What Is Storm Chasing?
During severe weather events, especially in parts of the Great Plains in the U.S, residents might notice large caravans of cars, massive trucks with strange looking science equipment being carried in the truck bed, or maybe modified cars that resemble armored tanks more than regular vehicles. These people are more than likely storm chasers. But, what exactly is storm chasing, and why would anyone pursue it?
Storm chasing is defined as “the activity of traveling to locations where a tornado or other severe weather is forecast, as a hobby or in order to photograph or study it”. The definition is simple, but the reasoning behind why a person would want to chase severe weather is as nuanced as the person themselves. Some might storm chase simply for the thrill of seeing something as extreme as a hurricane or tornado themself. The adrenaline rush of being up close and personal with one of Mother Nature’s most extreme phenomena could be likened to why anyone would go skydiving. Some chasers are scientists pursuing critical knowledge that, in return, might save lives the next time severe weather rears its head. These scientists might work with government or private agencies, seeking to understand these events so that in the future they can be better forecasted. In turn, those living in the areas where these disasters take place might stand a better chance of surviving the next time an event occurs. Other chasers might be photographers or videographers trying to capture the brilliance of weather. In some cases, these photographers and videographers might be from local news agencies working to warn their broadcast area of impending danger.
The end-goal for each chaser, however, is shared: see the event, capture it, and enjoy it in all its glory. From the scientists, to the news media, to private chasers - the goal of seeing a tornado, hurricane, or other event is at the crux of their planning. Meticulous forecasts are made, so-called “target areas” (areas that would be the most likely to see a severe weather event) are chosen, hours upon hours of time is spent on the road to get into position and see all that nature has to offer.
There is no true way to say where storm chasing began. Historically, humans have always had some fascination with weather, and it’s likely someone lost to history was the “first” person to chase storms, but modern chasing can be attributed to David Hoadley, who first began chasing in the 1950’s. Neil Ward is also considered a pioneer chaser, having worked with the Oklahoma State Patrol to study storms. Ward is widely cited as the pioneer of modern storm spotting thanks to his work.
At its core, storm chasing is simply the desire to see severe weather events. The reason behind pursuing the hobby is up to the individual. As technology has improved, more and more individuals have found themselves taking to the roads in search of that elusive severe weather event, trying to see for themselves the awesome power of nature.
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