SKYWARN

Despite the elaborate radar and forecasting technology used by the NWS, it is primarily the potential for severe weather that is best determined. The NWS relies on reports from people in and near the weather events to report the actual conditions being experienced on the ground. However, accurate and timely reports from the general public are sometimes difficult to obtain.

To meet this challenge, the NWS regularly trains a network of volunteer weather spotters, who can be activated during times of threatening weather. They are trained to recognize and report flood/flash flooding, winter weather, fire weather, and severe convective weather events, including tornadoes, strong/damaging winds, and hail. This network of trained spotters increases the number of storm reports, while minimizing the potential for false or inaccurate reports.

To become involved in SKYWARN, the following criteria must be met:

1. Be at least 16 years of age
2. Be able to observe and effectively communicate weather events
3. Have access to phone or internet service, or be a licensed amateur radio operator.

More information on the SKYWARN program, including a schedule of training sessions can be found at:

http://www.wrh.noaa.gov/slc/spotter/spotter_info.php