The Sidney Sun-Telegraph - Serving proudly since 1873 as the beautiful Nebraska Panhandle's first newspaper

KEARNEY – Nathan Moore can tell you the exact number of tornadoes he's seen in his life.

It's 216, including 15 this year.

"That's like your trophy," Moore said. "It's your reward. You definitely keep track."

Moore, who works in information technology services at the University of Nebraska at Kearney, has been recording thunderstorms and other natural phenomena for nearly three decades.

What started as an on-and-off hobby is now a second profession for the 47-year-old.

"I love seeing what Mother Nature can do," Moore said. "I just love it."

Raised in the Chicago suburb of Downers Grove, I...