Spike,

Here's what you'll need:

Instrumentation: The following items should accompany you on your storm chase:

Cameras, film, batteries, filters and lenses Non-metal Tripod for still and video photography Highway maps and local street maps Tape recorder and cassette tapes for documenting time, location, and camera shots Money for food, gas, and emergencies Protective outerwear and raingear Food and water First aid kit Radio,Weather radio

Personnel: A chase team should always have at least two members, with a third person highly recommended:

Driver Responsible for proper functioning of vehicle(s) Pays attention to the road during travel Determines best route decision.

Navigator Documents vehicle's direction on tape recorders, noting road intersections, landmarks, towns, rivers, etc. Documents stops and starts by odometer reading Documents specific local landmarks at film sites Keeps track of team's location on the map at all times Briefs the driver on best routes Assumes observer's role if not present (see below)

Observer Documents all interesting weather phenomena Checks all equipment prior to chase Readies equipment during chase Records wind speed and direction; takes other readings Helps navigator determine best route

Documentation: Good documentation is essential to the success of the chase. Documentation should include descriptions of the following:

Storm Structure
Tornadic stage of the storm
Local weather
Hail
Lightning

Happy Chasing!

LI Phil