Discovery Channel's Storm Chasers Died in OK Tornadoes (America, sky, country)

[DRob4JC]

Famed storm chasers among victims of latest Oklahoma tornado outbreak

Three men who had dedicated themselves to furthering the knowledge and science of severe weather were among those killed Friday in a deadly twister that struck El Reno, Oklahoma. Tim Samaras, his son Paul, and their chase partner Carl Young, were well-known within the weather enthusiast community but also known to many Americans following their appearance on a television show.

...
Many know the Samaras’ and Young from their appearances on the Discovery Channel’s television series Storm Chasers. They and their TWISTEX team were often seen putting research instruments into the path of tornadoes to better understand the science behind the violent storms.

...
The exact circumstances of their deaths has not been released. New video taken in Canadian County showed their virtually destroyed vehicle being put on a tow truck looking nothing like the heavy duty truck that it once was.

Many residents and professionals were caught off guard by the tornado as it was a multi-vortex twister – one with multiple funnels. It performed an unusual left-hand turn unexpectedly catching many in its path.

The Weather Channel’s “Tornado Hunt” vehicle with meteorologist Mike Bettes and a film crew were caught in the tornado as well. While all survived, their vehicle was tossed 100 yards into a field.


Sad to hear - but you get near these storms, and sooner or later the odds catch up with you.

[GregW]

These were brave men that died by accident while working for the betterment of all. I call them heros.

[skoro]

Having lived in tornado country, I know how dangerous and unpredictable they can be. These storm chasers served a vital function in a very risky endeavor. They should be held in high regard by all.

[SourD]

It was inevitable. Sorry to hear, but it will happen again, and again, and again.

[whogo]

There is a thin line between courage and stupidity. They crossed it, RIP.

[T-310]

When you play with fire, you are going to get burned.

[mwruckman]

When I heard about this I immediately thought about the movie Twister and how life and art can be one and the same thing. May Dorothy Keep on Flying!!!

[elan]

I was looking at the map where they where, it was just south of I40 on the north side of the storm. Kinda a dangerous side of the storm to be on, it turned right on top of them. I can't think of anything good to say except they died doing what they loved. Most of us will pass in some sterile damn hospital room.

[PullMyFinger]

Originally Posted by GregW

These were brave men that died by accident while working for the betterment of all. I call them heros.

I agree.

[Dale Cooper]

Their truck: