2020 SKYWARN Recognition Day Goes Virtual

Amateur radio operators play a vital role in helping the NWS meet its mission for the protection of life and property. They relay valuable information to NWS forecasters during times of severe weather. They also serve as a vital communication link between the NWS and emergency managers when normal communications become inoperative.

Every year in early December, the NWS recognizes the important role amateur radio operators play in helping the NWS meet its mission. This year’s SKYWARN Recognition Day event will begin Saturday, December 5 0000Z UTC (Friday 7 PM EST) and go through 2400 UTC (Saturday 7PM EST).  Unfortunately, due to COVID-19 restrictions, we are unable to invite amateur radio operators into our office this year. However, you can still participate from home by registering here: 

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdjTY8Cpa7b43CdUdgeBGRKcHlUv4FB86wVL7MpO19i2t7MBg/viewform

Once registered, you will receive your SRD spotter ID a few days before the event. During the event, radio operators can exchange call signs, spotter ID’s, location (QTH), signal report, and a brief description of the weather (“sunny”, “partly cloudy”, “mostly cloudy”, “windy”, etc.) with other event participants nationwide.

For those spotters who are not amateur radio operators, you can also participate by sharing weather reports with our office during the event via social media (i.e. Facebook, twitter). Additional information about the event can be found at the SRD webpage https://www.weather.gov/crh/skywarnrecognition

We encourage all those interested to register and look forward to your participation.