2013

            SKYWARN Spotter Training

The National Weather Service in Taunton MA gives SKYWARN spotter training
at several locations in Southern New England.  Anyone interested is welcome
to attend.  The training session is free of charge, and there is no need to 
register.  However, participants will be asked to fill out a short form 
during the class.

Official Spotter numbers will be given to anyone who attends a training and
is at least 16 years of age or older.  People younger than 16 who desire a 
spotter number, and who can present special circumstances will be evaluated 
on a case-by-case basis. 

Relationship to COMET training:  We understand that some Skywarn training 
courses are available through COMET (the Cooperative Program for Operational 
Meteorolog, Education, and Training)...entitled "Role of the Skywarn Spotter" 
and "Skywarn Convective Basics."  While these are instructive, they do not meet 
the requirements to become a NWS-Taunton Skywarn Spotter.  In order to attain a 
Taunton Skywarn ID #, it is necessary to attend one of the in-person training 
classes offered, usually in the spring and early summer.  Once you are a trained 
spotter, then additional recertification training can be done online.

Any questions, please contact Bill Babcock.