About Ben & StormSector

StormSector was founded by Ben Alonzo in 2001. The goal of StormSector is to encourage, educate, and advance the atmospheric science community as well as public service sector. This site is dedicated to the study, research, and operational fields of atmospheric science as well as emergency operations.

Ben is an experienced scientist who studies severe weather, has storm chased for over eight years, and worked with numerous government agencies including multiple Fortune 500 companies spanning science and information technology. He has contributed to numerous corporate knowledge bases, standard operating directives, as well as provided training materials to the National Weather Service. His photos and videos have been featured on ABC, CNN, Fox, MSNBC, NOAA News, and NBC. You might have also heard Ben's live severe weather reports on various radio networks.

"My interests are severe weather forecasting and emergency operations. In addition to my passion for studying severe weather, I'm also highly interested in how we plan and respond to emergency events using technology. While studying for my Atmospheric Science Degree, I graduated from a NREMT program. As a nationally certified and licensed medical professional, I'm interested in making a difference helping those affected by disasters. Professional EMT's are directly involved in search and rescue missions, communications, law enforcement, disaster recovery, and damage assessment. They are trained and experienced. Anyone who plans to be on the scene of a disaster or any emergency should do the same; get education and experience. My philosophy is knowledge and skills before thrills."

Research & Development
Research plays an important role in our society. New technology makes it possible to provide accurate forecasts as well as more timely warnings of threatening weather. Technology is always evolving. Globally, advances in weather forecasting have also saved countless life, property, and livestock. The financial as well as physical impact from weather can be reduced if effective scientific techniques are utilized.

"Over the past few years, I've been able to secure commercial sponsorship for many of my projects including software development and Mesoscale forecasting. I consider myself a very different breed of storm chaser. Although observing severe weather can be exciting, I'm more interested in the educational and science aspects. My goal has always been to contribute to and improve our existing warning systems responsible for preservation of life and property. Research continues to this day."

New breed Of Storm Chaser
Today, many seek the thrill of observing severe weather in action. While caught up in the excitement, people take unnecessary risks and create dangerous situations. There only purpose is to make a name for themselves by attempting to capture the perfect storm or tornado on tape.

"I separate myself from that crowd because of my unique background, education, and experience. The new breed of storm chaser's sole drive is much more productive. Although it is common practice to record severe weather events, a true professional storm chaser lives to study, educate others, and advance science. We need to work together to reach our goal of progress."

Community Work
For nearly ten years Ben has served the community as a volunteer with AERO, The Federal Emergency Management Agency, Emergency Radio Communications teams, National Weather Service, Skywarn, and Red Cross. During his free time, he also teaches Emergency Medical Science labs to new students.

Volunteers are always welcome. They can help (especially professional volunteers) with search, rescue, law enforcement, disaster recovery, communications, damage assessment, and more. StormSector encourages all people to get involved in their community. You can do your part plus feel good about it too! If you would like to volunteer, start by visiting the website of the organization your interested in.

Media
If you are interested in a public speaking engagement or interview, please use the contact form. Special weather data including research materials may also be available by request. *Please note that any use of copyright works require expressed citation or credits. Unauthorized use is prohibited. *Students must be sure to cite research and sources.

top