Definitions for "Bow Echo"
Keywords:  archer, echo, tornado, downburst, radar
a bow-shaped radar reflectivity pattern that is often accompanied by downbursts at the apex of the bulge
A radar echo that is linear but bent outward in a bow shape. Damaging straight-line winds often occur near the "crest" or center of a bow echo. Areas of circulation also can develop at either end of a bow echo, which sometimes can lead to tornado formation - especially in the left (usually northern) end, where the circulation shows cyclonic rotation.
A rapidly moving crescent shaped echo on a radar which is convex in the direction of motion. It is associated with strong, straight-line winds. Areas of circulation also can develop at either end of a bow echo, which sometimes can lead to tornado formation - especially in the left (usually northern) end, where the circulation exhibits cyclonic rotation. See also Line Echo Wave Pattern (LEWP).