Severe weather season is here, and scientists in our state are taking advantage of this time to study the skies. A team of researchers from NOAA and the University of Oklahoma is using drones to gain a better understanding of how severe weather develops.
Located in Purcell, a vast field is regularly used as a takeoff spot for a 3D-printed drone affectionately known as “the shark” by the researchers. The drones are equipped with sensors that offer greater precision and flexibility than traditional weather balloons. Unlike weather balloons that are lost upon launch and can be easily affected by wind drift, the drones are built to withstand windy conditions and provide a more accurate representation of the atmosphere.
Dr. Tony Segales, a research engineer, explains the benefits of using drones over traditional weather balloons. He highlights that by utilizing drones to explore the skies, researchers are revolutionizing the way we study and understand severe weather. The ability to fly drones through the atmosphere in various conditions offers a unique perspective that can enhance our knowledge of weather patterns and phenomena.
The research team is dedicated to gathering data both during severe weather events and on calmer days to obtain a comprehensive view of the atmosphere. Dr. Tyler Bell, a research scientist, highlights the information collected by the drones, including temperature, humidity, wind speed, wind direction, and pressure. This data can lead to improved weather forecasting outcomes by providing higher resolution measurements and a greater quantity of data points.
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