Steps to Becoming A Skywarn Spotter

The National Weather Service encourages anyone with an interest in public service and access to communication, such as amateur radio, to participate as a Skywarn storm spotter. Volunteers include police and fire personnel, dispatchers, EMS workers, public utility workers and other concerned private citizens. Individuals affiliated with hospitals, schools, churches, nursing homes or who have a responsibility for protecting others are also encouraged to become a spotter.
 

1. Complete the 2 Online National Skywarn Training Modules.
   The courses are “The Role of the Skywarn Spotter” and “Skywarn Spotter Convective Basics”. The courses will require you to register with the Meted Training Site.
2. Review our basic spotter training in the video below:

3. Participate in one of our spotter training webinars
   or attend one of our regional training sessions in your area. Check our latest training schedule for dates and locations.
4. Register with Spotter Network.
   This is not required, but Spotter Network gives you additional training and other methods for contacting us.
5. For information about joining a local spotter network, contact your local Emergency Management office.
   Your local and county officials can provide additional information about how spotter groups are organized in your community. Many spotter groups in the small communities in West-Central Texas are led by local volunteer firefighters with assistance from law enforcement, amateur radio operators, and other community volunteers.  Also, you may connect with a local amateur radio club in Abilene, Brady, Brownwood, San Angelo and Sweetwater, please click on any one of the communities that is nearest to you.