Advances in Technology Give Challenges to Modern Day Storm Chasing

Cutting edge advances in Cellular, Wi-Fi, and Satellite Radio technology have transformed data connectivity for storm chasers. A once stationary forecasting lab can now easily be retrofitted into a vehicle for continual operational forecasting and nowcasting on the road. With a steadfast data stream of meteorological products, the process of digesting, interpreting, and applying discretional judgment to the data becomes critical for severe convective target selection. With the multiplicity of products available and limited time for analysis and evaluation, the mentality of drowning in the ‘drivers' seat has surfaced in the mobile classroom. This paper focuses on forecast experiences over the 2005 summer season in the Great Plains.