Need advice on storm chasing!?

Question

Ever since I was little I've wanted to chase storms for a hobbie and if I was lucky as a career. I'd like any advice as to supplies and locations that are good/easy to travel. Also any other advice based off experience. Unfortunatly I live in Michigan and it may be some time before I get out into the plains states so if anyone had advice about Michigan that would be helpful too. Thank you.

Answer 1

I've chased storms for years.

Checking out storm chasing information online is a great place to start. There are many websites that offer a great deal of information. The first one you may want to check is Stormtrack.
http://www.stormtrack.org
They have a discussion forum that includes a beginners/novice section.

As a degreed meteorologist, I can tell you that, while storm chasing can be a thrill, it is far from what you likely see on TV or in the movies (Twister). Storm chasing takes a great deal of education about the weather, patience with mother nature, and persistence. You also need money. A reliable vehicle, gas, and all the necessary technology add up fast.

In terms of tools, the primary necessity is a reliable vehicle. You cannot risk being caught in the path of a storm with a car prone to breaking down. Other useful tools, in order of priority:
1. Cell phone with good connection in the midwest
2. Weather radio for watches/warnings
3. Atlas and/or Gazetteer for the area
4. Cameras - still and video
5. GPS
6. Laptop computer (preferably with a mobile internet connection)

Much of the midwest has a relatively good road grid, so it is good chase territory.

This season has been a great disappointment to many chasers, as there has been a "drought" of severe weather much of this summer.

Remember: It is rare to get a great storm, many chasers drive hundreds or thousands of miles in a season just to see a few storms. Additionally, it is VERY difficult to make money at storm chasing - only a few very experienced and highly educated people are able to do that...only a few dozen in the country get paid to bring paying guests on "storm chasing tours".

Answer 2

Your best option is to take a storm chasing tour with experienced chasers. I have chased three times with Silver Lining Tours, led by chaser Roger Hill. It is an experience beyond description. Most of your time is spent in the van getting to where the storms are supposed to break, and there is no guarantee you will see anything. You will learn a tremendous amount about the weather, and you will get to see a vast amount of middle America.

Unless you know the basics of storm structure, formation and life cycle, are an incredible driver, know the basics of storm safety and have someone who can go with you, I don't recommend chasing. Even after three summers' chasing with Roger Hill (who is superhuman behind the wheel), I would never consider chasing on my own...and I know the basics. Go to www.silverliningtours.com, and check out what they have to offer. It's well worth the time and expense. I have seen gorgeous lightning (and night-time lightning on the Plains is a sight to behold), supercells, and even one tornado (very small, far away and brief). If you are expecting to relive the movie "Twister", it ain't gonna happen. Besides, even that movie was totally wrong about so many things on so many levels!!!! You'll learn how when you go chasing!

Answer 3

WOW mammatus has it right. I am a certified weather spotter / storm chaser with midwest Severe Storm Tracking and response Center, and we are always ready to help out new people. Check us out at

http://www.midwestsstrc.org/index.htm

but remember that Safety is always priority one. If you have any questions feel free to e-mail me, or the group

Answer 4

idk.....o well i got points!!!!!!!