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Posts And Comments For June 2014

Posted: Jun 30, 2014, 6:47 PM

Chris Collura commented on Olivier Staiger's photo.

Squall LINE maybe?

Posted: Jun 30, 2014, 6:45 PM

Chris Collura commented on Dave Lewison's post.

I worked instead ... made a lot of money.

Posted: Jun 30, 2014, 4:51 PM

Chris Collura updated his status.

Back in Chicago (6/30) ... Linear junkfest storm passing through while we are in a PDS severe thunderstorm watch box!

Posted: Jun 30, 2014, 1:00 PM

Chris Collura commented on George Kourounis's photo.

I remember that was on your bucket list! You are so awesome! !!

Posted: Jun 30, 2014, 12:26 PM

Chris Collura commented on George Kourounis's photo.

Holy freaking HELL ... I guess you'll never take 'go to Hell' in a non literal sense anymore!

Posted: Jun 30, 2014, 7:07 AM

Chris Collura commented on Scott Currens's photo.

CMVDT = Chocolate mousse vehicle death trap.

Posted: Jun 30, 2014, 5:10 AM

Chris Collura commented on Dave Lewison's photo.

Flying into THAT today :)

Posted: Jun 30, 2014, 5:09 AM

Chris Collura commented on iCyclone's photo.

Throwing that scenario into my schedule...

Posted: Jun 29, 2014, 6:04 PM

Chris Collura commented on Skip Talbot's photo.

Rodney! LOL ... You would think?

Posted: Jun 29, 2014, 5:55 PM

Chris Collura commented on Lori Ferguson's photo.

Sinclair gas stations! The pomp n' pantree!

Posted: Jun 29, 2014, 8:07 AM

Chris Collura updated his status.

Late June still happening with storms in the Missouri / Mississippi River Valley areas Sunday and towards Chicago into Monday! Hope my flight back doesn't get delayed ... time to trash a rental?

Posted: Jun 29, 2014, 8:03 AM

Chris Collura commented on Cindy Oanh's photo.

Beautiful !!!!

Posted: Jun 28, 2014, 11:57 PM

Chris Collura commented on Tim Marshall's photo.

I'm in florida till Monday morning ... don't feel so bad.

Posted: Jun 28, 2014, 7:55 PM

Chris Collura commented on Skip Talbot's photo.

Got a brief glimpse of that on a big chase day (may 27 2013) last year. I was like ... "Oh there it is" ... and glad it was not a down day under a 2 week long deathridge.

Posted: Jun 28, 2014, 7:52 PM

Chris Collura updated his status.

Made the long drive from Chicago to south Florida safely. My vehicle will stay there for hurricane chases, if any, as I fly back to my IT job in Chicago Monday (renting vehicle there). Maybe some storms Monday up there too...

Posted: Jun 27, 2014, 11:40 PM

Chris Collura commented on Skip Talbot's post.

Basically if I skydived there it would actually be WARM at 13k ... like in the 60s F !

Posted: Jun 26, 2014, 10:35 AM

Chris Collura commented on Jason Foster's post.

I did both my VHS and beta tapes few years back. Used my Sony FX to convert to firewire and DV AVI into premiere. Then mpeg for the final format (about 5 hour). Did a tape a day until done. I bought a beta VCR on ebay and sold it when I was done for same price!

Posted: Jun 26, 2014, 10:00 AM

Chris Collura commented on Jason Foster's post.

Shoot Jason Foster if you are near Miami I would give you mine ... don't use it anymore...

Posted: Jun 26, 2014, 9:56 AM

Chris Collura commented on George Kourounis's photo.

Awesome ... as Greek as your name implies :)

Posted: Jun 26, 2014, 8:07 AM

Chris Collura commented on Will Wilkens's post.

Biting an opponent ... only in soccer! That's a first!

Posted: Jun 26, 2014, 7:11 AM

Chris Collura commented on Reed Timmer Extreme Meteorologist's link.

Posted: Jun 26, 2014, 7:09 AM

Chris Collura updated his status.

Finally ... My edited video of my encounter with the June 16 Nebraska tornadoes near Stanton and Pilger. ...

http://www.sky-chaser.com/m15vid1.htm

You can also see my chase log on this storm as well as others in 2014 at the link here. ...

http://www.sky-chaser.com/mwcl2014.htm#JUNE13

Posted: Jun 26, 2014, 6:31 AM

Chris Collura commented on Reed Timmer Extreme Meteorologist's link.

Posted: Jun 25, 2014, 11:09 PM

Chris Collura commented on Jason Foster's post.

I have a nachamici deck I dubbed from couple years ago. Works great. Did you try craigslist?

Posted: Jun 25, 2014, 9:53 AM

Chris Collura commented on Reed Timmer Extreme Meteorologist's link.

Posted: Jun 25, 2014, 9:49 AM

Chris Collura commented on Dave Lewison's photo.

It could have been anything ... even parts of a house. This tornado even from a distance had a dense debris cloud (so thick you could not even see the actual tornado funnel inside it) that went all the way to cloud base!

Posted: Jun 24, 2014, 7:44 PM

Chris Collura commented on Colt Forney's post.

Keep TRYing !!!!

Posted: Jun 24, 2014, 2:09 PM

Chris Collura commented on Josh Morgerman's post.

Posted: Jun 24, 2014, 2:07 PM

Chris Collura commented on Doug Kiesling's photo.

Well ... There's your problem!

Posted: Jun 24, 2014, 9:13 AM

Chris Collura commented on Willoughby Owen's photo.

Posted: Jun 23, 2014, 9:28 PM

Chris Collura commented on Caryn Hill's photo.

Posted: Jun 23, 2014, 9:10 PM

Chris Collura commented on Eric Treece's photo.

The fog is insane along the Chicago waterfront ... Was 62 degrees (from 90) when it rolled in. Lake effect!

Posted: Jun 23, 2014, 9:05 PM

Chris Collura commented on Doug Kiesling's photo.

Allsups burrito anyone?

Posted: Jun 23, 2014, 9:04 PM

Chris Collura commented on his own photo.

Hey Stephen Levine ... I jumped from 14,000 feet. The altimiter on my wrist reads just under 8,000 feet.

Posted: Jun 22, 2014, 10:43 AM

Chris Collura commented on Eric Treece's photo.



Posted: Jun 22, 2014, 10:38 AM

Chris Collura commented on Daniel Shaw's photo.

So glad we passed several times and met finally under the chase finale! Safe travels buddy!

Posted: Jun 22, 2014, 10:37 AM

Chris Collura updated his status.

Skydived yesterday 6/21 before the evenings drama. Nice supercell storm in free fall over severe storm watch 340!

Planning on driving down to FL on Friday 6/27 to be there late Saturday as the chase vehicle had its chase bonanza the past few months. Fly back up monday and rent car for job up here going forward.

Posted: Jun 21, 2014, 9:30 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


View of supercell thunderstorm over Illinois while skydiving at Ottawa. Severe thunderstorm watch box #340 was also active at the time! June 21, 2014.

Posted: Jun 21, 2014, 6:45 PM

Chris Collura commented on Eric Treece's post.

Thanks for sharing!!!

Posted: Jun 20, 2014, 6:56 PM

Chris Collura commented on George Kourounis's photo.

Never top old or young to be a kid#

Posted: Jun 20, 2014, 6:45 PM

Chris Collura commented on George Kourounis's photo.

I love Toronto! #!!

Posted: Jun 20, 2014, 2:55 PM

Chris Collura updated his status.

What a work week... Sunday (6/15) I was cap busting in Oklahoma. Monday I was intercepting a violent tornado family in NE Nebraska. Tuesday ... wha? I was sitting back in my office in Chicago working by 8:30 AM! Wednesday and Thursday I was updating Web and taking off the hail grills. Friday I recovered some data ... maybe Saturday I'll go skydiving.

Posted: Jun 20, 2014, 1:38 PM

Chris Collura commented on his own post.

Jeez ... almost done recovering it.

Posted: Jun 20, 2014, 1:37 PM

Chris Collura commented on Caryn Hill's post.

Posted: Jun 20, 2014, 10:40 AM

Chris Collura updated his status.

Two words 1). BACK and 2). UP

Check website this morning and find several days work of chase logs gone.

Why? Well I updated it from one computer, sent it up to FTP, then was SUPPOSED TO pull it down from there. Didn't do that, made small changes (thinking that was the latest file) and FTP'd that one up ... Blowing away the good one ... Ooooeeepsie !!!

Did I back that one up? Nope ... and yes I back up 99% of the time. 1% hurts ey? Was it in cache? Nope ... cache crawled 6/16 and 6/20 ... Gotta start typing it all back in (IF I can remember).

Gonna be a loooong day...

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 9:31 PM

Chris Collura commented on Doug Kiesling's post.

I saw that ... WTF were they thinking?

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 9:14 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Elevated HP supercell storm (note the RFD with shelf cloud below it, de coupled from the storm). This storm produced 3.0 to 3.5" hail near Omaha, Nebraska earlier (around noon on June 16, 2014). Here hs the storm prior to waekening in Iowa.

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 9:14 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Horeseshoe vortex in a cumulus field to the southwest of Sioux City, Iowa and near tyhe Nebraska border. June 16, 2014.

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:45 PM

Chris Collura commented on his own photo.

With that storm, I would not be surprised. Like two EF-4's weren't enough for God to play with... Nature sure was a wiseass this day :(

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Lightning strike, left, and two "violent twins" north of Pilger, NE on June 16.

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Second "Pilger East" tornado crossing Highway 275.

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


First violent tornado lifts a bit (but still broad but weaker) to the left as the second one intensifies a bit more at about 4:35 PM CDT on June 16.

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Second tornado now north of Highway 275.

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


First tornado starting to intensify again.

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Storm wraps up again about 10 miles southwest of Sioux City, Iowa (on Nebraska side). Powerful RFD clear slot (view is to the SSW). Rapid rotation by about 5:30 PM CDT.

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Stanton, NE tornado still barely visible with debris and hail wrap. At this time, new meso is producing tornado to east. June 16, 2014.

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Stanton, Nebraska EF-4 wedge tornado close-up (June 16, 2014).

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Another view of twin tornadoes near Pilger, NE as tour group watches in awe. BOTH rated EF-4 with one to the left possibly stronger. June 16, 2014.

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Now the "violent twins" begin as first tornado passes north of Pilger, NE. Folks with the tour groups got their "money's" worth on this trip! Roughy 4:25 on June 16, looking east on Highway 275.

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Pilger, NE tornado hitting town south of highway 275. Second tornado is starting to its south and southeast.

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Pilger, NE is being hit here. The debris surrounds the tornado giving it an appearance like this. Roughly 4:20 PM CDT on June 16. This was at LEAST EF-4.

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Pilger, NE tornado looking east on Highway 275 out of Stanton, NE on June 16 at about 4:15 PM CDT.

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Debris in wires, Stanton, NE tornado has roped out completely (little needle funnel left in the center of the picture barely visible). June 16, 2014 at about 4:15 PM. Time to head east on Highway 275 towards Pilger, NE.

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Another view of the Stanton, NE tornado roping out from elephant trunk on June 16.

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Stanton, Nebraska EF-4 tornado developing (June 16, 2014).

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Stanton, NE tornado roping out on June 16.

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Pilger, NE tornado rapidly forms to the east while Stanton, NE tornado is still in progress.

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Another view of the Stanton, NE tornado later in it's life-cycle on June 16. Time is roughly 4:05 PM CDT.

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


First tornado cycling back up with second one maxing out in intensity.

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Powerful RFD behind Stanton, NE EF-4 tornado. June 16, 2014.

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Stanton, Nebraska EF-4 tornado starting to occlude / become rain wrapped (June 16, 2014).

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Stanton, Nebraska EF-4 wedge tornado wider shot.

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Pilger, NE tornado getting stronger at about 4:10 to 4:15 PM CDT on June 16.

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


EMS / police vehicle rusing towards Pilger, NE behind the tornadoes at about 4:40 PM or so. June 16, 2014.

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Close-up shot of the "eastern" Pilger, NE tornado "twins". EF-4 damage and winds occurring with this one too. June 16, 2014 at about 4:30 PM CDT.

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Second Pilger, NE EF-4 tornado close-up.

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Closer view of the last tornado from this incredible cyclic supercell storm 7 miles or so SW of Sioux City, Iowa. Tornado lifted after 5:35 PM or so. June 16, 2014.

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Final tornado lasts about 3 minutes 7 miles or so to the SW of Sioux City. Time is about 5:35 PM.

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Debris filled left (remnants of Pilger, NE homes and such) with EF-4 "Pilger East" tornado south of 275. June 16, 2014.

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Wedge weakening and occluding to the west. Now we have 2 new tornadoes to the east, a stove pipe and cone tornado. These lated for about 5-10 minutes, and lifted by about 5:10 PM CDT. June 16, 2014.

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Closer view of the stove pipe tornado between the two.

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Full view of all three from left to right. Occluding wedge, stove pipe, and third eastern tornado forming. Time about 4:55 PM central.

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Massive wedge barely visible to the left and becomign rain-wrapped. Stove pipe forming from thin rope in between the wedge and eastern tornado.

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


New tornado east of the developing rope tornado, both of which are east of the wedge which is becoming rain-wrapped. Time roughly 4:50 to 4:55 PM CDT.

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Thin rope develops east of the occluding wedge (formerly the twin tornadoes) and west of yet another tornado forming to the east!

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


"Composite" wedge tornado forming ... This will continue NE and become rain-wrapped / occluded soon. June 16, 2014.

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Myself taking pictures of the tornadoes. Time roughly 4:45 PM CDT on June 16.

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Owners of destroyed home / farmstead watch in horror. Two tornadoes "Fujiwhara" and begin to combine to violent mile+ wide wedge by 4:50 PM CDT.

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Twin tornadoes again in the field and farmland north of Highway 275, moving NE at about 30 MPH.

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Destroyed farmstead and close up of violent tornado moving off to the NE. Other tornado will move around this one and get absorbed.

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Lightning strike to the far right, farmstead destroyed in foreground. Possible 3rd tornado combining with stove-pipe to the left. Both EF-4 (at least).

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Twin tornadoes still moving north and "Fujiwhara" effect (they rotate around each other). Third possible tornado developing to ther left! Time roughly 4:45 CDT on June 16.

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 4:07 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Annotated image of the view looking north from near Highway 275 north of Pilger, NE on June 16, 2014. Quite possibly 3 tornadoes, but I cannot confirm the ground "contact" on the leftmost "feature".

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 1:06 PM

Chris Collura commented on ChaserTV's photo.

Scary stuff .. positive superbolt?

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 12:58 PM

Chris Collura commented on Meteorologist Tony Laubach's post.

Oh come on Marjie ... Iowa doesn't get tornadoes anymore.

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 12:57 PM

Chris Collura commented on Meteorologist Tony Laubach's post.

Good for that ... the fuel has been the biggest costs. I was lucky to stay well under budget this year thanks to removal of the outrageous airfares from the equation ... my total was about 25 days in separate trips. Roughly $3200 including chasercon.

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 10:29 AM

Chris Collura commented on Rocky Rascovich's post.

Really sad to hear this .. I had no idea he was in bad shape (?)...

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 10:27 AM

Chris Collura commented on Tim Marshall's post.

Really sad and sorry to hear this. He was a great person...

Posted: Jun 19, 2014, 6:17 AM

Chris Collura commented on Scott Hammel's post.

Sometimes 60 to 70 mph inflow and RFD winds still ruin tripoded video. Also ... Sometimes there's just no time to set it up. Shaky video is still better than missing a shot altogether.

Posted: Jun 18, 2014, 10:43 PM

Chris Collura commented on Billy Wade's post.

http://www.sky-chaser.com/schurr.htm

Posted: Jun 18, 2014, 9:53 PM

Chris Collura commented on Doug Kiesling's photo.

Awesome ... what I tell ya? Wait for IT :)

Posted: Jun 18, 2014, 3:07 PM

Chris Collura commented on Mike Theiss's post.

Awesome ... bring back some show n' tell :)

Posted: Jun 18, 2014, 10:47 AM

Chris Collura commented on Dave Lewison's post.

The H5 (500 mb) flow was not much in Bennington, Kansas last year either on May 28. It's the extreme CAPE and low level turning in the lowest km of the atmosphere and boundaries! The EHI for a helicity of 50 and 6000 CAPE is the SAME for 300 helicity and 1000 CAPE.

Posted: Jun 18, 2014, 10:00 AM

Chris Collura commented on Jerry Prsha's post.

Profits ... ugh. Chasing should be about passion. I went out this year not even thinking about nor expecting to make anything. Nor did I rush to post video immediately chewing up bandwidth or being miserable on a sub 56k hotel wifi waiting on an upload for 7 hours. I chase because I love storms. If I make something ... hey great. But the love of money, on the other hand, is the root of all evil.

Posted: Jun 18, 2014, 9:54 AM

Chris Collura commented on Skip Talbot's photo.

Understood! Just no time to post it until we get back! Gonna work on mine as well as going through hundreds of pics later... was not out 6/17 as I had to be back at work but 6/16 goes down as chase NUMBER ONE in my life ... pushing June 12, 2005 in Texas to the number 2 slot !!!

Posted: Jun 18, 2014, 8:55 AM

Chris Collura commented on Jerry Prsha's post.

See in this time to time during my chasing career is horrible to stomach. But it's just the way nature is and hopefully makes us stronger.

I come up with a silly philosophy based on an angry spouse mad over having to clean the house. After seeing Joplin and Moore first hand among others, including hurricane chasing, I say 'no more cleaning' because what that person was complaining about is gone altogether (house, car, even a life).

Now I look at that situation as being privileged to have a home or such (to clean)! And think about that when doing house work or fixing my car. These are ALL GOOD and secondary to such tragic losses that COULD happen.

As for the "angry spouse" ... Just does not realize the rug they're vacuuming or counter top they are scrubbing could wind up in the sky - disintegration with the rest of their house. It can be taken away so appreciate it!

I've seen my share of tragedies. Lost my mom recently to cancer, and seen my best friend from college in the late 90's slowly die over 3 years from diabetes complications. Also nature and her dirty work in a way.

So before anyone gripes over a belated birthday, or family get together, in laws, car repair ... and yes, cleaning ... Think about what you got and be grateful.

Posted: Jun 18, 2014, 8:43 AM

Chris Collura updated his status.

Looks like Nebraska has really made 2014 a year to remember. Don't mess with mid June!!! Working this week but glad to be a, part of Mondays legendary event.

Posted: Jun 18, 2014, 8:26 AM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Interesting "rotating head" off Milwaukee with a squall line extending southwards out of it to the Chicago area on the morning of June 18, 2014.

Posted: Jun 18, 2014, 8:26 AM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Shelf cloud "whales mouth" associated with a squall line west of the Chicago area on the morning of June 18, 2014.

Posted: Jun 18, 2014, 8:08 AM

Chris Collura commented on George Kourounis's post.

Tim Hortons elite coffee club!

Posted: Jun 18, 2014, 6:59 AM

Chris Collura commented on Bill Hark's post.

I heard yesterday from John Thomas III Moon who works in emergency rescue and was told the mother of the young kid who got killed is struggling on life support. This killed my joy and watered my eyes. What do you tell her about her lost child when (or IF) she wakes up. How do you tell her? Remember how fascinated we are about cyclic supercells ... but remember these storms are death.

Posted: Jun 18, 2014, 6:54 AM

Chris Collura commented on John Holt's post.

Posted: Jun 18, 2014, 6:47 AM

Chris Collura commented on Rocky Rascovich's post.

Awesome ... she was such a charming person when we were there one year at your chaser party!

Posted: Jun 17, 2014, 9:02 PM

Chris Collura commented on Stephen Jones's link.

Sigh ... Eyes watering. Sux.

Posted: Jun 17, 2014, 9:01 PM

Chris Collura commented on Colt Forney's post.

Jeez ... been like that back in November when I left Facebook for a few months. Trust me ,,, it'll pass.

Posted: Jun 17, 2014, 7:08 PM

Chris Collura commented on Colt Forney's post.

Don't sweat it ... it happens. We have ups and downs. I scored yesterday after nearly 12k miles of boredom since April 3.

Posted: Jun 17, 2014, 7:06 PM

Chris Collura commented on Scott Bennett's photo.

Insane inflow?

Posted: Jun 17, 2014, 6:47 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Post tornado intercept steak :)

Posted: Jun 17, 2014, 6:45 PM

Chris Collura commented on his own post.

Hey Katt Alvarez ... I meant I'm having it a day late. Last night I was too excited and had long drive. Hehehe!

Posted: Jun 17, 2014, 6:39 PM

Chris Collura commented on Colt Forney's post.

Wasn't the basehunters on the Pilger storm? I thought you headed out.

Posted: Jun 17, 2014, 6:33 PM

Chris Collura updated his status.

First of all ... Pray for the folks in Pilger, Nebraska who fell victim to Monday's terrible twins (dual tornadoes). Still trying to wrap my mind around what I saw there. On par with a surrealistic disaster movie. As for myself I am safely back in Chicago and was actually working at 9:30 AM in my office here! Yes I get around. Decided to treat myself to a T-bone and margarita at the Chili's next to my motel whike watching a little storm well up over Chicago. As for the steak ... Better late than never.

Posted: Jun 17, 2014, 6:22 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Isolated storm over chicago on June 17, 2014.

Posted: Jun 17, 2014, 6:19 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Isolated storm over chicago on June 17, 2014.

Posted: Jun 17, 2014, 3:59 PM

Chris Collura commented on Daniel Shaw's photo.

Easy now to do that now after our T-Fest yesterday ey?

Posted: Jun 17, 2014, 3:54 PM

Chris Collura commented on Mike Umscheid's photo.

Wow ... awesome!! Glad it's over nothing but Sandhills.

Posted: Jun 17, 2014, 2:38 PM

Chris Collura commented on Dave Lewison's post.

Lol ... did manage to safely pull over and get out ... then the 80 mph RFD gust nearly bowled me into the street NW of Pilger. Tripods don't even help there. Had to lean on a fence post as tight as possible to get shots! Crazy!!!

Posted: Jun 17, 2014, 2:34 PM

Chris Collura commented on Daniel Shaw's post.

You sure have a story to tell after that finale ey? Safe travels buddy! So glad I got to meet you in person yesterday (6/16) under the meso of the century! Pray for all in Pilger as well. You did good work!

Posted: Jun 17, 2014, 8:58 AM

Chris Collura commented on Tim Marshall's photo.

Ofcourse two tornadoes occurred together. Usually the old and new mesocyclones having two simultaneously. The thing about June 16 was the symmetry and having two nearly identical violent tornadoes so close together, even Fujiwara around each other. That's very rare indeed...

Posted: Jun 17, 2014, 8:53 AM

Chris Collura commented on In Memory of Tim Samaras Twistex Team's post.

If they KNEW what was going on that would be like laughing at someone suffering in the ER. But I'm sure they were in chase mode and did not know how bad it really was...

Posted: Jun 16, 2014, 8:49 PM

Chris Collura commented on Scott Peake's post.

Posted: Jun 16, 2014, 6:34 PM

Chris Collura commented on Lori Ferguson's post.

All you can eat tornado buffet!

Posted: Jun 16, 2014, 6:26 PM

Chris Collura commented on Dave Lewison's post.

I've been there too. Today I was so close to being suckered north to the MN / IA border junk.

Posted: Jun 16, 2014, 4:48 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Cycles again ... This time 15 miles east of Pilger, NE. June 16, 2014 ... I wonder how much this day will be studied?

Posted: Jun 16, 2014, 4:48 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Two to redeem 2014's tornado less streak I guess! June 16, 2014 in Nebraska. I am sure Tim Samaras and his group would have loved this...

Posted: Jun 16, 2014, 4:45 PM

Chris Collura updated his status.

Unbelievable day in Nebraska for tornadoes ... How can a cyclic supercell DO THAT? Seeing two large and violent tornadoes on the ground at the same time under the "new" meso of the storm WHILE the old meso was roping out on the opposite side of the sky. I am praying for the folks in Pilger, NE as well.

Posted: Jun 16, 2014, 4:25 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Two violent tornadoes near Pilger, Nebraska during the afternoon of June 16, 2014.

Posted: Jun 16, 2014, 2:49 PM


Holy cow!!!

Posted: Jun 16, 2014, 10:59 AM


West of Portsmouth, Iowa .. 1 pm

Posted: Jun 16, 2014, 9:43 AM

Chris Collura commented on Daniel Shaw's photo.



Posted: Jun 15, 2014, 10:03 PM

Chris Collura commented on Doug Kiesling's post.

Last day before working in chicago tuesday ... I'm going!

Posted: Jun 15, 2014, 4:29 PM

Chris Collura commented on Scott Hammel's photo.

That thing over took me on Highway 81 heading south into KS (from NE) at about 12:30 AM with 70 MPH gusts. Luckily a "soft spot" of it passed over Salina, so we had power.

Posted: Jun 15, 2014, 4:27 PM

Chris Collura updated his status.

Appears I am cap-busting here in Oklahoma (I'm just east of Enid) and should be headed north by sunset if nothing happens (getting more and more unlikely). Need to be able to go north fast for tomorrow (I-35 NE to KC tomorrow then north to W Iowa / NE Nebraska...

Posted: Jun 15, 2014, 9:18 AM

Chris Collura updated his status.

Can't ignore the 5% outlook south towards the OK / KS border ... Headed south towards Wichita and N/C OK today. Tomorrow blast back north towards Iowa and Nebraska...

Posted: Jun 15, 2014, 8:55 AM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Northeast of Smith Center, Kansas - June 14, 2014.

Posted: Jun 15, 2014, 8:55 AM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Who's dog is this? Anyway he stopped and said hello in front of a classic supercell storm northeast of Smith Center, Kansas - June 14, 2014.

Posted: Jun 15, 2014, 8:55 AM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Wider view of one of a few brief touchdowns north of Adams County, NE and west of Harvard, NE illuminated by continuous lightning (June 14 at roughly 10 PM CDT).

Posted: Jun 15, 2014, 8:55 AM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


One of a few brief touchdowns north of Adams County, NE and west of Harvard, NE illuminated by continuous lightning (June 14 at roughly 10 PM CDT).

Posted: Jun 15, 2014, 8:55 AM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Myself again in my "office" for the day storm chasing (June 14, 2014).

Posted: Jun 14, 2014, 10:02 PM


Tornado during the night near Harvard, Nebraska.

Posted: Jun 14, 2014, 5:05 PM


It's starting...

Posted: Jun 14, 2014, 10:21 AM

Chris Collura updated his status.

Sitting here at nice little kitchen style restaurant here in York, Nebraska and waiting to head south / west for storms later .. I think I'll unpack the hail guards while I'm at it.

Posted: Jun 14, 2014, 10:16 AM

Chris Collura commented on Tim Marshall's photo.

Here in York, NE so we may cross paths!

Posted: Jun 14, 2014, 6:55 AM

Chris Collura commented on Doug Kiesling's photo.

Iowa used to get tornadoes? Really? All I see is "silos and smokestacks" each time I drive across Iowa (5th time yesterday!)

Posted: Jun 14, 2014, 6:53 AM

Chris Collura commented on Dave Lewison's post.

2014 is cursed by surging fronts and hurry-up and "get it before the dog eats it" kind of chasing (rapid MCS upscale evolution). Not fun.

Posted: Jun 14, 2014, 6:01 AM

Chris Collura commented on Stephen Barabas's photo.

Posted: Jun 14, 2014, 5:59 AM

Chris Collura commented on Dave Lewison's post.

Zicam is the best. It does work but you need to take it right at the first sign of a cold ... the dry back towards the nose in the throat feeling (the OMG start of 2 weeks of misery feeling) / precold.

Posted: Jun 14, 2014, 12:25 AM

Chris Collura updated his status.

Just arrived late in Lincoln, Nebraska after spending 3 hours looking for hotel rooms! At least I worked my way deeper into tomorrow's chase targets. Time to sleep!

Posted: Jun 13, 2014, 10:11 AM

Chris Collura commented on George Kourounis's post.

Stay off QEW as 9 lanes each side on 401 ain't any better!

Posted: Jun 13, 2014, 8:16 AM

Chris Collura commented on Matt Crowther's post.

Yeah ... tough decision. For me I'm in chicago so I'll follow it back east. Then during week maybe another setup.

Posted: Jun 13, 2014, 7:47 AM

Chris Collura commented on George Kourounis's post.

Come on down! !!!!

Posted: Jun 13, 2014, 7:45 AM

Chris Collura commented on Tim Marshall's photo.

Scott Blair probably was in there somewhere if there was big hail ;)

Posted: Jun 13, 2014, 5:05 AM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Hummm ... I guess I know where I'm going this Saturday (June 14)! Somewhere in the 45 percent - Duh!

Posted: Jun 12, 2014, 9:23 PM

Chris Collura commented on Jason Foster's photo.

I remember Jason Foster! You did have some. I just finished their crumb cake last week. Lots here in chicago too!

Posted: Jun 12, 2014, 8:09 PM

Chris Collura commented on Jason Foster's photo.

My weakness is their "crumb cake" ... so good!

Posted: Jun 12, 2014, 3:00 PM

Chris Collura commented on Verne Carlson's photo.

As Bin Jovi would sing: "You give chasers a bad name..." bow-dow-bow!!

Posted: Jun 12, 2014, 1:19 PM

Chris Collura commented on Jaden Lam Phan's post.

Hey there ... let me check and I will see if I can find anyone.

Posted: Jun 12, 2014, 11:59 AM

Chris Collura commented on Rocky Rascovich's post.

Throw a rock or long branch to knock the snake away then pick up the keys.

Posted: Jun 12, 2014, 7:42 AM

Chris Collura updated his status.

Ok ... Weekend's coming up and a typical June storm chase opportunity seems to be on tap from S Dakota to Nebraska and Iowa. I should be headed out in that general direction late Friday returning to Chicago as early as Sunday! One lousy tornado and I'll be happy! !!

Posted: Jun 12, 2014, 7:28 AM

Chris Collura commented on Melanie Lorraine Metz's post.

Besides storms ... lost my mom about 8 months ago. I feel such losses to the bone now ... so sorry.

Posted: Jun 12, 2014, 7:09 AM

Chris Collura commented on Melanie Lorraine Metz's post.

Yes ... June 12 near Spur Texas was a day to remember, and up there as the #1 chase in my life! I flew out from FL on that setup ... after spending 3 weeks in May in marginal setups, only spend 3 days in Texas, and was a dozen tornadoes from that single cyclic storm! !!

Posted: Jun 12, 2014, 7:06 AM

Chris Collura commented on Scott Currens's photo.

I'll try to get to the head of it. May be heading out Friday right after work for the long trip to chase Saturday. Then follow it back east.

Posted: Jun 11, 2014, 12:49 PM

Chris Collura commented on ChaserTV's post.

El Nino DISPLACES storms indeed!

Posted: Jun 11, 2014, 12:48 PM

Chris Collura commented on iCyclone's photo.

Recall from the 80's ... when the eastern Pacific rages through the whole alphabet by October and the Atlantic basin hasn't even started yet!

Posted: Jun 10, 2014, 7:41 AM

Chris Collura commented on Tulsa's Channel 8 - KTUL's link.

The ppl that have guns and shoot innocent people lately should have at it at a person like THIS. I would start with his toes and work my way up...

Posted: Jun 9, 2014, 11:50 PM

Chris Collura likes a video on YouTube.

YouTubesketchy on a jet skihttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4GflxyE29vA

Posted: Jun 9, 2014, 1:20 PM

Chris Collura commented on Reed Timmer Extreme Meteorologist's photo.

Posted: Jun 9, 2014, 11:43 AM

Chris Collura commented on Elizabeth Nelson's post.

Without trucks ... everything stops!

Posted: Jun 9, 2014, 11:38 AM

Chris Collura commented on Scott Bennett's photo.

MDT to high risk. .. no return.

Posted: Jun 9, 2014, 11:37 AM

Chris Collura commented on Evan Bookbinder's photo.

Posted: Jun 9, 2014, 10:32 AM

Chris Collura commented on Tim Marshall's photo.

Ahhhh Wedgefest 95 ... that was a video tradition to watch it back on the late 90's or early 2000s before Jeff Gammons and my group would head out on our 2+ week long trips each late May. Seemed like watching it though jinxed a death ridge on us every time those days :(

Posted: Jun 9, 2014, 9:55 AM

Chris Collura commented on Reed Timmer Extreme Meteorologist's photo.

Posted: Jun 9, 2014, 9:50 AM


Always sad seeing a fellow co-worker being let go (or fired). Seems like every little thing ends something nice - such as your income. Glad it wasn't me ... Just helped clean his desk and pack up his "box". learned to always have a financial "cushion" just in case with 9/11 being the eye opener. Remember a job is a privilege. Yes ... a privilege!

Posted: Jun 8, 2014, 6:01 PM

Chris Collura commented on Skip Talbot's photo.

Kind of reminds me of April 12 ... no tornadoes but I see 2+ inch hail 1 MILE north of where I'm staying on Illinois. Did not see hail that big for the REST of my season!!!!

Posted: Jun 8, 2014, 5:07 PM

Chris Collura commented on Reed Timmer Extreme Meteorologist's post.

Posted: Jun 8, 2014, 4:58 PM

Chris Collura commented on Reed Timmer Extreme Meteorologist's photo.

Posted: Jun 8, 2014, 4:54 PM

Chris Collura commented on Reed Timmer Extreme Meteorologist's post.

Posted: Jun 8, 2014, 2:13 PM

Chris Collura updated his status.

That feeling of storm chasing "agitated" feeling is back. Cannot head out again until after June 11 cuz of work responsibilities. Had "May been May" like it was supposed to be none of this would have happened...

Posted: Jun 8, 2014, 1:37 PM

Chris Collura commented on Eric Treece's photo.

How do you think I feel? You know when May gets hosed and June screws...

Posted: Jun 8, 2014, 9:46 AM

Chris Collura commented on Skip Talbot's photo.

Yup ... 2 hours south of me (could have caught that). LOL ... Everybody else's in New Mexico.

Posted: Jun 7, 2014, 12:52 PM

Chris Collura commented on Tony Mesias's post.

Posted: Jun 7, 2014, 8:58 AM

Chris Collura commented on Daniel Shaw's photo.

Finally ..

Posted: Jun 7, 2014, 8:02 AM

Chris Collura commented on Roger Hill's post.

http://www.sky-chaser.com/america.htm#MURPHL

Posted: Jun 7, 2014, 7:59 AM

Chris Collura commented on Cedar Point's post.

http://www.sky-chaser.com/america.htm#MURPHL

Posted: Jun 7, 2014, 7:56 AM

Chris Collura commented on Dave Lewison's post.

And 10 to 15% hatched was usually an HP junk tease the other times :(

Posted: Jun 7, 2014, 7:50 AM

Chris Collura commented on Cedar Point's post.

The park is already dealing with lost revenue ... that's tough enough. Yes .. plans dashed sucks too...

Posted: Jun 6, 2014, 7:37 PM

Chris Collura commented on George Takei's link.

Damn ... I'd try that#

Posted: Jun 6, 2014, 7:35 PM

Chris Collura commented on Scott Hammel's post.

Jeez sucks ... You have my job luck ;) 2014 ugh.

Posted: Jun 6, 2014, 7:31 PM

Chris Collura commented on Lori Ferguson's photo.

But probably not so silent outside your vehicle :/

Posted: Jun 6, 2014, 6:44 PM

Chris Collura commented on Charles Edwards's photo.

The wonders of orographics ;-) You pulled it off in a year where we forgot what these look like! Congrats...

Posted: Jun 4, 2014, 5:13 PM

Chris Collura commented on Caryn Hill's photo.

Posted: Jun 4, 2014, 5:12 PM

Chris Collura commented on Melanie Lorraine Metz's photo.

I was INSIDE that? Oh boy!

Posted: Jun 4, 2014, 5:08 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Myself chasing storms in central Nebraska on June 3, 2014 in moderate / high risk.

Posted: Jun 4, 2014, 5:08 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Intense RFD in supercell storm northwest of Ord, Nebraska before becoming undercut by outflow - June 3, 2014.

Posted: Jun 4, 2014, 5:08 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Interesting funnel and gustnado developing on the southern side of an outflow dominant supercell storm in Greely County, NE - June 3, 2014.

Posted: Jun 4, 2014, 5:08 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Another gustnado / weak tornado on the southern side of an outflow dominant HP supercell storm in Greely County, NE - June 3, 2014.

Posted: Jun 4, 2014, 5:08 PM

Chris Collura added a new photo.


Think of THIS next time you are stuck in traffic! This is about 4:30 PM in rural Nebraska waiting for storms - June 3, 2014.

Posted: Jun 4, 2014, 11:50 AM

Chris Collura commented on Melanie Lorraine Metz's photo.

You sure that's not a picture from 2010 to 2013 of a wedge that you are trying to pass as a wall cloud in 2014? Lol...

Posted: Jun 4, 2014, 11:48 AM

Chris Collura updated his status.

Back in chicago by noon today (6/4) Wednesday and working here after a long spot high risk / NO return chase in nebraska yesterday. Glad to be back here.

Posted: Jun 4, 2014, 11:17 AM

Chris Collura commented on Verne Carlson's photo.

Shouldn't need this vehicle until may 2015.

Posted: Jun 4, 2014, 4:02 AM

Chris Collura commented on Doug Kiesling's post.

El puto y cara de pinga tambien ... Carajo.

Posted: Jun 3, 2014, 7:01 PM

Chris Collura commented on Verne Carlson's photo.

Surprised not at the ND man camp...

Posted: Jun 3, 2014, 6:48 PM

Chris Collura commented on his own post.

Oh and another thing .... construction... stop closing entire roads and interchanges! !!! It's fine the way it is...

Posted: Jun 3, 2014, 6:35 PM

Chris Collura updated his status.

Just about to say screw chasing ... at least 2014. Tell El Nino to go to hell.

Posted: Jun 3, 2014, 6:04 PM

Chris Collura commented on Scott Bennett's post.

We're doing it right but the atmosphere is wrong

Posted: Jun 3, 2014, 6:03 PM

Chris Collura commented on Dave Lewison's post.

What a fucked up year. I lost with all you folks today.

Posted: Jun 3, 2014, 5:53 PM

Chris Collura commented on Charles Edwards's post.

Total junkfest. It's been real guys.

Posted: Jun 3, 2014, 8:06 AM

Chris Collura commented on Skip Talbot's photo.

Yea ... Oh yeah!!! Hate that ... Always passing at 66 MPH (passing another at 65). Then they just cut left, no warning, no signal. I've seen ppl still have enough time to actually pass the 66 MPH truck on the RIGHT before it actually passes the slower one. I-70 and I-80 are HELL for this BS.

Posted: Jun 3, 2014, 6:36 AM

Chris Collura commented on Verne Carlson's post.

Targeting around an O'niel to Norfolk line ... More towards Norfolk.

Posted: Jun 2, 2014, 11:28 PM

Chris Collura updated his status.

Good night folks after 500+ Mile drive from Chicago to west side of Omaha. Glad to be here ... now in range for whatever tomorrow throws at us!

Posted: Jun 2, 2014, 10:17 AM

Chris Collura updated his status.

Currently in chicago now after waking up at 4 am in S FL this morning and flying in. Booked room in Omaha NE late tonight after midnight arriving from long drive after work. Not even tired yet. Too excited. Passion driving me. Returning to chicago sometime on wednesday. Looks like a stern chase.

Posted: Jun 2, 2014, 10:13 AM

Chris Collura commented on Verne Carlson's photo.

Speaking of a LONG hodograph, ey?

Posted: Jun 2, 2014, 2:39 AM

Chris Collura commented on Verne Carlson's photo.

Big beautiful low ... only to sag slowly SOUTH and eventually give El Paso, Texas a weak supercell when whatevers left of it ejects east. Booohoohoo

Posted: Jun 2, 2014, 2:34 AM

Chris Collura commented on Matt Sellers's post.

Chicago ... the Toronto sister city ... that explains the hockey.

Posted: Jun 2, 2014, 2:33 AM

Chris Collura updated his status.

Busy week ahead ... working and chasing all mixed together. Hope to see some of you folks in Nebraska for Tuesdays big event. Heading to Omaha late tonight after work day in chicago.

Posted: Jun 1, 2014, 6:11 PM


Pre chasing grilling in south florida... chicken legs and ribs ... NOM NOM :)

Posted: Jun 1, 2014, 5:58 PM

Chris Collura commented on Dave Lewison's post.

Tuesday ... I'm supposed to be working on Chicago that day? Nope ... heading to Omaha tomorrow night and figuring it all out on tuesday. Hopefully run into you all!

Posted: Jun 1, 2014, 2:39 PM

Chris Collura updated his status.

One last shot for tornadoes today (sunday) before evolution to MCS. I'm returning to chicago early Monday and planning on making the trip out for Tuesdays setup. Let's see!

Posted: Jun 1, 2014, 2:24 PM

Chris Collura commented on Daniel Shaw's photo.

Nice ... may 19 again!

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