Exploring Spatial Patterns of Virginia Tornadoes Using Kernel Density and Space-Time Cube Analysis (1960–2019)

This study evaluates the spatial-temporal patterns in Virginia tornadoes using National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center’s Severe GIS (SVRGIS) database. In addition to descriptive statistics, analysis employs Kernel Density Estimation for spatial pattern and space-time cubes visualize spatiotemporal frequency of potential trends. Most 726 between 1960–2019 occurred Eastern Virginia, along Piedmont Coastal Plain. Consistent with other literature, both number tornado days have increased Virginia. While 80% during warm season, did occur each month including two deadly January February. Over 60-year period, a total 28 people were killed Commonwealth. activity took place afternoon early evening hours drawing attention temporal variability risk vulnerability. Spatial results identify significant, non-random clusters increasing frequency. this improves weather-related literacy addresses need Commonwealth, more research is necessary further evaluate synoptic mesoscale mechanisms tornadoes.