Storm chasers

[Pilgrim]

I don't think one should condemn something that has merit because others decide to try it with no preparation or background.  There is a reason for the disclaimers like "Don't try this at home" and "Only trained professionals should attempt".

Thrill-seekers and those who aren't smart enough to know what they're getting into are part of Darwin's view.

[westen44]

I don't think one should condemn something that has merit because others decide to try it with no preparation or background.  There is a reason for the disclaimers like "Don't try this at home" and "Only trained professionals should attempt".

Thrill-seekers and those who aren't smart enough to know what they're getting into are part of Darwin's view.

It isn't all that different from mountain climbers who aren't prepared or people who get too close to volcanoes.  It may not be a good idea for them, but passing rules, laws, and regulations would do more harm than good.  Freedom of movement is too important to a society.  I value it greatly.  My main point, though, is that I feel storm chasing has become noticeably reckless the way I look at it.  It's supposedly for the sake of society.  The ideal solution would be extensive public storm shelters, something expensive, of course.  However, Oklahoma may be moving in that direction according to statements I've heard from the governor. 

[Dave W]

No doubt the pros have learned more about tornadoes from this. I don't think this information is particularly useful or that it saves lives. We're talking about a force of nature here. All you need to know is take shelter. Nothing the storm chasers learn can prevent another or lessen its detsructiveness. Now we're hearing propaganda that guys running out there to confirm a tornado has actually touched down (as opposed to just spotted on radar) will get people to take shelter quicker. I'm not buying that; it's pure speculation.

As I said earlier, it shouldn't be prohibited. But if even one person caught outside on the road can't get to shelter because hundreds of storm chasers are blocking the way, then IMHO they should be held accountable.