Tornadoes
Articles tagged with Tornadoes
AMS science preview: AI forecast limits, unpredictable hurricanes, simplified heat index
New research from the American Meteorological Society explores AI forecasting limits, the impact of climate change on hurricane trends, and simplifies the heat index. The studies find that machine learning can outperform numerical physics-based models in certain conditions, but not universally.
AMS Science Preview: Mississippi River, ocean carbon storage, gender and floods
Researchers investigated the Mississippi River's hydrological trends, ocean carbon storage, and gender dynamics in flood mortality. A study found that precipitation increases, but soil moisture decreases, while high-resolution models reveal stronger Southern Ocean carbon absorption. Additionally, data showed men are overrepresented in ...
The giant fire tornado that could save our oceans
Researchers have developed a new method for cleaning oil spills using massive fire whirls, which can burn through crude oil nearly twice as fast as in-situ fire pools. The results show that fire whirls produce 40% less soot and consume up to 95% of the fuel, leaving fewer harmful particles behind.
AMS Science Preview: Hurricane slowdown, school snow days
A new study finds that U.S. tornado activity is shifting southeastward due to the relationship between extratropical cyclones and low-pressure systems. Additionally, global warming has led to a fourfold increase in tropical cyclone rapid slowdown events in coastal areas.
Tornado-forecast system can increase warning lead times, study finds
Researchers at the University of Kansas have developed a tornado-forecast system called Warn-on-Forecast System (WoFS) that can predict tornado formation up to an hour before it occurs. The system uses high-resolution simulations and gauges uncertainties, providing guidance on severe weather threats.
Flood risks in delta cities are increasing, study finds
Research shows that flooding in delta cities like Shanghai can expand by up to 80% and be much deeper by 2100 due to extreme climate events, sea-level rise and land subsidence. A major adaptation effort is required to raise defences and construct mobile flood barriers.
AMS Science Preview: Railways and cyclones; pinned clouds; weather warnings in wartime
Researchers investigate how adjacent cities exacerbate each other's heat island effects. A study also highlights the need for improved hindcasting infrastructure in climate science. Additionally, a campaign monitors pinned clouds over industrial sources of heat and finds that trees are more reliable against heat stress than buildings.
Trailblazing Young Scientists honored with $250,000 prizes at Blavatnik National Awards Gala
Three young scientists received top honors at the 2025 Blavatnik National Awards for Young Scientists, each receiving a $250,000 prize for their innovative work on critical global issues. The awards recognize exceptional scientific achievement and innovation by U.S.-based researchers under 42 years old.
Horizontal vortex tubes have a significant impact on tornado development
Horizontal vortex tubes significantly influence tornado genesis and development in typhoon periphery regions. The WRF model simulation shows the role of these tubes in tornado formation, enabling better forecasts for South China.
AMS science preview: New lightning record, fewer hurricanes, fire forecasts
Recent research from American Meteorological Society journals predicts a new record for lightning and a decrease in hurricane frequency. Additionally, fire forecasts have been updated to better manage water resources in Colorado's Gunnison River Basin.
Civil defense units must invest in professionalization and own resources to face climate risks
A study proposes five action fronts for civil defense units to increase their organizational capacity, including professionalization and resource allocation. Municipalities face challenges such as monitoring urban expansion, lack of financial resources, and social participation.
AMS science preview: Fire weather, bumpy hurricane flights, climate extremes and protests
Recent research highlights increased fire activity in the western US, with wildfires becoming less prone to calming down at night. Meanwhile, extreme turbulence on hurricane flights has led to a new 'bumpiness' metric. Climate extremes are also evident in shifting energy demands for heating and cooling in Chinese megacities.
Weather emergencies affect older adults’ views on climate and health
A new poll found that nearly 3/4 of older Americans have experienced at least one extreme weather event, increasing their concern about climate change's effects on their health. Those who lived through such events are more likely to express worry about the impact on themselves and future generations.
AMS Science Preview: Wind and wildfire, EF5s, “sitting ducks”
Research highlights the impact of wind on wildfire growth, with areas in the US Southeast vulnerable to extreme heat and precipitation events. Meanwhile, a study suggests the 'drought' of EF5 tornadoes may be due to stricter ratings rather than changes in tornadoes.
Methods enhance tornado damage surveys, reducing uncertainties in records
Researchers have introduced cutting-edge approaches to improve tornado record-keeping, including social media trawling, spaceborne photography, and UAV-based surveys. These methods aim to reduce uncertainties in tornado counts and refine intensity estimations, making global damage surveys more accurate, comprehensive, and timely.
AMS Science Preview: Tall hurricanes, snow and wildfire
Early online research reveals associations between snowmelt timing, wildfires in Alaska, and rapidly intensifying tropical cyclones. The impact of climate patterns on extreme weather events is a growing concern.
AMS 2025 meeting promotes atmospheric science for a “thriving planet”
The 105th Annual Meeting of the American Meteorological Society will address key issues in weather, water, and climate. The meeting features a Presidential Forum on physical, social, cultural, and economic impacts of climate change, with experts from the region of the Mississippi River Delta.
AMS Science Preview: Turbulence & thunderstorms, heat stress, future derechos
New studies reveal significant increases in Atlantic hurricane seasons and derecho events, while also highlighting the dangers of turbulence near thunderstorms and extreme heat stress. Climate models predict a rise in precipitation extremes across US cities, particularly during winter and spring.
Researchers to use deep learning to understand tornadoes
A team of OU scientists, led by Nathan Snook, will use deep learning techniques to analyze numerical simulations of tornadoes. The goal is to improve tornado forecasting by identifying key factors that influence their formation.
Study explores what motivates people to watch footage of disasters and extreme weather
Researchers analyzed live-streams of hurricanes and storms, finding that people in affected areas used streams to discuss official risk advice and show support to impacted regions. The study highlights the importance of understanding how new technologies influence hazard risk perception and community engagement.
New twists on tornadoes: Earth scientist studies why U.S. has so many tornadoes
A study by Dan Chavas and his team found that the rough texture of the land surface in South America may prevent tornadoes from forming, while a smoother ocean surface in North America enhances their frequency. This challenges established wisdom about the role of the Gulf of Mexico in tornado formation.
Public more confident connecting increasing heat, wildfires with climate change than other extreme weather events, study finds
A recent study by Oregon State University found that US adults are fairly confident in linking wildfires and heat to climate change, but less so for hurricanes, flooding, or tornadoes. The survey also revealed significant differences in responses based on politics, personal experience, and demographics.
AMS Science Preview: Sea-ice loss may accelerate; tornadoes and flying cars
Arctic sea ice is expected to lose mass in the coming decade due to dominant natural climate patterns. Exposure to extreme temperatures, particularly heat, may lead to adverse birth outcomes in China. Researchers also found that ocean warming intensifies typhoons, but moderation comes from atmospheric temperature and humidity changes.
Take cover! Survey shows tornado warnings widely misunderstood
A recent study by University of Nebraska-Lincoln professor Cory Armstrong found that roughly 50% of those surveyed in the mid-south region couldn't accurately define a tornado warning. Meanwhile, 35% correctly identified a warning as a tornado being sighted or indicated on weather radar.
AMS Science Preview: Hawaiian climates; chronic pain; lightning-caused wildfires
A new study establishes official climate divisions in Hawaii, improving climate research and forecasting. Chronic pain sufferers who spend time outdoors experience stronger weather-based effects, while lightning-initiated wildfires are responsible for more than half the acres burned in the contiguous United States.
AMS Science Preview: “Outdoor days,” lightning, air pollution
A new study finds that extreme tropical cyclone rainfall is increasing across the continental US, while climate warming restricts 'outdoor days' for people living in developing countries. Additionally, air pollution increases mortality risks from heat, especially when combined with other factors like wildfires and reduced aerosols.
Ready for the storm: FAMU-FSU researchers analyze infrastructure, demographics to see where tornadoes are most disruptive
Researchers used GIS software to analyze data on tornado frequency, transportation infrastructure, and household income to determine where populations are likely to be more resilient. The study's findings can help local governments pinpoint regions with vulnerable communities and fragile transportation networks.
Researchers design a national testing facility to simulate tornadoes, downbursts and gusts; Experiments will help them engineer buildings that can stand up to extreme winds
Researchers are designing a national testing facility to simulate tornadoes, downbursts, and gusts. The NEWRITE project aims to engineer buildings that can withstand extreme winds and reduce structural damage.
Groundbreaking mathematical proof: new insights into typhoon dynamics unveiled
A mathematical breakthrough provides new insights into typhoon dynamics, enabling more accurate predictions and advancements in weather forecasting. The study confirms the stability of specific vortex structures, which can be encountered in real-world fluid flows.
CSU machine learning model helps forecasters improve confidence in storm prediction
A machine learning model developed by Colorado State University researchers has been tested with forecasters at the Storm Prediction Center to improve medium-range severe weather forecasts. The tool provides a probabilistic measure of hazardous weather events, such as tornadoes and hail, four to eight days in advance.
Influence of US weather conditions on tornado trends since 1980 explored by new model
A new model investigates long-term temporal trends in synoptic-scale weather conditions favoring significant tornado occurrence over the central United States. The study suggests that specific weather patterns have contributed to increased tornado activity in this region.
Funding to boost coastal community resilience
A new project aims to explore the tension between managing hurricane risk and achieving equity and economic prosperity in coastal communities. Researchers will develop methods to model long-term hurricane hazards and create a framework for designing policy interventions.
Physicists develop new type of camera to image quantum vortices for the first time
Researchers at Lancaster University have created a camera-like device that captures images of mini whirlpools in quantum liquids for the first time. The camera uses particle-like disturbances to take pictures of collections of vortices, which are unpredictable and form in specific patterns above a vibrating wire.
Scientists hone long-range forecasting of US tornadoes, hail
Scientists identified three atmospheric phenomena orientations near the equator that increase US severe weather event probabilities three to four weeks later. Using machine learning, they found correlations between MJO fluctuations and U.S. severe weather weeks after the event.
Optical vortex crystals for photonic simulations of complex systems
Scientists at IIT realized coupled light vortices forming an ordered structure, a light crystal. They developed metasurfaces to control laser beams and created 100 light vortices with tunable topology, enabling new properties for optical communications and simulations of complex systems.
Engineers assess structural damage and resilience after Kentucky tornado
Engineers from Penn State assessed structural damage and resilience in Mayfield, Kentucky, after the December 2021 Midwest Tornado series. They collected data through door-to-door assessments, drone evaluations, and photographs to understand community recovery and design more resilient structures.
Using overpasses as shelter from tornado?
Researchers from the University of Rhode Island studied the interaction between tornado-strength winds and highway overpasses, finding no evidence of wind acceleration under an overpass. The study, published in Physics of Fluids, suggests that using an overpass as a shelter during a tornado may not be safer than other options.
A new proposed scheme towards seamless detection of cutoff lows and preexisting troughs
A new proposed scheme has been developed to seamlessly detect cutoff lows and preexisting troughs in a consistent and integrated manner. The scheme uses an automated numerical approach to extract the locations, intensities, and sizes of these features from snapshot upper tropospheric weather map data.
Scientists solve mystery of icy plumes that may foretell deadly supercell storms
Researchers at Stanford University have discovered the physical mechanism behind icy plumes that precede severe thunderstorms and potentially deadly tornadoes. The study reveals a hydraulic jump phenomenon triggered by fluid obstacles in the atmosphere, leading to rapid water vapor injection into the stratosphere.
Would we still have severe thunderstorms over North America if the Gulf of Mexico were filled in with land?
A Purdue University study suggests that the eastern half of the US is a hotspot for severe thunderstorms due to high terrain, while the Gulf of Mexico plays a relatively weak role. Removing the Gulf would shift storm patterns eastward into Illinois and reduce them over southern Texas.
Tornado intensity and size
A study analyzing tornado wind speed and size data from 120 events found that stronger and wider tornadoes exist than damage-based estimates indicated. The median peak wind speeds were around 60 m/s, sufficient for Enhanced Fujita scale ratings of 2-3.
Rating tornado warnings charts a path to improve forecasts
A new method to rate tornado warning skill improves understanding of forecast challenges, particularly nighttime and summer twisters. The study finds that these events are harder to predict due to unfavorable conditions and fewer eyewitness reports.
Outside Oz, GLINDA reports on tornado acoustics
A new system called GLINDA allows researchers to capture the unique sound signature of a tornado, improving understanding of its behavior and potential impact on false alarm rates. By measuring infrasound at close range, scientists can gain valuable insights into tornado production and reduce the number of deaths caused by these deadly...
Flow physics could help forecasters predict extreme events
Scientists are studying the infrasound signatures of tornadoes to develop more accurate prediction and warning systems. Researchers have found that these vibrations can travel long distances quickly and through different media, potentially allowing for early detection of tornadoes from far away.
Predicting tornadoes on UK cold fronts for the first time
Researchers at the University of Leeds and the Met Office have developed a predictive tool to identify regions at increased risk of tornadoes on UK cold fronts. The tool uses wind fields ahead and behind the cold front to compute a percentage probability that tornadoes will occur.
Are climate scientists being too cautious when linking extreme weather to climate change?
Researchers argue that current approaches to attributing extreme weather events to global warming focus too much on raising the threshold for false alarms, neglecting the importance of accurate warnings. By prioritizing probability of detection, climate scientists can strike a better balance between caution and timely warning.
Knowledge of severe storm patterns may improve tornado warnings
Researchers found a statistically significant difference in storm structure between those producing tornadoes and non-tornadic supercells, which could lead to more accurate warnings. The study suggests using polarimetric radar data to identify the orientation of raindrop shapes, potentially improving tornado warning times.
NASA observes rainfall from tornado-spawning storms in the southern US
NASA analyzed severe storms in the southern US, creating an animation of powerful thunderstorms that brought heavy rainfall and spawned destructive tornadoes. The analysis used NASA's Integrated Multi-satellitE Retrievals for GPM (IMERG) algorithm to estimate near-realtime precipitation rates.
Low-frequency sound may predict tornado formation
Researchers from Oklahoma State University and University of Nebraska-Lincoln have discovered that low-frequency sounds are emitted before tornado formation. These infrasound signals can be detected hours or even days in advance, providing potential warnings for severe weather events.
New tornado casualty analysis will improve future predictions
Tyler Fricker's study analyzed nationwide tornado casualty data to identify high-risk regions and community-level factors influencing casualties. The results suggest that regional susceptibility to high-casualty events is more complex than previously thought, with factors beyond mobile home ownership and low income contributing to high...
Study: Many Tennesseans are misinformed about tornado protection
A study found that many Tennesseans are misinformed about tornado protection, with misconceptions common across the state. Researchers recommend taking tornado warnings seriously and seeking shelter in sturdy buildings or mobile homes immediately upon receiving an alert.
When natural disasters strike, men and women respond differently
A University of Colorado Boulder study found that women tend to take cover during emergencies and prepare for evacuation but often struggle to convince men to do so. Women are also relegated to traditional roles such as homemaker after disasters, while men focus on finances and lead community efforts.
Scientists forecasted late May tornado outbreak nearly 4 weeks in advance
A team of scientists at Northern Illinois University successfully forecasted the nation's extensive tornado outbreak in late May 2019, three to four weeks before it occurred. The prediction used historical weather-pattern records and methodologies to predict severe weather across the continental United States with extended lead times.
'Tornado Alley' twisters may be easier to predict in April than in May
April tornadoes influenced by global climate patterns, while May events more strongly linked to internal atmospheric processes. Shifting weather patterns within seasons affect tornado frequencies, suggesting a key factor in climate change impact studies.
Ocean temperatures turbocharge April tornadoes over Great Plains region
New research finds that unusual ocean temperatures in the tropical Pacific and Atlantic can increase April tornado occurrences over the Great Plains. Climate researchers discovered a link between ocean temperatures and atmospheric conditions that enhance thunderstorms and tornado-favorable environments.
Tornadoes, windstorms pave way for lasting plant invasions
A new University of Illinois study found that large blowdown areas in southern Illinois forests are more heavily invaded and slower to recover than smaller areas. Invasive species cover decreased over time, but the most common invaders were already present in the system, suggesting a need for targeted management focus.
In disasters, Twitter influencers get out-tweeted
Research on Twitter use during natural disasters highlights the importance of targeting average users with meaningful networks to spread life-saving information. Average Twitter users with small local networks increase their activity more than those with larger networks in disaster situations.
Forecasters may be looking in wrong place when predicting tornadoes, Ohio research shows
Researchers at Ohio University have found that tornadoes form from the ground up, contrary to long-held theories. This discovery has significant implications for tornado forecasting and warning systems.
To image leaky atmosphere, NASA rocket team heads north
The VISIONS-2 mission aims to map oxygen outflow from aurora using a unique imaging technique, providing detailed insights into the process. Scientists suspect that oxygen is being energized by auroras, but the exact mechanisms are still unclear, with the day and night sides displaying distinct differences.