Lans Rothfusz, MIC

I want you to meet some incredible people. You rarely see them in action, although you may hear their voices during severe weather if you own a scanner. Their's is a noble and honorable cause: They selflessly give of their time and their expensive equipment to keep us safe in severe weather. Their dedication and commitment are the stuff of legends, but they prefer to remain behind the scenes. At the merest request for assistance, they will appear at the door and work for hours on end with no concern for personal recompense. Who are these amazing, unsung heroes of this nation? They are the storm spotters who assist the National Weather Service in accomplishing its mission of protecting life and property!

For those who aren't familiar with the role these people play, you should know that storm spotters are a crucial part of the NWS's severe weather operations - not only in Peachtree City, but nationwide. Most storm spotters are trained by the NWS to identify and report conditions associated with severe or damaging storms. Most are amateur radio operators, some are affiliated with local emergency management agencies, and all are valuable to us. It is no overstatement to say these people are the best severe weather detection tools we have. Although the NWS has the world's best array of Doppler radars, satellites, and computers to assist its meteorologists in detecting and forecasting severe weather, there is no better tool than the human eye. That is why storm spotters are so valuable.

HAMS lay new cable

On Saturday, October 28th, I was privileged to witness yet another example of the commitment and quiet heroism of these fine people. In our never-ending drive to improve our severe weather operations, the Peachtree City Weather Forecast Office overhauled its amateur radio equipment. The work day was a grueling, tiring labor of love for the 20 or so people who helped out. Led by Mr. Robert Burton (KD4YDC), the team dug up conduit, replaced deteriorating wires with new cable, installed new antennae, configured new radios, and much more. Several of these folks literally worked from dawn to dusk (and there was still more work to be done by the end of the day). It was a most impressive effort.

I wish you could see these people in action. I'm sure you would then join me in thanking them for all they have done to keep our families safe from the ravages of severe weather. It is no trivial cause they pursue, these anonymous, tireless watchers of the sky. They are truly incredible people.

Previous MIC Messages
"Allow Me to Introduce Myself - Again"

Lans P. Rothfusz
Meteorologist in Charge
(KD5EJN)

lans.rothfusz@noaa.gov