Winnipeg students help predict severe weather

Severe weather is difficult to deal with. It’s even tougher to predict.

“The upper atmosphere, we still don’t understand,” said Rose Sengenberger, an environmental studies student at the University of Manitoba.

With some help from a big balloon and a small device, U of M students are giving forecasters a clearer picture of what is in the sky.

“We’re hoping the balloon’s information will give a little more of an idea of what that severe weather risk really is,” said John Hanesiak, an atmospheric science professor.

Students release weather balloons when there is a risk of severe storms. Two went up Thursday.

Temperature, humidity, wind speed and pressure are continually fed back in real time from as high as 17 kilometres above earth.

It is information Environment Canada wouldn’t normally get. The weather service only releases its own balloons in northern Manitoba.

“It gives us actual conditions which is something that any model is lacking on and that is a huge element in predicting severe weather,” said Ted Gresiuk, with Meteorological Services Canada.

The group’s fascination with weather extends beyond balloons. On Friday they’ll hit the road storm chasing. It’s part of a unique program at the U of M.

Hanesiak said the death of three storm chasers in the southern United States a few weeks ago hit close to home.

“There is the danger factor but with our course we try to stay as safe as possible,” said Hanesiak.

Severe weather can be caused by moisture from crops. The growing season in Manitoba was pushed back, so were the strong storms.

“Things are delayed by a few weeks so the whole peak might shift to mid or late July,” said Hanesiak.