Downbursts are powerful, straight-line winds that explode out of thunderstorms and can topple trees, power lines, and even damage roofs with 80–100 mph force.

In this episode of HailChatter, Meteorologists Taylor Cox and Collin Hunt sit down with NSSL researcher Charles Kuster to explain what downbursts are, how radar helps detect them, and why new forecasting tools are keeping communities safer.

From the 2011 Norman downburst to the recent Austin event, we unpack the science and the impacts you need to know.

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ABOUT HAILCHATTER

Welcome to HailChatter, the HailTrace podcast that helps those in the restoration industry understand weather and its impact on their work. HailChatter is hosted by HailTrace's Taylor Cox, Digital Meteorologist with 5 years of experience in Plains weather, and Collin Hunt, Product Evangelist with 7 years experience in product messaging. Tune in every other Tuesday as they break down storms, uncover opportunities, and help the restoration industry weather every season.

ABOUT HAILTRACE

HailTrace is a weather technology company that simplifies storm data, empowering the restoration industry to respond instantly with reliable information. They do this through meteorologist-created storm maps, detailed weather reports, and sales tools that help teams reach the right neighborhoods first and confidently sell there.

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CHAPTERS0:

00-2:30 Why do downbursts matter and how common are they?

2:30-5:20 Who is Charles Kuster and how did he get into downburst research?

5:20-7:40 What exactly is a downburst and how is it different from a tornado?

7:40-10:15 Are terms like “rain bomb” or “downward tornado” accurate to describe downbursts?

10:15-13:00 What happened during the 2011 Norman downburst and other recent cases?

13:00-15:40 How did plane crashes in the 60s, 70s & 80s prompt downburst research?

15:40-18:20 How does dual-pol radar help to spot wet downbursts and hail?

18:20-20:50 Can we detect dry downbursts and what are the current limits?

20:50-23:00 What does a KDP core look like and how do warnings improve safety?

23:00-25:12 What’s next for downburst research and how will it reach operations?

Devastating Downbursts Bring NEW Research and Faster Warning Times | S2 E5 | HailChatter | HailTrace