As the dust settled after the whirlwind of excitement that was the 2025 National Storm Chaser Summit (NSCS) in Overland Park, Kansas, the community is buzzing with reflections on what was a landmark event in the world of storm chasing. Held from February 14th to 16th at the Marriott Overland Park, this summit not only lived up to its reputation but exceeded it, according to posts found on X.
A Record Turnout and Vibrant Atmosphere:
The event was marked by a significant turnout, with posts on X describing it as having a "huge turnout" and being a "blast" with both new and familiar faces sharing stories and experiences from the past year. The community's engagement was palpable, showcasing the spirit of camaraderie and passion that defines storm chasers.
Phil Johnson from the Storm Front Freaks podcast reflected saying "It was the largest Summit they’ve had yet with over 600 registrations. Speakers were great."
Celebrating Leadership and Innovation:
Special mention goes to Erik Fox and his team for elevating the summit to new heights. According to posts on X, the media production was described as "sleek" and Erik himself was lauded for his leadership, with one user noting, "He's also a great chase partner: together we penetrated 4 hurricane eyes last year." This acknowledgment highlights the blend of personal achievement and professional excellence that the NSCS celebrates.
Educational and Networking Opportunities:
The summit was not just a gathering but a hub of learning. Attendees had the chance to deepen their understanding through various sessions, which, while not detailed in posts, are known to cover a wide range of topics from scientific principles to cutting-edge technology in storm chasing. The networking opportunities were invaluable, with the event fostering connections that could lead to future collaborations or chase partnerships.
Awards and Recognition:
The NSCS Awards Show, broadcasted live, was a highlight, celebrating the contributions of individuals who have significantly impacted the field of storm chasing. The atmosphere was one of recognition and shared success, further strengthening the community's bond.
Scholarship and Community Support:
The Paul T. Samaras Memorial Scholarship was a key focus, with the summit's activities, including a golf charity event and contests, directly contributing to this cause. This initiative continues to support students who are passionate about entering STEM fields, particularly those related to meteorology and weather science.
Phil Johnson exclaimed "The Saturday night Hall of Fame induction and Awards event was a blast as we provided the first ever LIVE stream commentary of the night hosted by our Meteorologist StormCat5 and Storm chasers Jordan Hall and Edgar ONeal. That can be seen on our YouTube channel."
Looking Back with Gratitude:
The 2025 NSCS in Overland Park was more than just an event; it was a testament to the dedication, innovation, and community spirit of storm chasers. Posts on X reflected a sense of satisfaction and anticipation for what the future holds for this passionate community. The summit not only provided a platform for education and networking but also celebrated the achievements and the enduring spirit of those who chase storms for science, safety, and the sheer love of the craft.
Stay Tuned for More:
As we look back on the 2025 National Storm Chaser Summit, the community is already eager for the next gathering, where new stories will be told, new friendships formed, and new insights into the world of weather will be shared. Keep an eye on social platforms like X for reflections, memories, and announcements about future events, ensuring the spirit of storm chasing continues to thrive.
2026 National Storm Chaser Summit will be held in the Denver, CO metro area. We expect ticket sales to open this Spring!