What is STORM?
STORM = Severe Thunderstorm Observation and Research Mesonet
Severe convective storms (SCS) are frequently observed in Canada during the summer months, particularly in the southern Prairies, Ontario, and southern Quebec. Some recent examples are the downbursts and tornadoes associated with the 2022 derecho along the Windsor–Quebec City corridor (16 dead, 12 injured, over $1.2B in insured losses), the 2024 hailstorm in the Calgary area with over $2.9B in insured losses, and the 2013 flash flood in the Toronto area with $1.0B in insured losses.
The forecasting of SCS is difficult, even in the hours just before storm impacts begin. Numerical Weather Prediction models are often unable to accurately predict the location, timing and intensity of SCS. In order for forecasters to provide timely warnings, observations with high temporal and spatial resolution are required to both detect and nowcast (0–6-hour forecast) SCS occurrence.
With this in mind, the objectives of STORM are:
- Provide the best possible surface-based observations for SCS detection and nowcasting.
- Evaluate specialized instrumentation built to handle extreme weather.
- Evaluate the utility of a regional surface station network enhanced for SCS detection and nowcasting in the context of possible future installations of additional and/or expanded networks in other locations across Canada.
Currently, NMP operates the (Hail)STORM network in the Calgary, AB region with the goal of detecting and nowcasting severe hail. In the future we hope to create the (Wind)STORM network in SW Ontario with the goal of detecting and nowcasting severe wind; and the (Rain)STORM network in Montreal, QC with the goal of detecting and nowcasting severe flash flooding.
