Ep 6. Mr. Tornado

Mr. Tornado is an episode from American Experience season 32 and it explores the life and work of the renowned American meteorologist, Ted Fujita. Nicknamed "Mr. Tornado," Fujita is famous for his groundbreaking research into severe weather patterns and the creation of the Fujita scale, which measures the intensity of tornadoes. The episode takes a deep dive into the life of this remarkable scientist, tracing his journey from his early days in WWII Japan to his arrival in America in the 1950s.

Fujita's story is not only one of scientific discovery but also a personal one, as the episode explores his experiences as a Japanese immigrant in the United States during a time of intense racial tension. The episode delves into Fujita's struggle to fit in and succeed in a country which was sometimes hostile to foreigners, and how his perseverance and scientific genius ultimately led to his achieving the respect and recognition he deserved.

The episode also highlights the significance of Fujita's work in the context of the broader history of weather science. The Fujita scale, which he developed in the 1970s, revolutionized the way meteorologists think about and measure tornadoes, providing a much more accurate and nuanced way of predicting their severity and potential impact. The episode goes on to show how Fujita's scale has had a profound impact on society, shaping everything from building codes to emergency preparedness plans to the insurance industry.

Mr. Tornado is a gripping and informative episode that sheds light on one of the most important figures in the history of weather science. It takes viewers on a journey through Fujita's life and work, exploring the personal and professional struggles he faced and the remarkable legacy he left behind. With stunning archival footage and interviews with some of Fujita's closest colleagues and friends, the episode provides a fascinating glimpse into the genius and perseverance of this remarkable man and his contributions to the field of meteorology.