What is SKYWARN and why does it matter to Your Community?

Jan 17

2 min read

What Is SKYWARN?

SKYWARN® is a volunteer storm spotter program coordinated by the National Weather Service (NWS). Trained volunteers across the United States watch for severe weather and report real-time observations, such as hail size, wind damage, flooding, and tornado sightings, back to the NWS and local public safety officials. These “ground truth” reports help forecasters confirm radar data and issue more accurate and timely warnings that save lives and property.

How SKYWARN Works

SKYWARN spotters aren’t storm chasers; they’re community volunteers positioned in towns, neighborhoods, farms, and workplaces who observe the weather around them. When severe weather is occurring, spotters provide information that radar can’t see, like localized hail or wind damage on the ground.

Volunteers can report conditions via:

Phone contact with local emergency management or NWS offices
Online storm report submission tools
Social media platforms (if supported by your local NWS office)

Who Can Be a Spotter?

Anyone with an interest in public service and a willingness to stay safe is welcome to join. Typical spotters include:

Public safety personnel (fire, law enforcement, EMS)
Amateur radio operators
Hospital or school staff
Concerned citizens and weather enthusiasts
You do not need advanced experience, just training and a commitment to safety.

Training: Learn, Report, and Stay Safe

Training is the heart of the SKYWARN program. The National Weather Service and local partners host free training sessions, often annually, before the severe weather season. These cover:

Basics of thunderstorm development and structure
Identifying weather features
What and how to report observations
Safety guidelines for spotters
Classes typically last about 1–2 hours and are open to the public.

Tip: Contact your local emergency management office or NWS forecast office for upcoming training dates, whether in-person or online.

Stay Safe – Spot Smart

Safety is the #1 priority for all SKYWARN volunteers. Spotters are taught how to choose safe locations and to never put themselves or others at risk just to observe conditions. They learn to:

Avoid driving into dangerous areas
Maintain situational awareness
Have escape routes and communication plans
Follow established reporting procedures safely
Safety guidelines like this help ensure spotting supports public safety without creating additional hazards.

Why SKYWARN Matters

Every year, severe weather, from thunderstorms and hail to floods and tornadoes, impacts communities nationwide. SKYWARN volunteers contribute sightings that allow the NWS to issue more accurate and timely warnings, helping residents get critical minutes of lead time during dangerous weather events. That community contribution makes SKYWARN one of the first lines of defense in weather safety.

Get Involved

Interested in becoming a SKYWARN spotter or want to learn more?

Visit your local National Weather Service office’s website
Contact your county emergency management office

Your eyes on the sky could help save lives in your community.