BILOXI, Mississippi – They’re simply known as ‘Hurricane Hunters,’ but the work done by the men and women of the 403rd Airlift Wing is much more than just a thrilling ride.
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The ‘Hurricane Hunters’ are formally known as the 53rd Weather Recconisance Squadron, a component of the 403rd Wing of the U.S. Air Force.
Their job is to help meteorologists at the National Hurricane Center in Miami forecast tropical storms and hurricanes brewing in the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico. The Hurricane Hunters are the world’s only flying weather reconnaissance unit that operates routinely.
The Hurricane Hunters, a dedicated team of U.S. Air Force Reservists, fly directly into storms to collect real-time information about their structure and intensity. Equipped with advanced instruments, the crew gathers crucial data on wind speed, atmospheric pressure, and storm patterns, which helps meteorologists refine their forecasts and improve early warning systems.
On Wednesday, KPRC 2′s Gage Goulding and Photojournalist Oscar Chavez will join the 403rd Wing Hurricane Hunters on a critical mission to investigate Tropical Storm Helene, which is expected to rapidly intensify into a major hurricane.
As the storm churns over warm ocean waters, this flight will provide vital data to meteorologists tracking its development and potential impact.
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This unique and rare firsthand experience will offer viewers an inside look at the science behind storm tracking and the importance of the Hurricane Hunters’ work in keeping communities safe.
With hurricanes posing significant threats to coastal areas, including right here at home in Houston, the data collected during these flights is instrumental in predicting storm paths and intensities, ultimately aiding emergency response efforts.