Tornadoes over complex terrain: an analysis of the 28th August 1999 tornadic event in eastern Spain

Abstract

On 28 August 1999, a tornadic storm developed during the afternoon over the Gudar range, near the border between Teruel and Castellón provinces (Sistema Ibérico, eastern Spain). The area has a characteristic complex terrain with peaks up to 2000 m. At least one tornado developed, which attained F3 intensity, producing severe damage in the forest that covers the mountains. The region is well known as a summer convective storm nest and, not surprisingly, a range in the Sistema Iberico is called Sierra del Rayo (lightning range).