The Courage of Storm Chasers

The hit movie Twisters depicted storm chasers driving toward tornadoes in order to better understand the science behind them. But outside the movie, what does it actually take for someone to get close to a tornado on purpose?

Storm chasing routes are often based on weather data. Chasers study the storm before they leave, and continue to compare the forecast with what is happening in front of them as they drive toward the storms. A storm could look completely different in-person than what the data suggested, especially when wind shifts or visibility is limited because of rain or harsh weather. 

Understanding the brain’s functions and triggers can help mitigate various fear responses under high levels of stress. First, the amygdala helps trigger a fear response when people sense danger, and the body releases stress hormones like adrenaline. Adrenaline can make the heart beat faster and make individuals concentrate better. However, the hormone could also lead to panic or rushed decisions. The prefrontal cortex helps with planning, judgment, and decision-making, and it is especially important because the storm chaser has to keep asking practical questions: where the storm is moving, which roads are safe, and when it is time to leave.

Psychologically, courage is not about being fearless. It is the ability to act carefully while fear is still present, and storm chasers demonstrate this kind of courage because their work requires both self-control and purpose. They are drawn toward tornadoes, but they also have to respect how unpredictable they are.

In real life, storm chasing is much different than it is portrayed in the media. It is not as exciting and riveting as movies convey the experience, and requires much precision and patience. Chasers can help meteorologists understand storms and warn communities sooner, and their courage comes from staying controlled in a situation where the brain is under extreme stress, using fear as information instead of letting it take over.