Most people run away from storms. But some people are crazy enough to run towards them. I am one of those people and from today through June 7, I’ll be joined by two others as we go tornado chasing over the Great Plains
Photo credit: Chris Scragg
Storm chasing is unique because it seamlessly reconciles both being a nerd and an adrenaline junkie. You won’t find many nerdy big wave surfers or thrill-seeking open-heart-surgeons, but every single storm chaser you’ll encounter embraces both of these seemingly opposite personas wholeheartedly. In fact, the nerdier you are, the more you know about how tornadic thunderstorms work, and the closer you’ll be able to safely position yourself to a tornado.
Storm chasing is not for the faint of heart. Chasers have to travel hundreds and hundreds of miles across the Great Plains in pursuit of these storms and encounter all sorts of obstacles along the way. Whether it’s the horrific stench downwind of a cattle feed lot, cop cars trying to catch overzealous tornado chasers in pursuit of a very threatening storm, and the same continental breakfast for over a week, storm chasing can be a taxing process. But it is so worth it in the end.
I’ll have new blogs each day reporting on the previous chase, and I’ll post frequent updates on my personal weather page here. Of course, all my blogs and some particularly spectacular photos will be published on the WeatherTogether page as well.
Wish us luck!
Charlie, Chris, and Joey
4 Comments
Have a great time! Hoping you see some twisters, and stay safe!!
As the Irish say: May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind always be at your side. May the sun shine warm upon your face, and rains fall soft upon your car until you capture an awesome view of one of nature’s most terrific shows! Be safe and have fun!
If you make it near Hot Springs, Arkansas, at all, let me know!
Will do Nathan!!! Thanks.