The Severe Weather Research Group at Purdue University conducts basic and applied research on thunderstorms and associated weather hazards. Here are some examples of our active projects:

• the mechanisms by which systems of thunderstorms (also known as squall lines and bow echoes) produce extensive swaths of damaging winds in addition to tornadoes;
• the dynamics of tornadoes near the ground, and how this controls their potential destcructiveness;
• the characterization of extreme sub-diurnal rainfall events in the Midwestern United States; and
• the effect of anthropogenic global warming on severe thunderstorm frequency and intensity.

Our research tools include observations, computer simulation models, and basic theory. Currently, the National Science Foundation provides much of our funding.