Spotter Training

Class Description

The training course introduces the spotter to the NWS warning system and shows the hazards associated with severe thunderstorms. Spotters are shown what to look for when observing thunderstorms. Examples of downburst winds, wall clouds, funnel clouds, and tornadoes are shown and explained. Local severe weather climatology and basic severe weather meteorology are covered as well. Spotters are also instructed on how to report their observations to the NWS.

The class lasts one and one-half hours and features slides, videos, and an interactive slide quiz. The class is free and there are no prerequisites for the course. Class materials are provided.

For those that wish to learn Meteorology more in-depth, an advanced section covers thunderstorm development and life cycle, classifications of thunderstorms, structure of super cell thunderstorms and tornado development. A video section will challenge participants to make the correct call on storm spotting.

The course lasts one half hour and features electronic slides and video. This section is only offered in combination with the main course, not as a stand alone course

We recommend that spotters attend the main course at least every two years.