Spotters Versus Chasers
The 1996 film Twister spotlighted the world of storm chasing. However, at the same time it sensationalized storm chasing in true Hollywood style.
Storm spotters generally operate in a local area, with their primary purpose being the observation and reporting of severe weather. Storm chasers generally travel, with the primary goal being the observation and documentation of severe weather through pictures and video. Confusion of the two occupations is possible, as there is overlap between both groups' activities. Many spotters do carry photo and video equipment to document severe weather and damage, which may be used as training material for future spotters and historical evidence. Additionally, chasers report storms to aid spotters, and take part in spotter training sessions.
After 1996 with the explosion of storm chaser interest there was a move by many spotter groups to distance themselves from storm chasers for fear of being perceived in a negative light. However, in many cases this was a temporary short-term move to protect against any backlash from emergency management officials. Today, spotters and storm chasers work together in the field when conveying data and generally benefit from one another.
Read more about this topic: Storm Spotting