A recent paper authored by a German professor and an American colleague proposes a new and ostensibly more effective way of tornado detection. Prof. Ernst Schmitter of the University of Applied Sciences Osnabrück and John Leeman of the Leeman Webb Storm Laboratory note that as dust particles whirl amid the rain or hail of a thunderstorm they become electrically charged and generate an electrical signal that is characteristic of the rotation properties of each storm. In one actual experiment, they have demonstrated that this electrical signal is present and detectable (though quite weak). They theorize that detecting via electromagnetic waves would be particularly advantageous as compared to the usual radar based detection methods. Low-frequency radiation can penetrate further through cloud formations for a more accurate picture of the heart of the storm. Also, an EM signal can be picked up instantly while a few minutes are required to refresh each radar scan. For more on this technique, readthe article abstract online, or visitthe Leeman Webb Storm Laboratory website.
Early Warning via EM Waves
