Available nowcasters this spring...

[Martin North]

The potential nowcaster needs to be aware of what they're committing themselves to. If you've never nowcasted before, keep in mind that it usually ends up being something that you have to devote your entire afternoon or evening to. It's hard to give good information by just taking a call every hour and looking at radar for a couple of minutes. You'll need good radar, good maps and warning information available at all times to keep track of where your chaser is and what is happening around them. In other words, it won't be easy to do it while you're at work or otherwise doing something else.

If you're planning on armchairing the event anyway, then it's usually not a problem because you're already keeping up with what's going on. But nowcasting requires a level of commitment to the person on the other end and maybe a little bit of liability. They are trusting you for information on where to go, and if you don't pass on good information in a timely manner, they could end up in a hail core or worse. Sometimes the safety of the chaser on the other end of the line is partly in your hands, meaning you'll need to pay close attention to what is going on and in some cases stay on the line with them many times throughout an event. This is especially true at night.

Will every event be this involved for a nowcaster? Probably not - but be aware that it usually involves more time and dedication that you originally intended. During an outbreak, a nowcaster may not be able to leave their desk all evening.
Maybe this is a break-off topic that needs its own thread, but it's at least worth a mention.

Yes Dan, I think this does need it's own thread. Very good post btw...

I'll start as Nowcasters: Your Commitments & Responsibilities? thread and transfer this and a couple of others over.

 

[Martin North]

Done, it's in Weather and chasing folks.

http://www.stormtrack.org/forum/showthread.php?p=163854#post163854

 

[Bill Schintler]

Nowcasting spring 2008

When I am not chasing nor busy with work (usually flexible hours), I will be available for nowcasting on an event-by-event basis. PM for contact information. Advance notice preferred. I have (virtually) unlimited long distance minutes and am skilled at forecasting, nowcasting, and radar interpretation. I've been nowcasting for several years, and I'd be happy to help when my schedule permits it, as I'm usually looking at data on a continuous basis anyway when WX events are unfolding.

- bill

 

[Bob Schafer]

My chasing stomping grounds are mostly W of I-35. If you're heading out and E of 35, I'm probably available, and you're welcome to PM me for nowcasting. I can't ever guarantee availability (who can?), but I'm always eager to help out whenever possible. Advance notice is always appreciated..... by all nowcasters!

 

[Brian Stertz]

My free time this year is going to be at an absolute premium to either chase or deal with family/work commitments. So unfortunately my nowcasting availability is going to be slim to none. I will be available for very select events. PM me if help is needed and I may be able to assist from time to time.

 

[Mike Johnston]

I anticipate being generally available for nowcasting this spring. Living on the east coast, my workday ends at 4:00pm ET and I am able to monitor the setup throughout the day. I've nowcasted for chasers for several years and would be happy to help anyone out again this year.

 

[Dick McGowan]

I won't be chasing tomorrow, if anyone needs a nowcaster for Saturday, February 16th...pm me (earlier the better) and I will be glad to help.

 

[Tim Purington]

I will be available after 3 pm today (4/10/08) for any chasers that need nowcasting.

 

[Bob Schafer]

I am available to nowcast all day. PM me if you'd like my help.