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NWS Gray Spotter Network

Local weather observers are an essential part of the National Weather Service forecast and warning program.

The National Weather Service in Gray relies on weather reports from local weather observers across numerous communities in New Hampshire and western Maine. Our observers help us gauge how severe a storm is, how much snow or rain has fallen, or how quickly our streams and creeks are rising. In addition, the National Weather Service relies on volunteer weather observers who on a daily basis take temperature and precipitation measurements to monitor our climate.

There are 3 main types of volunteer weather observing networks that we use in our region: Storm Spotter, Snow Spotter and the National Weather Service Cooperative Observer Program. The Storm and Snow spotter networks are open to all residents of New Hampshire and western Maine who are interested. These observer programs are voluntary and the level of participation is up to you.

The Cooperative Observer program is the main function of the official climate recordkeeping of the United States of America, and it is only open in certain areas where we need official observers to supplement gaps in the climate network. The Cooperative Observer Program is a little more involved than the basic volunteer programs, and requires a training commitment, and higher level of dedication. We would like to extend our sincere thanks and appreciation to all of our current spotters. Your work has helped us to fulfill our mission which is to provide forecasts and warnings to protect the citizens of New Hampshire and western Maine.