Tornado Drones Could Save Lives

<b> by Andrew Caringi</b>

Scientists in Oklahoma are now experimenting with commercial drones to help better predict tornadoes. With current technology only predicting tornadoes an average of 14 minutes beforehand, researchers hope that drones will usher in better innovation in meteorology.

To build the new technology, scientists used drones that were built to sustain flight during gusty winds or inclement weather and then upgraded them with sensing equipment. The drones were then launched before a forecasted storm to capture data in Earth’s lower atmosphere.

The new data collected from these drones could increase the warning time by up to one hour, which could make evacuations safer and more effective. Oklahoma receives an average of 52 twisters a year and scientists hope this innovation will not only enhance their understanding of tornado formation, but will save lives.

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