Skywarn is a cooperative program between the National Weather Service (NWS) and trained volunteers. The skywarn concept was developed in the 1970s to help train weather spotters that ultimately saves lifes and property every year since. Even though the NWS has radars and other ways to predict and view the weather, they must rely on reports from spotters to determine the sevarity of the weather.
The NWS relies heavily on the participation of Amateur Radio operators to report weather situations. The ARRL and the NWS have a memorandum of understanding that indicates the ARRL will encourage local Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) groups to come to the aid of the NWS when requested. Amateurs provide communication of severe weather often directly to the NWS office.
Often after severe weather hits an area Amateurs will also be asked to provide damage assesment, communication links between red cross shelters, or help the local government agencies with communication. At the beginning of December the NWS recognizes the work of the Radio Amateurs by holding Skywarn Recoginition day. This day recognizes the Amateurs continued support and volunterism showcased every day during the severe weather season. Every year Amateurs donate thousands of hours of service to the NWS and the communties in their area.
Skywarn Resources
National Weather Service-Grand Rapids (GRR)
National Skywarn Homepage
Skywarn Net Report Form (Word Document)
