Unbelievable Images: Storm Chaser's Jaw-Dropping Photos of Extreme Weather

In 2023, it is not difficult to envision that we are experiencing the final days, as catastrophic weather occurrences take place worldwide and persist throughout the year.

According to the UN, there has been an alarming increase in climate-related calamities since the start of the new millennium. From 2000 to 2019, a staggering 3.9 billion individuals were impacted by 6,681 climate-related disasters. This is compared to the 3.2 billion individuals affected by 3,656 such events between 1980 and 1999.

By actively pursuing storms, a brave woman is immersing herself in the midst of some of the most devastating natural forces found on Earth. Through capturing captivating visuals, she aims to contribute to the advancement of our comprehension and forecasting of severe weather occurrences.

Photographing our changing weather

Al-Sayegh, 40, used to engage in landscape and cityscape photography as a hobby prior to venturing into storm-chasing. Her interest in meteorological events was sparked unexpectedly.

In 2011, as she was capturing a landscape, Al-Sayegh found herself captivated by a colossal Haboob dust storm swiftly approaching her location.

The term "Haboob" refers to a cloud formation in the Arabic language. It occurs when a low-level jet originates from the north and causes a dust-lifting phenomenon. The speaker expresses their surprise and fascination with the event, exclaiming, "I was amazed at how it occurred and how it was even possible. Ever since that moment, I become captivated by it."

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The Kuwaiti storm chaser photographing wild weather

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- Source:

CNN

Al-Sayegh has been capturing images of storms that traverse Kuwait and the Arabian Peninsula ever since. In her quest for knowledge, she expresses her curiosity about the occurrence of storms and tornadoes. Despite lacking a meteorological background, Al-Sayegh has observed alterations in weather patterns in the Middle East. Reflecting on her storm chasing experiences, she states, "It broadened my perspective on the world and made me recognize the tangible reality and gravity of climate change."

There have been numerous instances of severe weather in the Middle East and North Africa in recent times. In March and April 2019, heavy floods wreaked havoc in Iran, Iraq, and Syria.

In the previous year, the region experienced sandstorms extending from Dubai to Syria, causing significant damage in Iraq. Experts claim that sandstorms are occurring more frequently than ever before, partially due to climate change. Additionally, this month witnessed devastating flooding in Libya, resulting in approximately 4,000 fatalities, as reported by the UN. The torrential rainfall was brought by Storm Daniel.

Tornadoes have been observed in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Kuwait in the past five or six years, according to Al-Sayegh. While storm chasers can contribute to meteorological knowledge, she mentions that they are not regarded seriously in the Middle East.

Al-Sayegh personally documents her photographs and video footage, comparing them with her prediction data for each chase. Subsequently, she shares this information on social media and with accounts that track global weather events.

Al-Sayegh wants to engage more people in the Middle East with climate change issues. Pictured, a supercell over Kuwait City, 2018.

Sarah Hasan Al-Sayegh

A dangerous pursuit

Storm chasing, a pursuit that requires careful planning, patience, and complex data analysis, comes with risks that should not be underestimated. Mistakes in the field could result in missing out on the excitement or even putting oneself in harm's way. Al-Sayegh emphasizes the importance of having an exit plan in place. She shares an incident from May 31, 2016, when she and fellow storm chaser Mike Olbinski encountered a massive storm structure near Lamesa, Texas. As they were capturing images, they suddenly heard the deafening roar of thunder and felt the electric charge in the air. Reviewing Olbinski's video footage later, they realized that the lightning had struck just a few feet away from them.

Al-Sayegh recognizes that storm chasing is mainly dominated by men, especially in the Gulf region. However, she remains optimistic that her own example will inspire more Arab women to pursue this activity.

"I encourage all girls who aspire to become storm chasers or enter male-dominated professions to simply go for it," Al-Sayegh states. "Do not allow others to discourage you by claiming that you cannot do it due to your gender."

Al-Sayegh has yet to witness a tornado firsthand on the Arabian Peninsula, which is considered the holy grail for storm chasers. However, she has been able to capture breathtaking images of remarkable cloud formations, including a massive "supercell" or "rotating thunderstorm" that bears a resemblance to a flying saucer. Now, she aims to broaden her understanding of meteorology and increase awareness about climate change. Al-Sayegh expresses the desire to convey this message to everyone through her photography and her pursuit of storm chasing.