Chase Log: June 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: 400 miles
Target Area: New Ulm, MN
Chase Area: BUST
Maximum SPC Risk category: High
Watches: PDS Tornado Watch 397, Tornado Watches 396 and 400, Severe Watches 394 and 401
Mesoscale Discussions (MCDs): 1115, 1117, 1118, 1119, 1124, 1136, and 1137

A relatively decent tornado outbreak expected with risk of a couple strong tornadoes. Matt and I left by mid-morning, aiming around the Mankato / New Ulm area. We staked at a spot on a hill just north of New Ulm, watching the situation. I was slightly concerned about the cap for the day, as weather radio was talking about relatively high CIN per ABR and other 18z soundings. However, nearly full insolation was taking place as the warm front moved northward. We decided to head a little southward to more south of New Ulm. My brother called and told us that the new Day 1 outlook had actually been upgraded to high! Woohoo! We were hearing word about a supercell that was tracking east-southeast from close to Wilmar. Needing a quick decision, we decided not to chase that supercell and to stick with our original target area, supported by NWS and SPC discussions. By mid-afternoon, a PDS Tornado Watch was issued... To make a long story short, the cap held in southern MN all day and it was a complete cap-bust. I did get a call from my girlfriend who was making me aware that the monster supercell was right in their area. Traveled all that way and the big supercell of the day crossed right near my home. Darn. The cap did break into Wisconsin and a derecho traversed the state there.