Number: R40097
Title: Severe Thunderstorms and Tornadoes in the United States
Authors: Peter Folger, Specialist in Energy and Natural Resources Policy; Aisha C. Reed, Analyst in Natural Resources Policy 
Abstract: At issue for Congress is its role in mitigating damages, injuries, and fatalities from severe thunderstorms and tornadoes. The National Science and Technology Council has recommended that communities implement hazard mitigation strategies and technologies, some of which-such as conducting weather-related research and development and disseminating results-Congress has supported through annual appropriations for federal agencies such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the National Science Foundation, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, NASA, and others. Other recommended strategies include land use and zoning changes, which are typically not in the purview of Congress.
Pages: 20
Date: December 2, 2008