Every year thunderstorms, tornadoes, and hurricanes cause billions of dollars of damage and claim human lives. These storms are powerful and sometimes deadly forces of nature. Because of the risks these storms pose to human health and to economic well-being, scientists work to find better ways of predicting them. They also work to make sure that the public receives adequate advance notice to prepare for storms. You have likely seen TV news crews warning people of a coming storm, giving information on how to prepare for and stay safe during the storm. Click on the pictures below to learn more about how scientists serve the the public by predicting storms.

	Scientists do intense research on tornadoes, hurricanes, and other extreme weather events each year. This research allows them to provide more accurate weather forecasts and predictions of storms. Storm spotters and tornado chasers are in the field tracking this data. These scientists actually fly planes into hurricanes or chase tornadoes so that they can gather data that can be used to make more reliable forecasts of storms in the future.
	Scientists at the National Weather Service issue watches and warnings that help us prepare for the arrival of storms and the hazards they bring. Working around the clock, these scientists provide live, real-time updates of weather conditions all over the country and issue immediate public warnings if a storm is approaching. For tornadoes, watches and warnings are issued by The National Weather Service in Norman, Oklahoma.
	Scientists also work at the National Hurricane Center in Miami Florida. Here they provide the public with information on what hurricanes are doing and where they may make landfall. The National Hurricane Center issues hurricane watches and warnings for the public.