Weather Dictionary / Glossary of Terms

Penetrating Top


   Weather TermDescription / Definition
   Penetrating Top Same as Overshooting Top; a dome-like protrusion above a thunderstorm anvil, representing a very strong updraft and hence a higher potential for severe weather with that storm. A persistent and/or large overshooting top (anvil dome) often is present on a supercell. A short-lived overshooting top, or one that forms and dissipates in cycles, may indicate the presence of a pulse storm.


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Data courtesy of NOAA - National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration