Tornado hunter pays tribute to deceased storm chasers

SASKATOON – A tornado hunter from Saskatchewan is paying tribute to three veteran storm chasers who died during the latest outbreak of tornadoes in Oklahoma.

Greg Johnson says Tim Samaras was the Wayne Gretzky of storm chasing.

“Tim was one of the kindest, most responsible storm chasers I have ever met,” said Johnson.

“He was a constant source of inspiration for all storm chasers, contributing greatly to my passion for photographing and documenting severe weather and tornadoes. I will forever be grateful for the fact that I was privileged enough to have some amazing discussions with Tim about storm chasing, and always remember the wisdom he shared.”

Samaras, his son Paul and their colleague Carl Young died near El Reno in a tornado Friday with winds up to 265 kilometres per hour.

Johnson says Tim Samaras was a pioneer for 30 years in severe storm research.