A tropical storm quickly takes shape over the Atlantic Ocean, a furiously whirling dervish with a skirt of thunderstorms. But just as quickly the storm is challenged by dozens of National Weather Service planes, which sally forth from East Coast airstrips like fighters on the tail of an enemy bomber. Attacking from above and below, the planes fire off a barrage of esoteric weapons that sap the strength of the raging winds in the developing eye wall.

Ammunition expended, the lead pilot flashes a thumbs-up, confident that once again she and her team of veteran storm chasers have prevented a hurricane...