As both a NWS trained Storm Spotter, as well as a "hobbyist" storm chaser, I take offense lumping those of us WITH training, and who contribute to the safety of the public, in with the pure thrill seekers who jsut do it to do it. Granted, there is an element of thrill, even for the most seasoned chaser, and yes, I always take cameras etc, however, my primary goal when chasing is to INFORM THE NWS, of what I am seeing, so as to possibly save a life. Even 1 life is worth the time and expense I have in doing so. I personally use GRLevel3 during my chase, with a cellular internet connection. I am not a big chase rwho goes out west and whatnot, just local to my hometown area...but I feel like I have made a difference in spotting potential trouble, and reporting it.
Don't make blanket statements unless you are informed. And you will not be informed until you actually attend a spotter class.
What is interesting is the NWS actually discourages chasing in the classes, but the advanced class not so much....more of a "if they don't discourage it they could get sued" type of deal I imagine...
