"Hurricane Hunters," a new documentary series debuting tonight on The Weather Channel, is going to be catnip for weather geeks -- especially right now as Hurricane season is starting.
The "Hurricane Hunters" featured in the series are the Air Force 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron based out of Biloxi, MS. Their job is to fly planes into hurricanes to gather data from the eye of storm, risking their lives to help meteorologists better understand those storms and better predict storm paths.
The first episode follows the Hunters as they fly into Hurricane Irene in August of 2011. Cameras mounted inside and outside their planes capture all the tension and some pretty spectacular views.
Along with the stunning visuals, there's plenty of explanatory science on how hurricanes work and the art of flying into these storms in the least dangerous way.
The six 30-minute episodes of "Hurricane Hunters" will air on Monday nights at 9 on The Weather Channel.
Pictured above: Maj. Sean Cross, pilot, 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron's Hurricane Hunters, served as the flight commander on this particular mission into Hurricane Irene. All rights reserved by The Weather Channel Public Relations
Brooke Cain isn't always proud of the number of hours she logs in front of the TV, but her loss of brain cells can be your gain. From reality shows to sitcoms to the more serious stuff, Brooke keeps her DVR smoking so that she can help keep you in the know. Brooke also tweets for Happiness is a Warm TV (you can follow