SKYWARN

Skywarn is a program of the National Weather Service (NWS). Its mission is to collect reports of localized severe weather in the United States. These reports are used to aid forecasters in issuing and verifying severe weather watches and warnings and to improve the forecasting and warning processes and the tools used to collect meteorological data. Reports are also used by local emergency managers and public safety organizations.

Skywarn consists of a network of severe storm spotters who observe weather conditions and make reports of severe weather to their local NWS offices. These spotters are regularly trained by personnel from the local NWS offices. In many areas, classes are conducted each spring in advance of the coming severe weather season. Many SKYWARN spotters use methods to communicate with one another during severe storm events. A notable example of this is through the use of amateur radio nets, which is still an important method since severe weather can significantly disrupt local telecommunications systems. The program began in 1965, and counts over 300,000 active trained spotters

Also, these spotter reports are crucial for effective warnings and can save lives by validating an existing warning or providing the impetus for issuing a new warning. These FREE training sessions last around 2.5 hours and typically are held weekday evenings and some Saturdays. The training is ideal for ham radio and CERT groups, first responders, dispatchers and private citizens interested in getting involved. 

Check out the links below for the latest Skywarn program schedule for southeast Texas. If you live in or near these communities and are interested in becoming a Skywarn Spotter you are invited to attend one of these sessions. For further information on particular programs please contact Dan Reilly at dan.reilly@noaa.gov