Have you ever dreamed of chasing storms or uncovering the real science behind extreme weather? Maybe you’re fascinated by how Hollywood brings epic storms to life, or curious about the role of women in disasters. If so, our International Women’s Day webinar, recorded on 5 March 2025, is a must-watch. Featuring experts from meteorology, gender and disaster studies, filmmaking, and real-life storm chasing, this conversation delves into the thrilling world of Twister and its highly anticipated sequel, Twisters.
Our panelists bring unique perspectives to the discussion:
- Dr Margaret Moreton – Gender and Disaster Australia
- Dr Mika Peace – The Bureau of Meteorology
- Dr Tara Lomax – Australian Film Television and Radio School
- Rosie Kew – Real-Life Storm Chaser
From dissecting the real-world science of tornadoes to exploring Hollywood’s creative interpretation of extreme weather, the webinar offers a fascinating mix of fact and fiction.
The Science Behind the Spectacle
Hollywood loves a dramatic storm, but how accurate are the on-screen tornadoes of Twister and Twisters? Dr Mika Peace, meteorologist at the Bureau of Meteorology, explains how real-world tornadoes form, why they remain one of nature’s greatest mysteries, and how modern forecasting techniques help communities prepare for extreme weather events.
While Twister took creative liberties in depicting tornado formation and behaviour, it also helped spark public interest in meteorology. Advances in weather prediction have come a long way since the film’s 1996 release, with today’s technology offering better tools to track and warn against severe storms. However, as Dr Peace explains, tornadoes remain unpredictable, making storm chasing both a thrilling and dangerous endeavour.
Chasing Storms in Real Life
Speaking of storm chasing, few people know the adrenaline rush of pursuing tornadoes better than Rosie Kew. As a real-life storm chaser, Rosie shares firsthand experiences of tracking severe storms, capturing incredible footage, and the real risks involved. Unlike the high-octane Hollywood version of storm chasing—where heroes drive straight into the heart of a tornado—actual storm chasers rely on data, patience, and careful risk assessment to stay safe.
Hollywood and the Art of Disaster
Disaster films have captivated audiences for decades, but why are we so drawn to them? Dr Tara Lomax, an expert in film studies, explores how movies like Twister and Twisters craft their spectacular storms. Special effects, sound design, and cinematography all play a role in making these disasters feel real, but it’s the human stories at the heart of these films that truly engage audiences.
Disaster films also reflect cultural anxieties—about climate change, technological failures, and even personal resilience. While Twister focused on the adventurous spirit of storm chasers, Twisters promises to bring fresh perspectives to the genre, incorporating modern advancements in meteorology and visual effects.
Women in Disasters – On and Off Screen
Extreme weather doesn’t just happen in the movies. Disasters disproportionately impact women, yet they remain underrepresented in emergency management, meteorology, and disaster science. Dr Margaret Moreton from Gender and Disaster Australia highlights the importance of gender-inclusive approaches in disaster response and recovery.
Women bring vital skills and perspectives to disaster preparedness and resilience-building. Whether in leadership roles or on the ground in crisis situations, their contributions help shape more effective and equitable disaster response strategies. The webinar underscores how increasing women’s participation in meteorology, filmmaking, and emergency management isn’t just about representation—it’s about improving outcomes for communities affected by disasters.
Watch, Learn, and Get Involved
Whether you’re fascinated by extreme weather, disaster resilience, or the magic of filmmaking, this discussion made one thing clear: women are leading in all these fields, and their stories deserve to be told.
Watch our webinar replay now on YouTube: https://youtu.be/fqtdA4d18zE
You can watch Twister on Foxtel Now and Paramount Plus, and catch Twisters on Apple TV.
To take part in International Women’s Day activities, visit:
🔗 United Nations – International Women’s Day
🔗 International Women’s Day Official Site
🔗 UN Women Australia – International Women’s Day
Let’s celebrate the women shaping science, storytelling, and disaster resilience—on and off the screen. 🌪️🎬
