First Coast News Meteorologist and Storm Expert Lauren Rautenkranz got the chance to check a pretty cool thing off of her bucket list Saturday. She and FCN photographer, Jeff Renfroe, took flight with Hurricane Hunters to investigate the eye of Hurricane Dorian.
The crew of two left Jacksonville first thing Saturday morning to travel by car over six hours to Biloxi, Mississippi.
They boarded a C-130J Super Hercules for a scheduled flight at 1 p.m. CDT out of the Keesler Air Force Base. The 12+ hour mission was to gather critical data for forecasters.
Follow along with their updates below:
09/01/19 around 8 p.m.
09/01/19 4:22 a.m. After landing "What a wild ride!"
08/31/19 4 p.m. "And we're off!"
08/31/19 3:26 p.m.
08/31/19 2:56 p.m.
08/31/19 2:55 p.m.
08/31/19 2:12 p.m.
08/31/19 1:30 p.m.
08/31/19 12 p.m.
“Hurricane Hunter missions can last more than 12 hours. I was told to wear comfortable, casual clothes and close-toed shoes. I was also told to bring snacks that are easy to keep and also a sweater because the flight can get really chilly. I’ve even been told some folks get some shut-eye on the way to or from a storm, but I’m not sure I’ll be able to sleep a wink I’m so thrilled for this opportunity!”
08/31/19 9 a.m.
08/31/19 6 a.m.
Hurricane Hunters are able to send back pertinent information like air pressure, wind speed and direction, water and air temperature related to hurricanes.
This data will help meteorologists fine-tune Dorian’s track and possible intensity as it nears the Southeast coast this weekend.
Follow Lauren on Twitter @WeatherLauren for more.