London, ON (Nov. 1, 2024) \u2013 Western University has announced the launch of the Canadian Severe Storms Laboratory (CSSL<\/a>) within its Faculty of Engineering<\/a> to advance the study of atmospheric science, including thunderstorms, hail, and flash floods. The project is supported by a $20 million investment from the university\u2019s long-established partner, ImpactWX, to position the CSSL as the authoritative source for severe thunderstorm data and research in the country, with the goal of mitigating damage and improving the safety and well-being of all Canadians.<\/p>\n \u201cThe CSSL will greatly improve severe and extreme weather detection and documentation across the country while mitigating harm to Canadians and their properties,\u201d said Greg Kopp, CSSL founding director and ImpactWX Chair in Severe Storms Engineering.<\/p>\n A global leader in wind engineering and climate resiliency for 60 years, Western University is changing the way Canadians think about the country\u2019s most dangerous and damaging weather events.<\/p>\n \u201cWestern\u2019s track record in climate change research and natural disaster mitigation stands among the top in the world,\u201d said Western President Alan Shepard. \u201cImpactWX\u2019s continued investment and the launch of the CSSL will amplify our research capacity significantly. Gathering essential storm data and providing critical analysis will help inform policy and will result in real damage prevention and mitigation strategies to help people, communities and businesses right across the country.\u201d<\/p>\n