Watch Tornado Intercept

Tornado Intercept is a gripping documentary series from National Geographic from 2005 that takes viewers along for the ride as a team of storm chasers attempts to capture unprecedented footage of tornadoes up close. The show follows seasoned meteorologist Josh Wurman and his team as they use cutting-edge mobile technology and a fearless approach to chase down some of the most devastating and explosive tornadoes in North America.

Through the series, viewers are taken along on a journey of discovery and excitement as we witness the high-risk, high-reward work of these chasers as they deploy their cutting-edge Doppler radar instruments, establish observation points, and try to anticipate the unpredictable movements of these massive and terrifying storms. The team is comprised of some of the most experienced and knowledgeable storm chasers in the world, including Wurman himself, a renowned researcher, and professor of atmospheric science at the University of Colorado.

Throughout the documentary, one of the main threads is the effort to deploy the Tornado Intercept Vehicle (TIV), a custom-designed, heavily fortified vehicle that is the brainchild of engineer and veteran storm chaser Sean Casey. The TIV, which is essentially a converted SUV armored with steel plates and hydraulics to hold its ground against the brunt of the tornado's force, is equipped with a wide range of sensors and cameras that allow its crew to capture unprecedented footage of the damage and dynamics of these storms.

As the team sets out to storm-chase across the Great Plains during peak season, we see them encounter some of the most epic and dangerous weather conditions on the planet. From the awe-inspiring fury of massive supercell thunderstorms that spawn multiple tornadoes to the incredible moments of victory, defeat, and close calls that are all part of the chase, Tornado Intercept is packed with the kind of action and drama that will leave you on the edge of your seat.

One of the standout features of the series is its dedication to presenting the science and mechanics of tornadoes and storm formation in a way that is both informative and exciting. Viewers are treated to expert explanations of the roles that wind shear, atmospheric instability, and other factors play in the creation of these storms, and the team's reliance on real-time data analysis is a testament to the importance of scientific research in understanding and predicting extreme weather events. The show also explores the human side of storm-chasing, with interviews and insights into the personalities and motivations of the team members themselves.

While Tornado Intercept is certainly not for the faint of heart, it is also a refreshing departure from sensationalized depictions of storm chasers in popular culture. Rather than relying on overblown scare tactics and spectacle, the show focuses on the scientific work and dedication that drives these intrepid researchers to put themselves in harm's way for the sake of discovery and understanding. For anyone interested in weather science, natural disasters, or just thrilling TV, Tornado Intercept is a must-watch.