Storm Chasing Tips

Hello! Storm chasing is taking on a whole new look for 2009. There are more storm chasers than ever on the highways and country roads of the Great Plains.

In addition to professional and amateur chasers, watch for the Vortex 2 Project researchers out there. This is an ambitious data-gathering armada of vehicles bristling with antennas and anemometers.

The biggest danger, in my opinion, is not tornadoes or hail. The most dangerous part of storm chasing is traffic accidents.

Dedicated, professional storm chasers will take this fact into consideration when engaged with their craft. However, there are plenty of novice chasers who become overly excited and reckless while chasing. Their focus is the storm, which is up in the sky, not on the road. They are speeding along with their eyes on the funnel cloud above them, not noticing the chaser in front who has slowed down to pull off the road. So far, there have not been any major accidents related to storm chasing, but it's just a matter of time.

If you are a beginner, or inexperienced with the art of storm chasing, please indulge me while I relate a few tips to you related to the danger of traffic accidents.

1.) Chase with a partner. One of you drives, the other watches the sky or the computer.
2.) Do not stop on the road. Slow down and pull way off to the side.
3.) Use your flashers when stopped on the roadside.
4.) Do not speed through small towns. Besides the unthinkable possibility of running over a
small child, the local sheriff is wary of storm chasers and will bust you.
5.) Avoid eating while driving. This is an unnecessary distraction.
6.) Do not attempt to write your blog while driving. This sounds crazy, but I've seen chasers do
it!
7.) Get a hands-free cell phone headset or earpiece. You need both hands to drive.
8.) Don't core punch your first time out. It can be very intimidating
9.) Save your camera and video recorder for when you stop. The shot will still be there when
you pull over.
10.) Watch the other chasers and drivers around you. If someone is driving recklessly, report
them. Drive defensively. Missing a storm or a photo opportunity is not worth your life, or
the life of another.

In my next post, I'll give you some other pointers on how to chase successfully if you are just starting out...stay tuned!

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