The radio/micro waves from cellphones and cell towers are directly affected by the amount of moisture in the air, so by analyzing trends in signal strength, an accurate reading of the atmosphere's humidity around the tower can be taken. By relaying this signal back to researchers when a flood-causing storm is likely, they can attempt to predict the magnitude of the event pinned to specific geographic areas. It has also allowed scientists to gain weather data on remote areas they had never been able to track before.