National Weather Service United States Department of Commerce

Severe Thunderstorms and Heavy Rainfall in the Southern Plains; Heat Continues in the West

Strong to severe thunderstorms may bring areas of excessive rainfall and flooding over parts of the southern Plains today through Friday. Hot to dangerously hot temperatures are forecast across portions of the Pacific Northwest and southern Great Basin today. Gusty winds, dry, and hot conditions will bring critical fire weather to parts of central Washington state today. Read More >

   

Severe Storm Spotter Training

 

January 20, 2025:  Storm spotter classes have been scheduled for this upcoming season. Please check a list of classes below. 

 


 

 

 

(YouTube Spotter Talk - 11 minutes)

 

The class provides a basic understanding of thunderstorm structure, spotting techniques, reporting criteria, safety information and procedures. The video shown above includes highlights of topics that will be covered in the presentations. There are also online spotter courses that are available from the link below as well as an online field guide and cloud chart that can be downloaded for free.

  • Additional classes may be added. Please check back for updates.
  • All classes last around 1 to 1 1/2 hours.
  • Classes are free and open to the public.
  • Classes are appropriate for all ages. Ages 10 and up will likely get the most out of the training.
  • Pre-registration is NOT required unless specifically noted for a particular class.  
  • Classes are scheduled in collaboration with county emergency management officials.
  • You may attend a class in any location, offered by any NWS office, regardless of where you live.  

Weather Spotter's Field Guide - pdf file 

Skywatcher Cloud Chart - pdf file

Skywarn Spotter Online Training Modules