Storm Watchers (offtopic)

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landonjensen

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How come alot of storm watchers / chasers have amber lights? Ive always seen shows with then but always questioned myself?
 

pfish

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Probably the same reason catering trucks have them.
 

iMONITOR

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landonjensen said:
How come alot of storm watchers / chasers have amber lights? Ive always seen shows with then but always questioned myself?

It's part of the Whacker-Factor! They are under the illusion that if they have those lights they're exempt form normal driving laws. If they use them in Michigan they can get a ticket, as they are illegal.
 

rdale

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Not always - it adds a little safety when you're pulled over in places that aren't always the best to be pulled over at... Plus some spots in Michigan it is okay, we've talked to the local MSP post and county-mounties and they are fine.
 

iMONITOR

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rdale said:
Not always - it adds a little safety when you're pulled over in places that aren't always the best to be pulled over at... Plus some spots in Michigan it is okay, we've talked to the local MSP post and county-mounties and they are fine.

They are most likely making an exception for you, because of your profession, and because you are professional, and mature in your actions.

I think if they were to encounter someone acting like they do in the storm-chaser movies, there would be a definite problem.
 
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DaveNF2G

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Somehow I don't think the police are going to bother a storm chaser during an actual severe thunderstorm or tornado touchdown. They will have more important things to worry about.

Amber lights make sense if you're running around in poor visibility on purpose.
 

rdale

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I was referring to our Skywarn spotters - I never asked ;>

I think if they see someone operating in any way unsafe while running amber lights, they'll make sure to visit you at some point after the storm.

- Rob
 

pacrat551

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In Texas, we use amber lights for safety. Most Law enforcement agencies in Central Texas are familair with our chase team and recognize us (Team has been around for 20+ years). Each vehicle has a decal with the name of the team posted. We do not "light up" until a warning or potential warning (tornado) has been issued by the NWS.
 

Signal3and2

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As stated, the people who DO have lights use them for safety reasons. Don't know if you've ever been out during a tornado, but you can't see :D. I'd say most professional and high-end amatuer chasers don't have lights. At least from what I've seen.
 

kc2nll

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Amber light

I use one for bad weather and when assigned to a fixed post during an assignment-using a single strobe light makes more sense than using your vehicle flashers and/or your parking lights since that will drain the battery faster-a single strobe unit can be left on all day without draining your battery. I agree-if local law enforcement views you as a professional spotter/chaser, they won't bother you if you have one-it's like a tow truck light-there are no special provisions for people using amber lights-it's merely a warning light
 
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rdale

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It's not really like a tow truck light - those are written into law so police don't have the 'option' to allow them...
 

NeFire242

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kc2nll said:
I use one for bad weather and when assigned to a fixed post during an assignment-using a single strobe light makes more sense than using your vehicle flashers and/or your parking lights since that will drain the battery faster-a single strobe unit can be left on all day without draining your battery.

Hopefully if you're at an assignment for NWS you don't shut your vehicle off if its getting too bad for your location. You should be ready to flee the area on a moments notice.
 

rdale

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firefgtr said:
why do people get all emotional over "lights" i don't get it

I'm no pschologist - but if you tell us what emotions you feel when you see the lights we can probably help you out...
 
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