But since simple fairness logically transcends sociopolitical ideologies, I supported Shannon Key when she started an online firestorm by questioning the dearth of women in storm chasing. An essay with Chuck Doswell about irresponsible media storm chasers documents bizarre, unsafe and illegal behavior by TV media crews during severe weather, and recommends forthright ways to deal with it. The version linked here is the authentic original . You may not agree with us, but you should read the real thing before forming any opinions. Several years ago, I tested major brands of 35 mm slide film to judge their performance under storm intercept conditions .
Any bozo can go out and snap pictures of weather damage.
Many do so for thrills, some for publicity, and a few for legitimate survey work, documentation and analysis. Much of the Internet has become a reeking wasteland of intellectual sludge since its commercialization a few years ago. There is no guaranteed safe place inside a violent tornado. Overpasses are death traps in severe weather. The spirit of neighbors helping neighbors rebuild is happening in wonderful ways.