Often times we think of storm chasing as a sport, but in reality it is a very serious activity that is done by professional storm chasers. It is a very dangerous activity, as you could easily get caught in the storm and be struck by lightning.

Professional storm chasers

Whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional storm chaser, it’s important to understand the science behind chasing storms. Storm chasing is the practice of tracking and documenting significant weather activity in order to report it to authorities. It can be a dangerous hobby, but it also has the potential to make you money. Storm chasing is a popular sport that started in the 1950s with the likes of Dave Hoadley. Hoadley was a meteorologist who wished to learn more about severe weather systems. Storm chasing has been growing in popularity over the years. Nowadays, professional storm chasers travel to storm-prone areas in search of storms. They document on-field data that helps to improve forecasts of severe weather. The media has made storm chasing popular. The public encourages this activity by promoting television shows and movies that use graphic footage. Despite this, it’s hard to earn a living chasing storms. Some chasers work for news organizations or radio stations. Some chasers make a part-time living from selling photographs or video to media outlets. Regardless of the reason you pursue storm chasing, you’ll need to make sure you have the right equipment. Storm chasers typically travel in teams. They have special vehicles and equipment designed to handle the demands of extreme weather. They also often take cameras to document events. Some chasers have a science degree, while others are amateurs who may have no technical training. Still others have a Masters or Doctorate in a scientific field. Storm chasing is a risky hobby, and you need to be prepared for any storm. You may want to invest in a four-wheel drive vehicle, emergency supplies, and a backup tire. You should also plan your route carefully, and check with the National Weather Service to see what storms are expected in your area.

Tours of tornadoes

Getting close to tornadoes is the goal of many people when planning to go on storm chasing tours. Storm chasing tours are typically held in Tornado Alley, which is a region of the western United States. The best storm chasing tours provide guests with a safe and thrilling experience. Most storm chasing tours last five to ten days. These tours are led by experienced storm chasers, who guide guests into storms and teach them about severe weather. One of the best storm chasing tour companies is Violent Skies Tours. They have a team of storm chasers, professional meteorologists and storm spotters who will get guests into the best viewing locations. They have been in the business for more than a decade and have had a tremendous track record of success. They are home to one of the best storm chasing teams in the world. Another storm chasing tour company is Extreme Tornado Tours. Their team of world-renown storm chasers have chased down hundreds of tornadoes. They have a degreed severe weather meteorologist, who rides along on each tour. The tour is also led by three veteran guides. Another storm chasing tour company is TRADD, which is based in Abilene, TX. Their tours are designed to teach guests about the power of tornadoes and the proper methods to protect themselves during a storm. TRADD has been in business since 1995 and is the leader in the industry. Another storm chasing tour company is Storm Chasers Interactive. They have been in business for more than a decade and have been featured on television programs including CNN, The Weather Channel and CBS 48 Hours. They have also been featured on National Geographic Television and Film.

Road conditions during storms

During a recent winter storm in New York City, we observed a number of notable milestones. One of the best ways to make sure the next time a snow storm rolls in is to have a comprehensive snow management plan in place well before the storm arrives. Using a pre-storm plan will reduce confusion and ensure that the roads stay clear. For example, the Department of Sanitation did its part to clear the way for Paratransit riders. The agency also retrofitted its fleet with GPS to allow for real-time plow deployment. The agency is also tasked with coordinating tow truck resources to ensure that the roads remain clear for all. The agency is also deploying a Tow Truck Task Force to help ensure that no bus or truck is left behind. The MBTA in Boston has taken the lead by developing a web-based service that lets riders see how long it will take to get to their destination. The agency is also experimenting with an automated call-in system to reduce lead time. This system will also be used to dispatch staff to assist riders with their snow removal concerns. Using a well-designed, interactive web-based service, a rider can be given a personalized route map and a personalized ETA to their destination. In addition to the rider-friendly service, the agency has also developed a fleet of vehicles that include a GPS-equipped Automatic Vehicle Location (AVL) system and an electronic toll-free telephone service to allow riders to pay their tolls online. The agency plans to upgrade its public address system to handle the volume in the event of another storm. The agency has also rolled out its signature snazzy pink bus to help boost morale.

Getting hit by lightning

Getting hit by lightning while storm chasing can be a devastating experience. Lightning strikes can cause serious injuries and even death. While there are some ways to avoid getting struck by lightning, it is important to know the most common injuries and how to treat them. A lightning strike usually results in burns and injuries to the nervous system and cardiovascular system. If the person has been hit by lightning, they should seek medical attention immediately. A victim should be treated in a medical facility with multidisciplinary services. Lightning strikes can be dangerous for anyone, but the most vulnerable individuals are those who engage in outdoor activities. The risk is highest in the summer months. The National Weather Service estimates that lightning kills at least 49 people each year in the U.S. Lightning can travel through water, wiring in urban areas, tree trunks, and even plumbing. Lightning can also hit open vehicles. During a lightning storm, the best way to protect yourself is to stay indoors and away from tall objects. Lightning strikes can cause cutaneous burns and bilateral tympanic membrane ruptures. It is also important to know the difference between positive and negative lightning. Positive lightning tends to have a greater peak electric current and a longer flash duration. Lightning is rare but can be deadly. There is a small chance of getting struck by lightning while storm chasing. However, the risk depends on the region and exposure. Lightning is most likely to strike a person who is out during a thunderstorm. People who are outside during a storm should crouch down and seek shelter in an enclosed building. If they are in a car, they should seek shelter inside a hard-top vehicle with windows rolled down.

Unrealistic expectations of what will be seen

Despite the fact that storm chasing is a time-intensive endeavor, the activity has its perks. For instance, it gives you a firsthand perspective on the best and worst of Mother Nature’s wrath. This is especially the case if you’re a seasoned veteran of the field. It’s also a fun way to rub elbows with your favorite weathermen, as well as learn a few things along the way. You’ll be able to pick the brains of the best of the best, and the oddballs of the worst. If you’re lucky, you might even get invited to attend a top secret meteorological conference. And if you’re lucky, you’ll get to take home a few trophies in the process. For more information, visit our Storm Chasing 101 page.