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North Alabama Dixie Alley Storm Team, Decatur, AL (2025)

08/01/2025

07/25/2025

I am observing numerous new Chase groups emerging, comprising enthusiastic individuals who are just starting out. Their excitement is palpable, and I am genuinely thrilled for them. Severe weather is a lifelong passion that, when pursued correctly, will consistently yield benefits for oneself and others. However, it is essential to remember not to emulate Jonas, a character from the movie Twister. Many of you may recall the valuable lesson learned from that film. As someone who has watched Twister multiple times, I can attest to its significance. Interestingly, Twister was the first movie purchased for me, released in 1996, when I was just one year old. Although I was too young to fully comprehend the film at that time, my fascination with weather has persisted. In fact, I was unable to watch the entire movie until I was at least 15 years old due to its mature content. Upon finally watching it in its entirety, I grasped the importance of conducting oneself with integrity and prioritizing the greater good. Jonas's character, driven by greed and self-interest, serves as a cautionary tale. In contrast, Bill and Helen's selfless motivations and commitment to advancing scientific knowledge for the betterment of society are exemplary. To all the new chasers and those establishing pages, I offer this advice: do not pursue storm chasing for financial gain. Doing so would undermine the fundamental purpose of this endeavor. Instead, emulate Bill Paxton's character, driven by a genuine passion for science and a desire to save lives. If your motivations are not rooted in a sincere enthusiasm for the field and a commitment to contributing positively, I encourage you to reconsider your involvement.