Our Commitment to Safety

Safety is our top priority.

Tempest Tours has developed formal, written safety guidelines to account for all risks. Our safety guidelines are reviewed and updated regularly.

  • No safety incidents in 26 years of operation. 

  • The Tempest Tours staff is comprised primarily of meteorologists, trained storm spotters, and first responders.

  • Our staff receives a rigorous formal safety orientation annually prior to our tour operations.

  • We use heavy-duty vans modified to carry a maximum of only 8 passengers total (including guests and staff) for improved safety and comfort.

  • Our tours are restricted to a maximum of two vans each to improve safety. 

  • Fleet vehicles are carefully checked by a certified automotive technician prior to each season. Special attention is given to brakes, belts, hoses, wipers, tires, and all other safety features.

  • We supply DMV data for all our drivers to our insurance underwriter for approval prior to operations.

  • Speeding or violation of traffic safety laws is strictly prohibited. 

  • Staff drivers must maintain a safe personal driving record to be employed by Tempest Tours.

  • Staff must maintain a safe distance from any hazard. We do not drive into tornadoes.

  • Tempest Tours guests are required to view a safety video prior to each tour. 

  • Guests and staff are required to wear seat belts at all times. 

  • Smoking and alcohol are prohibited in our vehicles.

  • Staff and guests are required to stay clear of roadways when stopped. 

  • The company has established a guest advisory board to report any possible concerns directly to administration.

  • Tempest Tours is a long-time member of the National Tour Association who requires professional conduct from its members and minimum commercial insurance coverage.

  • Tempest Tours assists the National Weather Service regularly with storm reports to help improve public safety.

  • Tempest Tours is a National Weather Service Weather Ready Nation (WRN) Ambassador.

  • Staff are FCC licensed radio operators who have received formal storm spotter training from the National Weather Service and regularly contribute to training themselves.