Can Storm Chasing be Considered a Form of Nature Appreciation?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion explores the concept of storm chasing as a potential form of nature appreciation, examining both the beauty and dangers associated with storms. Participants share personal experiences and perspectives on the aesthetic and thrilling aspects of storms, as well as the risks involved.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants express admiration for the beauty of storms, describing them as magnificent displays of nature.
  • Others highlight the inherent dangers of storms, noting that one can become mesmerized by their beauty while overlooking the risks, such as tornadoes and lightning.
  • One participant shares a personal anecdote about experiencing storms in the Midwest, emphasizing their frequency and variety, and expresses a deep appreciation for them despite the risks involved.
  • There is mention of a specific storm type that produces cloud-to-ground lightning, which one participant finds particularly thrilling.
  • Several participants indicate that storm chasing is a favored activity and part of their bucket list.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the beauty of storms but express differing views on the risks associated with storm chasing. The discussion remains unresolved regarding whether storm chasing can be fully considered a form of nature appreciation, as opinions vary on the balance between beauty and danger.

Contextual Notes

Some statements rely on personal experiences and subjective interpretations of storms, which may not be universally applicable. There are also references to specific incidents and observations that are not universally verified.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in meteorology, nature appreciation, or outdoor activities may find this discussion relevant.

anorlunda
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When we hear the word storm, we think of the threats that it brings and the damage it might leave behind. I like this video, because it shows the spectacular sky shows that come with storms. They are surely one of our most magnificent displays of nature.

 
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Pretty nice shots!

While beautiful, Nature in its awesome power is scary too. I could imagine someone mesmerized while viewing these clouds and forget that there’s a tornado or lightning bolt lurking in there to strike.
 
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anorlunda said:
When we hear the word storm, we think of the threats that it brings and the damage it might leave behind. I like this video, because it shows the spectacular sky shows that come with storms. They are surely one of our most magnificent displays of nature.

Awesome video, I have followed Pecos Hank's ( not his real name - he did say one time how he started using that name ) storm chasing for quite a few years. He's very good.
Did anyone else notice the sub-titling error consistent throughout the video ? tomatoes instead of tornadoes haha
 
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jedishrfu said:
While beautiful, Nature in its awesome power is scary too. I could imagine someone mesmerized while viewing these clouds and forget that there’s a tornado or lightning bolt lurking in there to strike.
Not if that person is on a boat.
 
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I'm glad my folks told me about the three little pigs: I live in a brick house. Yeah I know its really a brick veneer and the tornado is a really big wolf.
I find the storms here in the Midwest to be unrivaled in their frequency, beauty, and variety. I have seen two tornados (not exactly Toto-quality) and 3 or 4 fantastic shelf clouds.. There is also a particular kind of storm that produces cloud to ground lightning almost exclusively (this is my own supposition) which is pretty hair raising. I adore them.
My friend moved into a turn of the (20th) century craftsman bungalow here 40 years ago and had the fireplace chimney relined with stainless pipe, apparently not sufficiently well grounded. Last summer the lightning physically blew up his fireplace and fried much electronics. Good thing he is a tube head (the amps survived), old mature people have insurance, and he was absent at the time. C'est la vie. Still worth it
 


Bucket list + storm chaser
 
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Spinnor said:
Bucket list + storm chaser

Something I already do :)
One of my fav activities

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