Inside Storm Chasing

A look inside storm chasing in the United States with StormSector, the website of Ben A, a meteorologist and different breed of storm chaser. This site is dedicated to the study, research, and operational fields of atmospheric science.

Storm chasing started by the simple act of individuals following storms for the sake of media coverage (recording an event/reporting a story) or scientific study. Chasers often experience first hand awesome displays of nature including large hail, tornadoes, and damaging winds.

"Storm chasing has become a popular hobby and scientific activity in the US. With Hollywood popularizing tornadoes in their "Twister" production - a plethora of people began going out, taking pictures, and rolling the dice to attempt their moment of fame by capturing the perfect storm on tape. Although the film produced some educational value by drumming up interest in severe weather preparedness, it also had negative effects. Nearly overnight, the storm chasing community grew exponentially."

The growth in chasing included unprepared, uneducated citizens venturing out into extremely dangerous situations. No longer were chasers only veterans and scientists. It is so dangerous that some cities and municipalities frown on gathering "storm chasers." Often referred to as sight seers, these people are responsible for hazardous driving, illegal lane changes, speeding, trespassing, blocking the way for emergency vehicles, and much more. Unfortunately, even a hand full of people can give the entire community a bad image.

Types of Storm Chasers
Not all chasers are the same. In the beginning there may have been only one kind of chaser. Since then, times and technology have changed. There are about three main categories of chasers today.

The first category is most common, known as the average thrill seeker or photographer (commonly called "thrill seekers" or just "photographers"). Preface: If this person follows the rules, uses common sense, regard for others, and caution - there is nothing wrong with that. However, recklessness, unprofessional demeanor, and disregard for others are simply unacceptable.

A second category is someone who frequently chases as a hobby or regular activity for the media (known as "average chaser"). Although some of these people may have past experience observing storms, they can often intermingle with the first category. The results may be deadly one day. Again, common sense, following the rules, and regard for others makes the difference between good and bad.

There is a third category of chasers. These are the people who chase for the science aspect including research or as part of their job (known as "elite" or "professional" chasers). Since they are scientists they have a different kind of understanding of severe weather. Sometimes, they appreciate hazardous weather more than others because of their knowledge. The average chaser may not completely understand the gravity of what they are getting themselves involved in.

Elite chasers continuously study atmospheric science, exercise caution, regard for others, and definitely follow the laws when appropriate. Some of these chasers are either sponsored by a corporation, university, or government agency. You may have heard some of these people publish research findings, speak at a public event, or appear on a documentary. This type of storm chaser is few and far between. You're more likely to encounter a first or second type of chaser in the field.

Why separate categories of chasers? It is important to differentiate between amateur and professional. One analogy would be would you like a volunteer average "Joe" to conduct open heart surgery on someone you love? Or would you rather have a licensed professional do the work? There is a difference. Individuals like to maintain their separation from potentially negative associations. This is why the multiple categories of storm chasers exist today.

"If there is anything to learn from this it is to gain respect and education. It is possible to start as one type of chaser and move to another. If all chasers were standardized, we would receive much more accurate reports and the community as a whole would become more respected. In addition, higher education, respect of laws, and regard for others would mean an increase in overall

safety. Everyone should want that."

A 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."

Frequently Asked Questions
StormSector receives thousands of really good questions from people around the world. We've taken the most popular questions regarding storm chasing and answered them right here. If you have a question, you can submit it using our contact form.

How did you start chasing?

"As a teenager, I began to get interested in storm spotting with a Ham Radio organization volunteering for FEMA. Observing storms started as a small obsession and then grew into something bigger."

How many storms have you chased?

"Last year I pulled out a log book and have documented accounts of severe weather back to 1993. The number of storms chased is probably going to reach the 250 mark soon after ten years of chasing. This includes short and elongated chases."

What college teaches storm chasing?

"Any accomplished university will usually offer science courses under their Earth Science Department. I have attended many colleges and atmospheric science school. Since storm chasing is just a field activity for severe weather - it's not really taught as a class. However, the atmospheric science knowledge is extremely helpful and you can build off of that."

Where do you chase at?

"Originally chase locations were only in Kansas and Oklahoma. Currently, there is currently no boundary. Remember severe weather can occur almost anywhere. I've chased in nearly every state."

Who do you chase with?

"I'm picky when it comes to chasing with others. Usually I will chase with professional business partners and other off duty personnel."

What equipment do you have?

"Good question. It is important to have all the equipment you may need for severe weather. There's the basic emergency kit, EMS mobile kit (requires license), Ham Radio equipment, weather instruments, and other computer equipment including GPS gear."

What do you like the least about chasing?

"There are actually very few things I dislike when it comes to storm chasing. The two most frustrating factors are other reckless amateurs who endanger us all and of course gas prices."

What do you like the most about chasing?

"The ability to see your prediction happen with your own eyes is my gift. If you're in the right place at the right time - you will be entertained by Mother Nature. After the storm, I often participate with official damage assessment and emergency response. Most of my thrills come from helping others during disasters and educating the public."

How old do I have to be to storm chase?

"Personally I think eighteen is a good starting age to actually physically begin to chase (with qualified training). However, it all depends on maturity and education. I've heard of some chasers starting as soon as they obtain a valid Drivers License."

What happens after the storm?

"Usually immediately following a severe weather event, damage assessment and emergency response (for trapped or injured persons) begin. There are other things that might also be necessary such as search, rescue, directing traffic, etc. I'd like to point out to people that even after the severe weather event occurs - there are consequences and effects to more than just the chaser."

Education
It is extremely important to know what your doing if you should decide to pursue severe storms in the field. If you have no understanding or appreciation for what you are dealing with - you are taking huge risks. Not only are you endangering yourself - you may be endangering others. Storm chasing is very dangerous. You wouldn't step into deep water without knowing how to swim and what's in the water.

What can I do to improve? The best thing you could do is educate yourself. Attend a spotter training session, maybe take some college courses, learn from others (who are qualified), start from the beginning, obey laws, use caution, always have regard for others. If you really want to help, get licensed and certified. There are many agencies and organizations that need qualified volunteers. Click here for links to volunteer groups.

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