StormNet is the world's largest organized Media Storm Chase team. It currently consists of more than 250 chasers serving 30+ TV stations in 25 states.
The team has a diverse make-up. Our members range from professional research meteorologists to media professionals to teachers, doctors, engineers, and military members. Each member brings unique experience and interests to the table, giving StormNet a tremendous wealth of information to draw on. While many of our members are extremely active chasers with years of experience, just as many are 'weekend warriors' looking to break into the hobby.
Our primary purpose is to act as a liaison between individual chasers and local or national media outlets at no cost to the chaser. The extensive media experience offered by StormNet's board of directors give up-and-coming chasers a foot in the door at media outlets in their local market, as well as national organizations like the Associated Press and cable news networks. We have working relationships with dozens of local TV stations throughout the US. If we don't have a contact in your market, we'll find one.
Because our members are spread throughout the country, we can also offer news outlets a means of finding experienced, highly qualified chasers in their market to provide photos, video, and commentary on weather events. If we don't yet have a chaser in a specific market, we'll recruit one.
While supplying information to the media is our primary focus, the team has a number of other interests within the hobby. Enhancing public safety is a priority, both increasing citizen awareness of weather safety through classes and presentations, as well as providing trained, dedicated spotters to NWS offices throughout the country via Skywarn and Amateur Radio. A vast majority of StormNet chasers are Skywarn certified, most are ham radio operators, and many have extensive training in forecasting severe weather, and the dynamics that make thunderstorms tick.
StormNet also has a number of engineers in assorted fields within its ranks. This background provides a very healthy environment for innovation in severe weather forecasting, real time condition logging and reporting, photography techniques, and safety. While the research and development aspect is still in its infancy, an ongoing effort is focusing on creating a dedicated department within StormNet to focus on these projects.
Where ever your interests lie within the storm chasing hobby, you'll find StormNet members who are just as interested and dedicated as you are. Meteorology, disaster communications, public safety, artistic and news photography, electronics & computers, or research & development, we've got it all.
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