My Storm Chasing History |
When I began chasing over 18 years ago, I didn't have anyone to teach me. Becoming a storm chaser in the early 2000s wasn't easy. The lack of mobile data, smartphones, and informative teaching websites made the process that much harder. I used the SPC outlook and local news to get started. But that information only took me so far. It wasn't long before I realized I would need to gain some serious weather knowledge in order to be a successful chaser.
As educational weather sites became available, and weather model sites became more accessible and informative, I began the long journey of learning theoretical principles of meteorology and applying them to the forecasting process. The road was tough. My first few years were filled with failures. Fortunately, my passion and dedication helped me persevere, and I soon began to forecast accurately and increase my success rate. As time passed, I gained more confidence in my understanding of meteorology and the forecasting process. I didn't know many people in the chasing community and had no mentor. However, I stayed committed to my goal of being an independent forecaster and successful chaser, and in the end, I made that dream come true. It was that difficult and lonely road that I traveled that inspired me to start this storm chasing opportunity. I partner with and teach new chasers because I know the challenges inherent in forecasting and storm chasing. I understand the sheer amount of knowledge and experience required in order to be successful, and I certainly wished there was someone around to help me when I first started on this road. The path to independent chasing is a lot smoother now than when I first started. Radar apps, educational sites, and weather models are easily accessible and user friendly. However, I know that nothing can take the place of an experienced guide to help you in your own journey. I've taught plenty of people how to chase and forecast successfully, and I can teach you, too! Check out some of the photos below from successful chases I've had with my storm chasing groups! |