Drones in Severe Weather Research: Unveiling the Sky’s Hidden Secrets

As severe weather season arrives, researchers in our state are taking advantage of the opportunity to study the skies. A team of scientists from NOAA and the University of Oklahoma is using drones to gain a better understanding of how severe weather forms.

Their base of operations is located in a large field in Purcell, where they regularly launch a 3D-printed drone known as “the shark.” Equipped with sensors similar to those found in weather balloons, the drones offer more precise data collection than traditional balloon technology. Unlike balloons that drift with the wind and are often lost upon launch, drones are able to fight against the wind and navigate through the sky during severe weather events.

Research engineer Dr. Tony Segales highlighted the advantages of using drones for data collection, emphasizing their ability to obtain a more accurate column of air data. The research team, who were present during the deadly Rolling Fork tornado outbreak in Mississippi last year, experienced success in improving forecast accuracy through their data collection efforts. On quieter days, they venture out to gather data on various atmospheric conditions such as temperature, humidity, wind speed, wind direction, and pressure.

Research Scientist Dr. Tyler Bell expressed optimism about the potential of drone technology to enhance weather forecasting capabilities. By collecting high-resolution data and increasing the volume of measurements, he believes that they can produce even more accurate forecasts. This innovative approach leverages the power of flight to deepen our understanding of the sky’s dynamics and improve our ability to predict severe weather events before they occur.