They come prepared to hunt down these storms, hauling along their own radar and other instruments to aid in collecting storm measurements. Photographers are often found combing the Plains states in search of the perfect severe weather shot. For other weather enthusiasts, capturing thunderstorms, hail and tornadoes on video is serious business. Storm chasing can be dangerous business. Tornadoes can form quickly or be hidden by rain.
Lightning is a hazard too, especially in wide-open areas where storm chasing usually takes place.
Most severe storm chasers go to the Plains states to look for severe weather because it's the heart of tornado alley . Another reason for chasing storms in the Plains states as opposed to the Southeast is storms in the Plains states are not as often obscured by rain and haze. There are also few hills or trees to block the view. Recently, storm chasing has become high tech. Some bring along Direct Broadcast Satellite receivers to watch The Weather Channel to find out where the storms are on radar.