Ep 17. Deadliest Tornadoes

On the 10th of April in 1979, an F4 tornado hit the town of Wichita Falls, Texas, killing 42 people and causing millions of dollars in damage. This tornado was far from the first and certainly not the last to strike the United States. The country's central region, known as Tornado Alley, is particularly susceptible to these deadly storms. In the NOVA Season 39 Episode 17 titled Deadliest Tornadoes, viewers are taken on a journey through time, learning about the science of deadly tornadoes and the brave individuals who study and chase them.

The episode begins by exploring some of the deadliest tornadoes in history, including the Tri-State Tornado of 1925, which killed nearly 700 people as it tore across Missouri, Illinois, and Indiana. NOVA then introduces us to the researchers and storm chasers who put their lives on the line to study these storms up close. We meet meteorologist and storm chaser Tim Samaras, who developed specialized instruments to measure the wind, pressure, temperature and humidity inside a tornado. He hoped that, through his research, he could achieve his ultimate goal of creating a more accurate warning system that could save lives.

In the wake of the 2013 tornado that struck Moore, Oklahoma, NOVA highlights some of the technology currently being used to study storms and protect communities. One of the most powerful tools in this fight is Doppler radar, which allows meteorologists to track the movement of storms and identify areas where tornadoes may form. We watch as storm researchers use drones to fly into the heart of a thunderstorm, and we see how satellite imagery is used to monitor and predict severe weather.

Deadliest Tornadoes also delves into the human toll of these storms. We hear from survivors of the Joplin, Missouri tornado in 2011, which killed over 150 people, and the Tuscaloosa, Alabama tornado in 2011, which killed over 50 people. We also learn about the massive effort it takes to clean up after these storms, from clearing downed power lines and debris to rebuilding damaged homes and businesses.

Amidst all this destruction, however, NOVA also shines a light on the people who stand up in the face of disaster to help their communities. We meet Matt Pearce, a police officer in Joplin who risked his life to save others, and we see how volunteers from all across the United States came together after devastating tornadoes to help those in need. Through these stories, we are reminded that, even in the midst of tragedy, there is hope.

In conclusion, NOVA Season 39 Episode 17 offers a comprehensive look at the science and the impact of deadly tornadoes. It highlights the incredible work being done by meteorologists and storm chasers to understand these storms better and protect communities from their devastating power. Moreover, this episode does an excellent job of honoring those who have lost their lives in these storms and those who have become heroes through their brave actions in the face of disaster. Deadliest Tornadoes is a must-watch for anyone interested in the science of weather and the human experience in the midst of natural disaster.