Nebraska researchers to lead drone-based study of storms

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Researchers at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln are planning to lead the largest drone-based study of tornadoes and severe storms ever conducted.

More than 50 scientists and students from four universities will participate during the 2019 and 2020 storm seasons. The project has received a $2.5 million in support from the National Science Foundation and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

University officials say the study is the largest of its kind, based on the geographical area covered and the number of drones and other assets deployed.

The University of Colorado Boulder, Texas Tech University, the University of Oklahoma and the National Severe Storms Laboratory are also participating.

The research is intended to improve the conceptual model of super cell thunderstorms.