Yes, the entire Integrated Warning System (for which you, as the warning forecaster on duty, were probably the key link) worked as it should. I cannot even fathom the loss of life had you not correctly recognized the potential leftward change in direction as part of the polygonal extrapolation of storm motion, hence projecting a path probability that included the town…and by extension, warning them. A nocturnal, violent tornado engulfing a town like this has some parallels from the 1920s-1950s which were absolutely horrific in terms of total casualties (loss of life + injuries), so the difference can be roughly conceived.

You’re very astute to point out that it was a coordinated effort of your office team, as well as SPC (Steve Corfidi’s excellent, 3+ hour lead time tornado watch), the local EM (good siren management that resulted in those sounding so far in advance, right after the warning), media broadcasters conveying the warning, and many others in the chain. DDC suffered no software or equipment breakdowns to hamper the process either — a testament to the electronics support folks as well. And Larry (your MIC) has fostered an atmosphere there that encourages science, learning and understanding — a large amount of which comes from directly observing the atmosphere in action. This is why there are several storm chasing meteorologists on staff there (including the recently retired Jim Johnson).

Still, if your warning hadn’t been good as it was, which was a direct result of your severe weather expertise (gained in no small part from storm observing!) and situational awareness, that link in the warning system would have broken and then the whole chain fails Greensburg. Great job. Absolutely splendid performance, by you in particular and by everyone else up and down the line in the Integrated Warning System.

===== Roger =====

Now, I am about to seem a huge dickhead. You thank the spotters and chasers in your blog and on your site, but not a single time on NATIONAL television did you mention us. How could you have actually known about the large destructive tornado with US, the ground truth? You may not understand my anger, but there was so much praise going to you, and as you deserve praise for sure, you didn’t mention that there are people driving around within 5 miles of this beast that are out there for one reason only. To tell you what the hell is happening at ground level. I hope you don’t take this as a hatefull message. It’s just disappointing to hear the term hero thrown at you without so much as a thank you.

Now all of you can proceed to hating on me.

DK

I want to express how proud I am that a fellow CFDG’er performed such an incredible duty, and while in the act, saved many, many lives. Mike, not only has this brought great credibility to our CFDG community, but it also adds a desperately needed view of professionalism and humane, caring attitude to the public’s image of the storm chaser.

Thank you Mike!

Chuck Robertson

Seriously, congratulations on a job well done, and, especially, for seeing to it that the entire DDC team gets the credit they deserve. Very impressive!

Rock Chalk Jayhawk!

–Ray M.

Sincerely,
John Moser

Have never had a chance to meet you, but congrats on a job well done by both you and the office staff. I can only imagine the utter sinking feeling in your gut as the circulation passed over Greensburg. You guys sounded pretty busy on the NAWAS that night. By the way, Rock Chalk I’m a Jayhawk, too!! Senior in Atmo at KU this year, and the last of the lowly HMT’s at the Topeka office. Mr. Hall sends his kudos on a job well done! Lastly, make sure you guys get that darn RTP out on time!! Your tornado pass is about used up!! Maybe I’ll see you out there someday…or who knows, maybe you’ll end up in TOP!