Severe Thunderstorms in the Central U.S.; Upper Level Low Over California

Scattered severe thunderstorms are possible today across central and eastern Minnesota, Iowa, and western Wisconsin. A few tornadoes, isolated very large hail, and damaging winds may occur. An upper level low will help trigger scattered thunderstorms over portions of central and southern California today along with a few inches of snow in the central Sierra Nevadas. Read More >

Cooperative Observer Program

Cooperative Observer Background

Becoming a Cooperative Observer

Becoming an NWS Cooperative Observer volunteer requires the following:

Dedication to public service

Attention to detail

Ability to lean and perform daily duties

Willingness to allow NWS to place measuring instruments on your property

Willingness to allow at least one visit per year from an NWS representative

Additionally, the following capabilities are useful but are not mandatory:

Ownership of a personal computer with modem and familiarity with its basic uses

Established internet access

Information on equipment used by NWS Cooperative Observers

If you are selected to become an official NWS Cooperative Station, the NWS will provide you with the training and supervision you will need to perform your duties. Depending on your stations instrumentation, your site will be visited once or twice every 12 months, and more often if unscheduled maintenance or training updates are required.

If you are interested in becoming an NWS Cooperative Observer in the NWS Omaha County Warning Area, please contact Joni Brand, Observations Program Leader at the NWS Omaha office, or call the office at (402) 359-5166.

Cooperative Observer Reports

Latest Regional Summary of Observations (RTP) (Daily summary of COOP observations are included in the 1100 AM and 700 PM RTP)
Enter the WXCoder III Site, the newest internet based reporting system for COOP Observers

Cooperative Forms

B23: CCooperative Station Inspection: PDF and Word
WS Form 10-13-3 (formerly B-24):
Rating Sheet for Cooperative Station Observer Awards: PDF and Word
B30: Cooperative Agreement with Observer: PDF and Word
B43: Request for Establishment or Change in Status of Cooperative Station: PDF and Word
B91: Record of River and Climatological Observations: PDF, Word
B92: Record of Evaporation and Climatological Observations: PDF and Word
Official Cooperative Observer Site Form: PDF and Word