Abstract : A proposed four-dimensional algorithm for automated detection of mesocyclones employs resolution-dependent thresholds of rotational velocity and shear. This algorithm incorporates complementary features of earlier techniques suggested by Hennington and Burgess and by Forsyth, Bjerkaas and Petrocchi. Classification of mesocyclones by calculation of total rotational kinetic energy is proposed as a possible means for early assessment of the destructive energy of the resultant tornado. (Author)