Because storm chasing primarily began in the United States, for reasons to study the behaviour of tornadoes, storm chasers seem to have a relatively high acceptance in the community. In the United States, literally thousands of chasers embark on storm chasing expeditions across Tornado Alley. Anyone from storm enthusiasts to researchers and even storm chasing tour companies who are paid…
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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.
Acceptance of Storm Chasing?
Storm chasing is also comparitively new in Australia. Initial public perception and acceptance of storm chasing in hind sight was predicable. Consider what you would do if you had a group of young lads with vehicles parked near a fence looking over your property particularly if there were recent burglaries? Storm chasers…