NOAA's National Weather Service Weather Forecast Office

What is SKYWARN?

SKYWARN is part of the National Weather Service's warning program designed to establish a network of volunteers trained in the detection and reporting of life-threatening storms. Although advances in computers and communication networks have made great strides over the past several years, only one instrument can detect tornadoes with complete certainty - the human eye. We rely heavily on the reports that we receive from our 1300 pairs of our spotters eyes!

What will I learn?

By taking the SKYWARN spotter course you will learn about the meteorological dynamics involved in thunderstorm development, and ingredients necessary to make a thunderstorm severe or tornadic. You will also learn what features to look for when viewing thunder - storms. The reports that we receive from our spotters may help us to save the lives of your neighbors, family members, and even complete strangers in the next town.

Tell me More!

This year's presentation will again feature an UPDATED multimedia presentation. You will see awesome photography and exciting video. The class usually lasts about an hour and a half. Due to the fast pace of technology and the new understanding of thunderstorms, we ask that you try to attend a SKYWARN class annually. The ID number you will be given will only be valid for four years. The classes are FREE and open to everyone interested.