Just like other ‘dangerous or risky activities or sports’, the danger is always part of that risk assessment. You know what to expect and so long as you have developed the skill and some strategies to assess and deal with those risks, chances of being caught out are greatly reduced. Every case that is thrown…
Author: admin
Jimmy Deguara is a professional storm chaser. His interest in severe weather stems back to his childhood years. It was the influence of floods and runoff associated with heavy rain which first intrigued him, and the challenge in forecasting led to his interest in thunderstorms, particularly heavy rain and hail. During 1989, a talk by Chuck Doswell on tornadoes enhanced Jimmy’s dream of chasing after a tornado. There have been a few tornadic encounters in Australia including a storm that has to be one of the favourites with an at Coffs Harbour. But it was the US trip and associated tornadoes that became the highlight of his career and dream come true! US chasing will now be an important part of his chasing calendar. And just to add to the excitement, Jimmy intercepted at close range a strong Australian tornado in northeastern NSW at the township of Dunoon.
Jimmy has frequented the media. Stories usually relate to severe weather events or interest in storm chasing. He is committed to public awareness and safety issues related to severe storms.
What type of conditions can you expect and what do storm chasers aim for?
I have chased anything from general lightning producing storms to violent supercell (rotating thunderstorms) that produce giant hailstones and tornadoes. I have not only been close to these, I have been inside these monster sized supercells (not recommended). A severe thunderstorm is defined as such because it is producing severe or even violent weather conditions that…