REPORTS
FROM THE FIELD
Despite great advances in computer technology,
sometimes nothing quite compares to a first-hand report. We know where its
raining, and have 
computer
guidance on when or where it should flood, but we cannot tell if flooding has
already starting. Likewise, we know if its windy, but cannot tell if the winds
have toppled trees, caused power outages, or damaged structures. However, since
we're tasked with protecting life and property, we need to know this type of
information. Thus, we have a network of volunteers called Skywarn spotters.
Class participants take a 3 hour long introductory course offered by
the NWS during which they are instructed on how to
spot severe weather, and when to report items like thunderstorm damage and
snowfall accumulations. If you are interested in learning more about our
Skywarn Program, visit our
Skywarn page by clicking
here.
Obviously, all of our Skywarn
observers are weather enthusiasts. A good percentage of them are also amateur
radio operators. During large or major weather events, a ham radio operator
comes to the office to work the console pictured above, which is located at the
edge of the operations floor. Thus, we gain additional information on the
weather's impact in real time, helping us make warning decisions.
If you are interested in information about our Ham
Radio program, visit our Ham Radio page by clicking
here.
