Monday, July 20, 2020

American Experience: Mr. Tornado


The Super Outbreak of 1974 was the most intense tornado outbreak on record, tearing a vicious path of destruction across thirteen states, generating 148 tornadoes from Alabama to Ontario, damaging thousands of homes, and killing more than 300 people. Meteorologist Tetsuya Theodore “Ted” Fujita spent ten months studying the tornado outbreak’s aftermath in the most extensive aerial tornado study ever conducted, and through detailed mapping and leaps of scientific imagination, made a series of meteorological breakthroughs.





His discovery of “microbursts,” sudden high wind patterns that could cause airplanes to drop from the sky without warning, transformed aviation safety and saved untold numbers of lives. “ Mr. Tornado ” is the remarkable story of the man whose groundbreaking work in research and applied science saved thousands of lives and helped Americans prepare for and respond to dangerous weather phenomena.

My Thoughts


Nature is a beautiful, but it is also the most dangerous force on earth. Tornadoes are one of the most dangerous types of storm and are also difficult to predict. This documentary delves into the research done by Ted Fujita. After a group of devastating tornadoes in 1974, he studied the storms extensively. His research led to the discovery of microbursts. This research was incredibly important to flight navigation and has saved many lives. This documentary helps the average person understand some of the science behind tornadoes. 

I've never experienced a tornado, but this documentary helps me to imagine how awful it might be. Thanks to Fujita, we are able to predict the path with far more accuracy and save  many lives. If you want to grab a copy of this amazing DVD for your library,  you can find them in stores nationwide, at PBS.org, or on Amazon.





0 comments: