Chase Log: April 11th, 2001

Click on any of the SPC products below (Convective Outlooks, Watches, or MCDs) to see the SPC's "Severe Thunderstorm Events" page pertaining to this event.

MAP

Total Distance: 500 miles
Target Area: Iowa Falls, IA
Chase Area: Waterloo to LaPorte City, IA
Maximum SPC Risk category: High
Watches: PDS Tornado Watches 134 and 136, Tornado Watches 133 and 137
Mesoscale Discussions (MCDs): 1115, 1117, 1118, 1119, 1124, 1136, and 1137

I wasn't really planning on chasing this day, seeing how it was a school day. I checked the SPC around 10a to see what was going on when I read the mesoscale discussion regarding outlook upgrade to high. I printed off the latest model output and realized that it was going to be a big day (or the potential was there at least). So, after lunch, I left school, heading for central/northern IA. I headed straight south on I-35 into northern IA. PDS watches were post from I-35 and eastward. NWR was going off left and right with warnings as I headed east towards Waterloo.

A supercell was approaching from the southwest as I headed southward from Waterloo. I made it through La Porte City (I think that was the town), after which time I quickly noticed a funnel dropping from the supercell. So, I turned around quickly, and went east through the town. There was some minor damage east of town, but I didn't hit the 'record' button correctly as it is not on my tape. I spent the rest of the day playing catch-up, before giving up and heading back home.