The long-awaited sequel to the 1996 hit movie Twister has stormed its way to Cinema Twin Theatre under the title Twisters. With a fresh cast of characters, fans and storm chasers alike are eager to see if this new installment will have the same impact on the world of storm chasing as the original did.
When Twister first hit the screens, it brought the adrenaline-fueled world of storm chasing into the spotlight, igniting a passion for meteorology and tornado hunting in viewers worldwide. It inspired a generation of amateur storm chasers to hit the road, hoping to witness the raw power of tornadoes firsthand. Now, in the era of smartphones, social media, and heightened awareness of climate change, Twisters has the potential to make an even bigger splash.
Storm chaser Brandon Caza recalls the original film’s influence vividly. “It had a profound effect on my initial interest in tornadoes, storm chasing, and tornado research,” he says. “110% it did.”
Social media platforms like YouTube and X (formerly Twitter) have already made storm chasing more accessible and visible than ever before. A blockbuster sequel like Twisters could amplify this trend, potentially drawing even more enthusiasts into the thrilling, yet dangerous, pursuit.
Storm chaser Shane Turgeon highlights the double-edged sword of social media's role in storm chasing. “Social media has a tremendous influence on people, for better and for worse,” he notes. While much of the content online promotes safe practices, some posts showcase risky behavior in pursuit of likes and shares.
However, seasoned storm chasers and meteorologists are sounding the alarm, warning that Twisters might glamorize storm chasing in a way that overlooks the real dangers involved. The rise of inexperienced chasers without proper safety knowledge is a growing concern within the community, as more individuals venture into severe weather situations without fully grasping the risks.
“People are going to be in for a rude awakening when they realize storm chasing is actually sitting around for hours with only a short burst of excitement,” says Turgeon, debunking the Hollywood portrayal. “Most people aren’t ripping through fields in giant pickup trucks, jumping through the air to get in the path of a tornado.”
One aspect the original film got right, according to many chasers, is the sense of camaraderie within the storm-chasing community. Despite differing beliefs and backgrounds, tornadoes and severe weather have a unique way of bringing people together.
Whether Twisters will spark a new wave of enthusiasts, raise awareness about severe weather science, or prompt important conversations about safety is still up in the air. The Canadian storm-chasing community is ready to welcome newcomers but urges caution.
“Storm chasing is a dangerous activity if you don’t know what you’re doing,” warns Caza. “There’s so much going on in a thunderstorm—wind, hail, debris, and tornadoes. These storms can kill you if you get in a bad spot.”
For those interested in storm chasing, there are safer ways to get started. The Canadian storm-chasing community offers a great opportunity to connect, learn, and gain experience. Joining experienced chasers can be invaluable before venturing out on your own. Safety is a key reason why people chase storms—it’s not just about the adrenaline. Many chasers are the first on the scene when disaster strikes, reporting crucial information to Environment and Climate Change Canada and often helping in the aftermath.