How do I go about finding chase partners?

[Teri Mooney]

I'm new to the Kansas City area. I don't know anyone except family and they aren't interested. I've been chasing storms for around 14 years. I posted on announcements, but never have received a response. Any ideas would be appreciated. Thanks.

 

[Ben Holcomb]

Hi Teri,

The best place is the thread you posted on. It doesn't look like many others from the KC area have posted. We're trying to ramp up traffic to the site and I have a feeling we will see more traffic as soon as we get our first setup or two in the next month or so.

 

[Jeremy Den Hartog]

Hey Teri,
Ben is correct, also spotter training or some of the other severe weather events (ChaserCon, etc) will sometimes help you find someone to chase with too.

Some advice though:

- I wouldn't just bring any random person wanting to go with. Most people don't realize what chasing is "really" like and sitting in a vehicle for long hours with someone you are unfamiliar with could cause issues (is the person annoying for example, etc). Also, some people literally freak out when they see a tornado (or they THINK they are seeing a tornado if they are inexperienced) so keep that in mind.

- I would make sure its agreed upon how expenses will be split up before you chase together. Some people are just looking for a free ride to see a tornado. I wouldn't let them do that (obviously).

- Another big thing to keep in mind is you "could" run into legal problems if something bad were to happen while chasing together. I'm not a lawyer so my advice stops there...just be aware it could be an issue.

- Are they going to be driving? I would make sure you know for sure they have a valid drivers license and insurance.

- What do they bring to the table? Have they chased at all or at least completed spotter training? I would make sure they are aware of their "role" for the day. You don't want to bring super-noob who suddenly thinks he's an expert and decides the best course of action is to punch the core of a storm when they have no clue what they are doing.

Anyhow, not trying to preach (just trying to be helpful). Good luck, hope you find someone in your area to chase with

 

[Kelley Williamson]

In the past I have always chased by myself. This year I an going to chase harder and longer. With more miles and more days on the road come more expense. I thought this year if someone wanted to chase with me and help on expenses I will have a seat. Just PM me.

 

[Robert Forry]

Hey Teri,
Ben is correct, also spotter training or some of the other severe weather events (ChaserCon, etc) will sometimes help you find someone to chase with too.

Some advice though:

- I wouldn't just bring any random person wanting to go with. Most people don't realize what chasing is "really" like and sitting in a vehicle for long hours with someone you are unfamiliar with could cause issues (is the person annoying for example, etc). Also, some people literally freak out when they see a tornado (or they THINK they are seeing a tornado if they are inexperienced) so keep that in mind.

- I would make sure its agreed upon how expenses will be split up before you chase together. Some people are just looking for a free ride to see a tornado. I wouldn't let them do that (obviously).

- Another big thing to keep in mind is you "could" run into legal problems if something bad were to happen while chasing together. I'm not a lawyer so my advice stops there...just be aware it could be an issue.

- Are they going to be driving? I would make sure you know for sure they have a valid drivers license and insurance.

- What do they bring to the table? Have they chased at all or at least completed spotter training? I would make sure they are aware of their "role" for the day. You don't want to bring super-noob who suddenly thinks he's an expert and decides the best course of action is to punch the core of a storm when they have no clue what they are doing.

Anyhow, not trying to preach (just trying to be helpful). Good luck, hope you find someone in your area to chase with

Truth!!! And great advice both here, and your Guide.