In the U.S., tornado season is more than just a weather event; it’s a reality that affects millions. Forecasts can change in minutes, and reaction time is critical. Modern weather apps, especially those based on radar data, are becoming more than just a vital source of information for users in the U.S.
In this column, I’ll explore changing weather habits, what matters most in apps during extreme weather, and why radar is now more important than temperature.
From TV to Mobile App: A Slow but Inevitable Transition
Americans have traditionally remained loyal to TV forecasts. In many households, TV is the primary source of storm information. However, we are already seeing this role gradually shifting to mobile apps. Weather radar apps are now the go-to for seeing real-time weather unfold with your own eyes.
What does a user look for in a radar app during a tornado?
Everything. Literally everything at once.
- Accuracy: Where exactly is the tornado?
- Updates every 5 minutes or less: Critical in conditions where the direction of movement changes unpredictably.
- Visualization of the storm’s movement: To see where it might go, even if it’s just a probability.
- Warnings from national weather services: Speed of delivery is key.
“Advanced” users don’t just want alerts. They rely on radar to determine where a tornado is using the velocity product (movement speed of precipitation particles).
Can users predict tornadoes themselves?
Yes and no. A radar map can show a zone that is potentially a tornado. However, even professionals cannot reliably say what is happening without visual confirmation. Typically, this is a hook echo – a special hook-shaped pattern on the radar map.
The rise of “weather aware people”: a new generation of enthusiasts
Recent years have shown rapid growth in the community of weather enthusiasts. From comparing forecast models to live-tweeting storm fronts, this community is turning radar reading into a shared skillset, even without a degree in meteorology.
This has become possible due to:
- the openness of radar data (especially in the USA),
- the growth of advanced mobile apps,
- the general improvement of visualization of complex processes.
These people do not replace meteorologists but they are better prepared to react, understand what is happening, and spread information in their communities.
What’s next? Personalization as a key driver
The next step is hyperlocal warnings. We want the app to warn not just “within the county,” but:
“A tornado will be in your area in 8 minutes.”
This is a daunting task. But this will become a reality with the development of AI, machine learning, and more accurate sensors. For now, the main task of an app during a tornado is to deliver critical information to the user as quickly as possible.
Tips for users during tornado season
- Install a weather app that instantly delivers tornado alerts from national weather agencies.
- Proactively react to a “Tornado Warning”. Pay close attention and study all the information from all “Tornado Watch” and especially “Tornado Warning” notifications.
- If there is a velocity radar function — use it to spot the possible location of a tornado and its movement.
Weather apps have become more than just forecasts. They’re safety tools that can save lives. But they only work if you know how to use them.
As practice shows in working with Rain Viewer, the number of such users is growing. This means that we are moving in the right direction.
