Prediction a few years ago was more and much more severe turbulence. North Atlantic routes were specially mentioned. Would be interesting to hear from 'frequent flyers' on those to find out if they 'feel' a difference or trend.
As far as i know there was some research in the past but not really further developed then. The 'wet' is easier than the 'dry'. Lidar was on the longlist. Range an issue.
Have not heard about a breakthrough new idea yet, for example on CAT. Happens i have an idea myself, but wont spend much time on that, market is not ready yet for that kind of solution. In that respect, may sound weird, it is interesting to follow the serious events around Katrina... Irma,Jose,Maria, ... to find out what will trigger decision making.