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Dr. Frederick P. Ostby, director of the National Severe Storms Forecast Center, says that only about half of all tornadoes can be detected in time to issue a tornado watch. The tornado warning system is not perfect, but is gradually being improved.

In the coming years, hundreds of automated weather evaluators will be installed around remote Western areas. Research is also being conducted on mesocyclones, tornadoes, and weather systems. Techniques are being tested to weaken the powerful storms. One tries seeding the mesocyclones with dry ice to prevent tornado formation. The idea is to force heavy rainfall from the systems, thus reducing the storm’s strength.

Ultimately, if we all keep aware and informed about tornadoes, it will be easier to protect and prepare against these awesome twisters.

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