Storm spotter information for the National Weather Service Forecast Office

Severe Thunderstorms in the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest; Critical Fire Weather in the West; Dangerous Heat in the Central and Eastern U.S.

Severe thunderstorms are likely today across the northern Plains and into the upper Mississippi Valley. Gusty winds and dry conditions will result in widespread critical fire weather through Saturday across parts of the Four Corners region and the Great Basin. A significant and dangerous heat wave will expand from the Central U.S. into the Eastern U.S this weekend through much of next week. 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.

Severe Thunderstorms in the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest; Critical Fire Weather in the West; Dangerous Heat in the Central and Eastern U.S.

Storm spotter information for the National Weather Service Forecast Office - Omaha, NE

Severe Storm Spotter Training