Chasing storms in hopes of glimpsing a massive twister puts storm chasers in the midst of some of weather’s most violent conditions. Braving roads during sleet, hail, high winds, and severe lightening, these extreme hobbyists put themselves in a position which meteorologists warn viewers to avoid.

Many do it for the sheer thrill and danger involved, the hope of seeing a tornado touch down and getting away before the twister’s powerful winds move too close. With cameras poised for breathtaking footage, storm chasers take the risk in hopes of gathering impressive footage for their own archives — or possibly aid meteorologists and scientists in understanding the conditions behind a twister’s formation.

But many storm chasers also have their cell phones ready, too — with the number of the local television station’s weather team. Storm chasers aren’t solely focused on the thrill of dangerous storms — many chasers spend much of their experience as “on the spot reporters” for local meteorologists and weather forecasters. Their inside perspective on storm conditions, including cloud rotation, storm speed and direction, and wind damage contributes valuable information for station storm coverage.

The value of the storm chaser’s perspective (and the excitement of the pursuit) helps explain the number of meteorologists who chase storms during their weekends and spare time. Their skills are particularly helpful in analyzing storm progress for meteorologists and forecasters during dangerous weather conditions.

While storm chasing can be dangerous (and isn’t for the faint of heart), its participants can sometimes help monitor potential danger for local residents through their risks. Those who chase storms responsibly, without disobeying laws or law enforcement directions, may serve a greater purpose in the scientific struggle to monitor and predict sever weather.