Final answer:
Hazardous wind shear, characterized by a rapid change in wind speed and/or direction, is a common phenomenon near the ground and poses a risk to aviation. It is closely monitored by meteorologists and storm chasers for safety reasons and to predict severe weather events, such as tornadoes.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hazardous wind shear is indeed commonly encountered near the ground, especially during severe weather events such as thunderstorms. Wind shear refers to the rapid change in wind speed and/or direction over a short distance within the atmosphere. Near the ground, wind shear can affect aircraft performance during takeoff and landing, and is a significant safety concern for aviation. Additionally, wind shear near the surface of the Earth can contribute to the development of severe weather phenomena like tornadoes, which require a rotating environment to form.
Storm chasers and weather forecasters pay close attention to conditions that may indicate the presence of wind shear to better predict and understand tornado formation. One particular area of interest for meteorologists is the prediction and detection of wind shear for safety and to better understand weather patterns. Techniques for measuring wind shear include Doppler radar and pilot reports, which provide vital information for issuing warnings and avoiding hazardous flying conditions.