Storm Chasers

Storms…they are dangerous…deadly…and even exciting. 

I chose this career because I am fascinated by weather, and I am one who enjoys watching storms…and even “chasing” them.

It’s an adrenaline rush.  But it’s also an accident waiting to happen.  But sometimes the real danger isn’t in the storms themselves.

Disaster movies and reality shows about storm chasing have become rather popular over the past few years.  Some say this has caused many Americans to have less respect for severe weather. 

Just recently in Oklahoma, a bridge was reportedly covered with amateur chasers during a thunderstorm.  With all the people, it made it difficult for the “real” storm chasers to do their jobs.  They said getting in the way not only puts a chasers life in danger but also the public’s. 

“They think it’s real cool and an adrenaline rush to be out there in the storm,“ said Weather Spotter Charlie Kosman.  “They don’t realize it can overtake them and kill them.“ 

Kosman also says it’s not only the storm that can be deadly, but you need to be cautious of where your standing so you’re not run over. 

True storm spotters are trained with the National Weather Service and use radars and their experience to safely follow the action.  Spotters also work closely with meteorologists. 

And meteorologists need storm spotters.  A spotter can tell the meteorologists if they see a tornado or a wall cloud.

Experts say…if you’re really interested in the weather…watch it on TV and stay off the road.  It’s not safe out there if you don’t know what you’re doing.