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SKYWARNTM

The NWS SKYWARN system is a volunteer network of storm spotters, which number over 230,000 nationally. These volunteers help keep their local communities safe by providing timely and accurate reports of severe weather to the National Weather Service. NWS encourages anyone with an interest in public service and access to communication, such HAM radio, to join the SKYWARN program. Volunteers include police and fire personnel, dispatchers, EMS workers, public utility workers, and other concerned private citizens. Individuals affiliated with hospitals, schools, churches, nursing homes or who have a responsibility for protecting others are also encouraged to become a spotter.

The NWS in Salt Lake City is currently using UI-View 32 and Precision Mapping 7.0 software in order to communicate over amateur radio. You can send your weather reports to the NWS (KC0SKU) over 144.39 MHz. What we are interested in are snowfall and rainfall reports, as well as severe weather (hail, wind gusts in excess of 50 mph, tornadoes, flash flooding, or weather-related property damage).

Because there are only a limited number of licensed amateur radio operators at the Salt Lake City forecast office, you may not receive a response when sending a message via packet radio. Rest assured however, that your reports are being received at the forecast office, are of great value to our forecasters, and are much appreciated!

Many SKYWARN groups rely on amateur (HAM) radio to communicate vital weather information. When power or phone service is disrupted, often as a result of violent weather, amateur radio operators are able to maintain communications. For information on amateur radio groups related to the SKYWARN program in the NWS Salt Lake City forecast area, contact:

Jerry Wellman, Utah ARRL Section Committee Chairman

Darwin Woodruff, Salt Lake County A.R.E.S. Emergency Coordinator

SKYWARN Recognition Day 2006 Held at Salt Lake City Forecast Office

More information on the SKYWARN program can be obtained from the National SKYWARN Page.

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