But the deaths of three respected researchers near Oklahoma City have renewed questions over whether the risk of dashing off into violent storms in Tornado Alley is too great regardless of the adrenaline rush.

NPR: Storm Chasing Critical, Profitable And Dangerous

"This is Tornado Alley, " she said.

CNN: One block, two tornadoes: Life in the crosshairs

Huddled inside the hospital, Barnhart says she didn't realize how much damage the tornado had caused until she walked outside and saw the bowling alley across the street -- or saw where the bowling alley used to be.

CNN: Doctor's quick thinking saves patients