strong thunderstorm west of State Road 7. At one point, the resulting multicell storm cluster had core conditions containing ½ to ¾ inch hail, frequent lightning, torrential rains, and 70 to 75-MPH winds. Powelines and trees down were observed with this storm. A 1987 Chevy Cavalier Wagon chased the storms, caused by a low-pressure trough and surface heating. Documentation was a camcorder.

20). AUG 20, 5:00 PM - Penetration of strong thunderstorms near Oakland Park Boulevard, State Road 7, and NW 31 Avenue in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Three guests were also present during this chase. Frequent lightning, heavy rains, and 40 to 45-MPH winds were observed. A 1987 Chevy Cavalier Wagon was used to chase the storm. A weak upper trough and surface heating produced the storms.

21). AUG 28, 5:30 PM - Penetration of severe thunderstorms near State Road 7 in western sections of Boca Raton, Florida. The storm had a well-developed gust front and shelf cloud. When penetrated, an area of frequent lightning, heavy rains, 50 to 55-MPH winds, and small hail was encountered. The storm was caused by a low-pressure trough and surface heating. A 1987 Chevy Cavalier Wagon chased the storm.

22). SEP 1, 7:00 PM - Observation of the northern portion of an active tropical wave about 2 to 3 miles east of Boynton Beach, Florida. As the convective portion of the tropical wave came ashore, a region of heavy rains, winds gusting to 50-MPH in squalls, and 8 foot seas from the east was encountered. Sea conditions before the wave passage were about 3 to 5 feet with east-northeast winds of 15 to 20-MPH. The strong winds lasted about a half-hour to an hour in a 20-mile wide swath. The strong tropical wave developed near Puerto Rico and crossed the Bahamas before hitting Florida. A 1993 Sea Doo XP watercraft was used to observe the tropical wave.

23). SEP 8, 2:00 PM - Penetration of a strong to severe thunderstorm in Coral Springs, Florida near University Drive and Sample Road. Torrential rains, frequent lightning with close hits, and winds gusting up to 60-MPH were encountered. The storm was caused by an outflow boundary from a weaker strong storm in Boca Raton, a low-pressure trough, and unstable, moist air. A 1987 Chevy Cavalier Wagon chased the storm.

24). OCT 8, 6:30 PM - Penetration of a very strong thunderstorm in Plantation and Sunrise, Florida near University Drive. Very heavy rains, frequent lightning with close hits, and winds over 50-MPH were observed in this storm. The storm caused street flooding. Abundant moist, unstable air and a low-pressure trough produced the storms. A 1987 Chevy Cavalier Wagon chased them.

25). OCT 9, 2:30 PM - Direct penetration of a severe thunderstorm near University drive between Sunrise Boulevard and Oakland Park Boulevard in Lauderhill, Florida. A multicell line of storms, developing near the sea breeze front, began forming in the area after 12:30 PM. The multicell storms remained strong from 2:00 to 4:00 PM. One cell penetrated contained small hail, 65 to 70-MPH wind gusts, heavy rains, and frequent lightning. Tree damage and flooding also occurred with this storm. A 1987 Chevy Cavalier Wagon was used to chase the storms. Surface heating, sea breezes, and a low-pressure trough caused the storms.

26). OCT 30, 2:00 PM - Observation of high seas off Boynton Beach, Florida. The seas were from 8 to 10 feet about 1 mile off Boynton Inlet with a south wind of 30 to 35-MPH. Waves at the inlet were about 5 feet and very choppy. An approaching cold front to the west and strong high-pressure well to the east allowed the strong winds to develop. A 1993 Sea Doo XP watercraft was used to observe the seas.

27). OCT 31, 2:00 AM - Penetration of strong, fast moving thunderstorms near Sunrise Boulevard and Interstate 75 in western sections of Broward County, Florida. The storms were part of a squall line ahead of a strong cold front moving across Florida. Conditions in the strongest cell were 50-MPH winds, lightning, and heavy rains. A strong cold front associated with an early season strong low to the northwest coupled with unstable air produced the squall line and storms. A strong jet stream was also present aloft. A 1987 Chevy Cavalier Wagon chased the storms.

28). DEC 18, 11-3 PM - Observation of very heavy ground swells coming into Palm Beach County, Florida at Lake Worth Inlet and Boynton Inlet. Waves at Lake Worth inlet in West Palm Beach were about 10 to 15 feet high with some larger sets, breaking 400 yards off the beach. Tides here were about 2 feet above normal with beach erosion. At Boynton Inlet, Further south, waves were 10 to 12 feet. Here a small fishing skiff pitch poled over a wave and broke in half, washing up on the beach. Deep water revealed wave periods of 15 seconds with waves 12 feet high. A winter storm with near hurricane forced winds east of Cape Hattaras generated the swell. The seas were observed using a 1993 Sea Doo XP watercraft. Documentation was still photos.

This concludes the 1993 chase season. The summary includes a total of 28 chases or observations. Out of these chases, 16 severe thunderstorms, 9 strong thunderstorms, 1 tropical wave, and 2 coastal observations were involved. Among these chases, a 1987 Chevy Cavalier wagon was used in 25 observations and a 1993 Sea Doo XP watercraft in the 2 coastal observations and the tropical wave. This information was prepared exclusively for the National Weather service and the team of Skywarn storm spotters.

1). JAN 11, 4:30 PM - Observation of near gale forced northeast wind conditions with fully developed seas off Boynton Beach, Florida. Just off the inlet, about a mile or so out, waves in excess of 12 feet were observed, with 30 to 35-MPH northeasterly winds. Weather was rain showers and squalls. A large area of high-pressure to the north and stalled frontal trough to the south allowed the strong winds to prevail. Large breakers, above normal tides, and beach erosion was also observed. A 1993 Sea Doo XP watercraft was used to observe the seas. Documentation was a camcorder wrapped in a waterproof, clear plastic jacket.

2). FEB 26, 4:30 PM - Penetration of the northern edge of a strong to severe thunderstorm near Tamiami Trail and Red Road in Miami, Florida. The storm was a multicell storm and contained 50-MPH winds, ½ to ¾ inch hail, heavy rains, and frequent lightning. This storm also caused some flooding. A 1987 Chevy Cavalier Wagon was used to chase the storms. The storms were caused by a stalled frontal system near the area and surface heating.

3). MAR 2, 3:00 PM - Penetration of an active squall line and associated severe thunderstorms moving across central Broward County, Florida near Interstate 595. The storm contained some severe thunderstorm cells with 60-MPH winds and very heavy rains. A sudden shift of wind from southwest to northwest also was noted with the passage of the squall line. Abundant moisture and a strong cold front allowed the storms to develop. A 1987 Chevy Cavalier Wagon was used to chase the storms. A tornado watch was also in effect for the area until 4PM.

4). APR 24, 3:00 PM - Direct penetration of a severe thunderstorm in Hollywood, Florida just northwest of Hollywood Boulevard and Interstate 95. The core of this multicell storm contained ¾ inch hail, 70-MPH wind gusts, torrential rains, and frequent lightning. A guest, Jose Chong, accompanied this chase. Some downed signs were noted from the strong winds. A 1994 Dodge Dakota Pickup was used to chase the storms. A low-pressure trough, stalled frontal system, and outflow boundary produced the storms.

5). MAY 18, 5:00 PM - Indirect penetration of a strong to severe thunderstorm moving southeastwards over Broward County, Florida near Broward Boulevard and University Drive. During the indirect penetration, 50-MPH winds, heavy rains, and lightning was encountered. The storm continued developing southward, into Dade County, where a funnel cloud was spawned. The funnel cloud was not observed. This chase was aborted due to severe traffic problems on most major roads. A 1994 Dodge Dakota Pickup was used to chase the storm, caused by a low-pressure trough and weak cold front.

6). MAY 19, 4:30 PM - Direct penetration of a severe thunderstorm along Hillsboro Boulevard in Deerfield Beach, Florida between Lyons Road and State Road 7. This very intense multicell type severe storm rapidly developed and moved east over the area. Conditions encountered were winds gusting over 70-MPH, ½ inch hail, frequent lightning, and torrential rains. The storm caused some wind damage in the area. A funnel cloud was also produced by this storm but was not observed. A weak cold front and broad low-pressure area coupled with surface heating produced the storms. A 1994 Dodge Dakota Pickup chased the storm. Documentation was a camcorder. A severe thunderstorm watch was also in effect for the area until 5PM.

7). JUN 4, 3:30 PM - Penetration of a strong thunderstorm in North Lauderdale, Florida near Rock Island Road and Southgate Boulevard. Frequent lightning, torrential rains, and 50-MPH winds were encountered. A low-pressure trough and surface heating produced the storms. A 1994 Dodge Dakota Pickup was used to chase them.

8). JUN 5, 6:00 PM - Observation of a waterspout over the near shore waters of Delray Beach, Florida. A large towering cumulus cloud built up just east of the observation site, Lake Ida Park in Delray Beach. A brief waterspout was produced in the cloud base on the west side of this cloud. A 1994 Dodge Dakota Pickup was used to observe the waterspout. Moist, unstable air allowed development of the waterspout. Documentation was still photos.

9). JUN 10, 6:30 PM - Direct penetration of a large severe thunderstorm near Highway 27 and Interstate 595 along Hollywood Boulevard in western sections of Broward County, Florida. The storm, a multicell storm which evolved to a HP supercell, lasted 2 ½ hours as it slowly moved southeastwards until offshore of Miami. During development and evolution, a large wall cloud and inflow area was observed on the west side of the storm. The storm produced small funnel clouds, and contained small hail, torrential rains, 60-MPH winds, and frequent lightning with close hits in its core. Flooding and trees down were also observed with this storm. The storm was caused by surface heating and a low-pressure trough. A moderate cap allowed the storms to develop this late in the day. A 1994 Dodge Dakota Pickup was used to chase the storms. Documentation was still photos.

10). JUN 11, 5:30 PM - Direct penetration of a rather small but strong thunderstorm in the Everglades along Highway 27 about 5 miles north of Interstate 595. This pulse type storm developed along the sea breeze front and contained a small, brief area of 50-MPH winds and torrential rains. Some trees were knocked down along the side of the highway from this storm. The storm was caused by sea breeze activity. A 1994 Dodge Dakota Pickup chased the storm. Documentation was still photos.

11). JUN 18, 5:00 PM - Direct penetration of a severe thunderstorm near State Road 7 and Glades Road in Boca Raton, Florida. The storm was part of a multicell line of storms. Winds in the storm gusted to 60-MPH with torrential rains and frequent lightning with close hits. A 1994 Dodge Dakota Pickup chased the storms, caused by a low-pressure trough and surface heating. Documentation was a camcorder.

12). JUN 22, 4:30 PM - Direct penetration of a severe thunderstorm near Interstate 595 and University Drive in Davie, Florida. The storm was a multicell storm containing winds over 60-MPH, ¾ inch hail, torrential rains, and frequent lightning with close hits. The storm was part of a line of thunderstorms responsible for signs and trees down, power outages, and a small brush fire observed sparked by a lightning strike. The storm was caused by a low-pressure area aloft and surface heating. A 1994 Dodge Dakota Pickup chased the storms. Documentation was a camcorder.

13). JUL 21, 7:30 PM - Observation of a spectacular tornado touchdown in western sections of Palm Beach County, Florida. A large wall cloud was observed on the southwest side of an LP supercell storm, extremely rare in Florida. A tornado came out of the wall cloud and touched down. Two other separate tornadoes, flanking south of the first one, also touched down, the southernmost one being the smallest. Three tornadoes remained on the ground for nearly 3 minutes, the first one becoming almost as wide as half its height. The event lasted for about 10 to 15 minutes, from first funnel to tornado rope out and dissipation. When all three tornadoes were on the ground, the storm updraft tower took on a distinct corkscrew (Barber pole) appearance, yet only little rain and lightning were observed. The storm remained with a slight rotation long after the tornadoes dissipated. The storm was observed from Lake Ida Park in Delray Beach, about 10 or 15 miles to the east of the storm. Fortunately, the tornadoes touched down in an unpopulated area. A 1994 Dodge Dakota Pickup was used to observe the storm, caused by surface heating and a low-pressure trough.

14). JUL 25, 2:00 PM - Direct penetration of a severe thunderstorm near Flamingo Road and Pembroke Avenue in Permbroke Pines, Florida. The multicell storm contained 60-MPH winds, frequent lightning with close hits, torrential rains, and ½ inch hail. Some residential areas had 2 feet of standing water from this storm. Some power was knocked out in some areas. A low-pressure trough and surface heating produced the storms. A 1994 Dodge Dakota Pickup was used to chase them. Documentation was a camcorder.

15). JUL 29, 7:30 PM - Indirect penetration of the eastern side of a strong to severe thunderstorm along Interstate 75 near Miramar, Florida. The storm, although not directly intercepted, still produced 50-MPH winds, small hail, heavy rains, and frequent lightning. A 1994 Dodge Dakota Pickup chased the storms. A low-pressure trough and outflow boundary produced the storms in moist, unstable air.

16). AUG 5, 5:00 PM - Penetration of a strong to severe storm in the Everglades along Interstate 595 west of Highway 27 and east of the Seminole Indian Reservation. The storm was part of a multicell cluster of thunderstorms. On the eastern edge of this storm, a funnel cloud was observed. When the storm was penetrated, 50-MPH winds, torrential rains, and lightning was found. The storm was caused by a trough of low-pressure and surface heating. Documentation was still photos. A 1994 Dodge Dakota Pickup chased the storm.

17). AUG 6, 5:30 PM - Direct penetration of a severe thunderstorm near Opa Locka, Florida just south of the Palmetto Expressway. The storm contained frequent lightning with close hits, torrential rains, and wind gusts up to 60-MPH. The storm was produced by sea breeze activity and a weak trough of low-pressure. A 1994 Dodge Dakota Pickup was used to chase the storm. Documentation was a camcorder.

18). AUG 7, 7:00 PM - Direct penetration of a severe thunderstorm in southeastern Broward County, Florida along Highway US 1