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Since
the program started in the 1970s, the information provided by SKYWARN
spotters, coupled with Doppler radar technology, improved satellite and
other data, has enabled NWS to issue more timely and accurate warnings
for tornadoes, severe thunderstorms and flash floods.
SKYWARN storm
spotters are part of the ranks of citizens who form the Nation's first
line of defense against severe weather. There can be no finer reward than
to know that their efforts have given communities the precious gift of
time--seconds and minutes that can help save lives.
Who
is Eligible?
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.
How
Can I Get Involved?
NWS has 122 local
Weather Forecast Offices, each with a Warning Coordination Meteorologist,
who is responsible for administering the SKYWARN program in their local
area. Training is conducted at these local offices and covers:
- Basics of thunderstorm
development
- Fundamentals of storm
structure
- Identifying potential
severe weather features
- Information to report
- How to report
information
- Basic severe weather
safety
Classes are free and
typically are about two hours long. To find out when a
SKYWARN class will be conducted in local your area, contact
your local Warning Coordination Meteorologist at: www.stormready.noaa.gov/contact.htm
www.weather.gov/skywarn
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