Aspects of Tornado Climatology in Alabama and Florida's Panhandle, 1962-1986

This study examines spatial and seasonal aspects of the tornado climatology of Alabama and the Florida Panhandle. An emphasis is placed on latitudinal patterns of tornado frequency, intensity, and tornado-related casualties. Variables examined include geographic coordinates, Fujita intensity ratings, tornado path length and width, and tornado-related casualties for 866 tornadoes. Mapped patterns show that the area of highest tornado frequency is associated with low mean Fujita values and low frequencies of tornado-caused deaths and injuries. This area is centered on Pensacola Bay along the Gulf coast where air-mass thunderstorm-spawned tornadoes are common. A second node of maximum tornado frequency is located in north-central Alabama and has significantly larger mean Fujita values and higher casualty frequencies. Tornadoes in this area are more concentrated during spring when frontal activity is maximized.