Um...yeah, storm chasers are necessary, because they provide the NWS with invaluable information that cannot be seen on radar. Information that saves countless lives every year. The NWS depends very heavily upon these people, so that they can issue more accurate warnings to the general public.
Right now, in my state, the NWS is offering courses in every county, to train people to be storm chasers. These courses are offered annually. The need is that great.
These people aren’t doing it for thrills. They’re putting their lives on the line to save our lives. And they’re so good at what they do, that accidents like this one are extremely rare.
Instead of putting these people down, they deserve the utmost respect. They’re on the same level as volunteer firefighters: American heroes.
Whatever.
Well there’s storm chasers and there’s storm chasers. Yes SOME provide useful information for NWS than can help save lives. But there are plenty that are just out there for the thrill. And both groups would be better served by having drivers that really aren’t into it, so they’ll pay attention to the road signs.
On the other hand, storm spotter training is offered at numerous locations around our area:
Each year, the National Weather Service in Midland conducts Skywarn spotter training courses across portions of west Texas and southeast New Mexico. NWS spotter training is open to the public at no charge.
This weather course is an opportunity for families to prepare for the upcoming severe weather season by providing information that can be used to develop severe weather safety plans. Additionally, different techniques are discussed for determining storm severity.
By completing the two hour course, attendees become NWS Skywarn spotters. Members of Skywarn, a volunteer weather spotting group, help relay ground truth information about thunderstorms to local officials and to the National Weather Service. The NWS uses this vital information in conjunction with radar and satellite information during severe weather operations.
Please join us, along with friends and family, at any of the National Weather Service Skywarn spotter training courses scheduled for your area.