Radar
Bow Echo Radar Explained: Why Curved Storm Lines Can Mean Damaging Wind
What a bow echo looks like on radar, why it forms, and why it can signal widespread damaging wind in a squall line or derecho setup.
Quick answer: A bow echo is a curved radar signature where part of a storm line surges forward, often because strong winds are pushing outward.
What it looks like
On radar, a bow echo can resemble an archer bow or bulging segment of a line.
The strongest wind threat is often near the bow apex and along embedded surges.
Why it matters
Bow echoes can produce damaging straight-line winds and sometimes brief embedded tornadoes.
They may move quickly, leaving little time between warning and impact.
Safety
If a severe thunderstorm warning mentions destructive wind or a bowing line, move indoors and away from windows.
Do not wait for a tornado warning to take wind seriously.