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What is a Storm?

Storm is a phenomenon of the atmosphere's violent disturbance because of high winds, frequently thunders, precipitation of heavy rain, hail, snow, etc. The wind is of a particular degree of violence. On Beaufort's scale, the force of the wind is 11 and the velocity 100 - 120 km/h.

When and how often do Storms occur?

Storms (not to be confused with thunderstorms) occur mainly on seas and oceans; the closer to a sea a place is, the more frequently it is stroked by storms. Some coastal regions are very windy, with an almost permanent strong wind, e.g. in Eastern Canada. In other parts of the world storms occur mostly in specific months, usually in autumn and winter. Northern Europe suffers from storms, which when coupled with heavy rain cause serious flooding. The coastlands of the North and Baltic Seas are particularly vulnerable, so are some certain inland areas.

How does science cope with Storms?

Scientists try to predict storms, heavy winds and hurricanes by analysing satellite images.

Flood forecasting and warning is a prerequisite for successful mitigation of flood damage. Flood forecasting systems have been advanced to use the latest developments in monitoring, communications and computing technology. They are mostly based on precipitation forecasts, and an appropriate modelling of riverbeds, valleys and water flows. Using radar and modelling, rainfall and its consequences can be predicted more and more accurately. Floods can be mitigated via combined improvements in forecasting and river basins management. In addition, the authorities must dispose over adequate information channels and provide reliable flood warnings to the citizens on time.

Selected RTD Projects to be presented in SHIELD's Exhibitions

      Click here for Storms related RTD Projects