
Moderately Difficult
Storm Chasing Fundamentals
From Convective Outlooks to the Intercept: The Science and Art of Chasing
- Format
- Hybrid
- Length
- 4 hr 4 min
- Modules
- 10
- Lessons
- 86
About this course
Storm Chasing Fundamentals is a master-level training program built to turn passion into precision on the open road. Designed for aspiring storm chasers, photojournalists, and severe weather enthusiasts, this multi-part series walks you through the entire operational process of an intercept, from morning convective outlooks to post-storm verification. The curriculum grounds you in atmospheric fundamentals, walking step-by-step through SPC products, skew-T log-P interpretation, model dynamics, and dual-polarization radar signatures so you can identify targeting zones with confidence. Crucially, the course focuses on what happens when the forecast turns into reality. You'll dive deep into supercell anatomy, storm-mode transitions, nocturnal boundary layer dynamics, and the hidden dangers of night chasing. Paired with this meteorological core is a dedicated track on field media capture, teaching you how to handle high-contrast storm lighting, stabilization, color science, and camera settings in severe environments, all while upholding strict ethical standards and public safety reporting guidelines. Through interactive chase simulations, group forecasting projects, and real-time data analysis, Storm Chasing Fundamentals ensures you don't just watch the weather, you understand it, document it safely, and navigate the storm zone with expert-level situational awareness.
Syllabus
What you will cover
Introductions
2 lessons · 9 min- Platform Walkthrough & FAQ9 min
- Class Structure & Focus
The Basics
7 lessons · 33 min- Fundamental Knowledge
- Camera Types, Lenses & Other Parts8 min
- Convective Outlooks & Mesoscale Discussions5 min
- Smartphone Photography & Chase Equipment4 min