Weather Observation

by John E. Farley

Since 1996, I have taken to the road to observe and document severe weather events, across a wide variety of locations in the Midwest, Plains, and West. Reports of my observations beginning in 2007 and continuing to this year appear below. Reports and photographic documentation of the storms I observed from 1996 through 2006 can be found here.

Keep in mind that observing storms can be dangerous, and it should not be attempted until after one has taken the time to learn how to do it safely, and to learn as much as possible about severe weather. An excellent resource for learning about storm observation can be found here. I recommend particular attention to the FAQ and the "About Storm Chasing" links.



In light of some problems associated with storm chasing and severe weather observation, I have written an essay entitled Some Thoughts on the Current State of Severe Weather Observation, and a Plea to Observe Safely. If you are new to storm observation, considering taking it up, or concerned or curious about its current state, PLEASE read this essay. I wrote this several years ago, but in light of recent events, it still seems relevant.


The Stormy Skies Photo Galleries are now ready for viewing. See photos of funnel clouds, hail, lightning, rainbows, shelf clouds, supercells, tornadoes, wall clouds, and winter weather. You can now access the best of my storm photography in one place!

Note: These galleries are best viewed with a reasonably fast internet connection. Also - prints of all of the pictures in the gallery are available for purchase. If you see one you would like to buy or would like more information on purchasing any of these photos, please email me.



Severe Weather Observations

Observations of Severe Storms and Interesting Weather Phenomena:

2023

2022

2021

2020

2019

2018

2017

2016

2015

2014

2013

2012

2011

2010

2009

2008

2007


Winter Weather Observations

Observations of Major Winter Storms and Interesting Weather Phenomena:

2023-24

2021-22

2020-21

2019-20

2018-19

2017-18

2016-17

2015-16

2014-15

2013-14

2012-13

2011-12

2010-11

2009-10

2008-09

2007-08

2006-07


Other photos I have taken, many of them weather-themed, can be seen here.


Severe Weather Video

Video of some severe weather that I have observed can be seen here.




This page last updated SEptember 18, 2023