Because storm chasing primarily began in the United States, for reasons to study the behaviour of tornadoes, storm chasers seem to have a relatively high acceptance in the community. In the United States, literally thousands of chasers embark on storm chasing expeditions across Tornado Alley. Anyone from storm enthusiasts to researchers and even storm chasing tour companies who are paid by their tourists in the hope of experiencing a tornado sighting!
Since the 1990s, storm chasing spread to other countries such as Canada and Australia as well as several countries across Europe. Of these, some storm chasers also make their treck across to Tornado Alley in search of supercells and tornadoes. The influence of the movie block buster Twister had its impact across the globe but certainly the internet revolution enhanced the storm chasing movement.
In Australia I would estimate perhaps a hundred or so storm chasers who might venture out during the season. Very few storm chasers existed prior to Twister aired across Australia. The development of Australia Severe Weather website certainly made significant grounds in providing a balanced, positive and quite accurate foundation for storm chasing in Australia.