Trapped by a Tornado! The Storm Before the Calm Podcast Episode 5 with Conner Stines

Storm Chaser and OU Meteorology Student Conner Stines shares about his passion for weather and recaps his experience of being directly impacted by the Valley View, Texas tornado on May 25, 2024.  

Summary
In this episode of the Storm Before the Calm podcast, host Lori Grace Bailey interviews Connor Stines, a young meteorology student and storm chaser. They discuss Connor's journey into meteorology, his experiences with tornadoes, and a harrowing incident where he and his sister were caught in a tornado while seeking shelter. The conversation delves into the emotional aftermath of the event, the importance of safety in storm chasing, and Connor's aspirations for the future. Throughout the episode, they explore the beauty and danger of storms, the personal growth that comes from chasing them, and the impact of severe weather on communities.

Takeaways

Connor's passion for storms began in childhood.
He switched from nursing to meteorology after a tornado experience.
Safety is paramount when storm chasing.
The tornado incident was a life-changing experience for Connor and his sister.
There were no serious injuries during the tornado incident, thanks to quick thinking.
Connor feels a mix of guilt and gratitude after the tornado incident.
The impact of tornadoes on communities is profound and tragic.
Connor is interested in studying historical perspectives on weather phenomena.
He aims to contribute to meteorology through research and education.
The importance of personal growth and resilience in the face of adversity.
titles
Chasing Storms: A Journey into Meteorology
Caught in the Storm: A Tornado Experience
Sound Bites

"I definitely do carry baggage with that."
"I feel like we were meant to be there."