The CSSL – A New Era in Severe Storms Data and Research in Canada

The Canadian Severe Storms Laboratory (CSSL) was launched at Western University in October of 2024 with the aim of being the authority for severe convective storm (SCS) data and research in Canada. The CSSL will advance the detection, documentation and understanding of SCS and their impacts across the country.

The CSSL’s mission is currently driven by three key projects: the Northern Tornadoes Project, the Northern Hail Project, and the Northern Mesonet Project. The Northern Tornadoes Project aims to improve tornado, downburst and derecho detection and documentation across Canada, utilizing aerial and ground surveys, satellite imagery and advanced research methods to improve the Canadian climatology and analyze trends.

The Northern Hail Project focuses on understanding hailstorm frequency, intensity, and impacts, leveraging radar observations, hail collection and damage assessments to better characterize hail hazards.

The Northern Mesonet Project supports these initiatives by increasing the spatial density of real-time advanced weather observations, enhancing data availability, and improving data quality for SCS analysis and prediction.

It is anticipated that an additional project, focused on flash flooding hazards related to SCS, will be launched under the CSSL banner in the coming years. Some work has already begun in that area.

The CSSL also provides unique training opportunities through its graduate student and internship programs. These programs aim to cultivate the next generation of SCS researchers by offering hands-on experience with in-field data collection, techniques development and applied research.

This presentation will outline the strategic framework and technological advancements that underpin the CSSL’s operations and research. It will also showcase the latest findings from each project and explore future directions.