Reed Timmer, who appears in the Discovery Channel’s series “Storm Chaser,” was a guest on Jay Leno’s talk show Thursday night.
Timmer, a native of Michigan who now calls Norman home, talked about his storm intercept vehicle – dubbed the Dominator – and what it’s like driving the tank-like vehicle into tornadoes. There were interesting video clips, including one of large hail shattering windows in a chase vehicle, and Timmer’s enthusiasm for what he does was on clear display.
Timmer has written a book, called “Into the Storm,” about his exploits as a storm chaser. He has also been working on his PhD.
Timmer’s appearance on a prominent late-night talk show reflects how storm chasers are achieving a new level of acceptance – even notoriety – in mainstream pop culture. I hope to talk with him soon.
Here is video of Reed in action, pursuing a tornado that touched down in Manitoba, Canada. This video and the above photo from Timmer’s appearance on Leno are from the web site www.TornadoVideos.Net.