All Rise...

Judge David Johnson has nothing smarmy to say about tornadoes. Frankly, they freak him out.

The Charge

Oklahoma has an exciting young professional basketball team, but I'm not sure that compensates for all these deadly tornadoes.

The Case

The setting: April 2011. A historic tornado swarm devastates the Midwest and claims the lives of 360 people. PBS' esteemed science series NOVA takes a look at the phenomenon, examining the mechanics of these twisters and how current technology has been able to offer early warning systems. While these early warnings provide a bit of a headstart, there is still plenty of yardage to make up before flawless tech can keep the mortality rates down. The scientists spotlighted here endeavor to research a better way, which includes driving something that bears a striking resemblance to the crazy piece of crap Bill Paxton and Helen Hunt were using in Twister.

Deadliest Tornadoes runs just north of fifty minutes and, if you've had any exposure to NOVA, you know that these guys always deliver on the scientific documentary. Provocative dime store novel title or not, this one keeps that tradition rolling.

Supplementing the extensive professional and amateur tornado footage are an excellent selection of interviews. The researchers and scientists offer expert book smarts, while a handful of real life tornado survivors share their harrowing tales, often while escorting the camera man through what remains of their shattered homes.

Good stuff all around and a treat for fans of extreme weather.

The Verdict

Not Guilty. It's no Metal Tornado, but really what is?

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