“Heading straight into the eye …” The NOAA Hurricane Hunters releasing video of a flight mission into Hurricane Melissa “to collect critical data that helps improve forecasts and research,” according to their social media post. The NOAA reported Monday that one of their flights was forced to cut its mission short and temporarily land for “inspection and maintenance” after encountering stronger-than-normal turbulence. The U.S. Air Force Reserve’s Hurricane Hunters issued a similar announcement Tu

HURRICANE HUNTERS FLY INTO THE EYE OF CATEGORY 5 STORM MELISSA The U.S. Air Force Reserve’s 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron flew into the eye of Hurricane Melissa on Monday (Oct. 27) to collect crucial data for the National Hurricane Center. With winds reaching 175 mph (282 kph), the Category 5 storm threatens Jamaica with catastrophic damage as it nears landfall. 📷: Reuters | GMA Public Affairs

Today, we flew missions into Tropical Storm Imelda to gather critical data for the National Hurricane Center. The WC-130J crews are tracking the storm’s strength, wind speeds and pressure to improve forecasts and help keep communities prepared. #readynow | AF Reserve Hurricane Hunters