In most years, thunderstorms, tornadoes and lightning caused hundreds of injuries and deaths and billions in property and crop damages. To obtain critical weather information, the National Weather Service (NWS) established SKYWARN® with partner organizations.
WC-ARES is a SKYWARN partner organization. During weather events WC-ARES activates a weather net for amateur radio operators to report rainfall rates, strong winds or whatever type of weather report the net control operator is currently requesting.
National Weather Service (NWS) encourages anyone with an interest in public service to join the SKYWARN® program. Please find more information about this program at https://www.weather.gov/skywarn/.
Training
SKYWARN training is provided by National Weather Service, a subsidiary of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
- Austin/San Antonio local public training programs available, check out the Calendar for training sessions
- Training is usually ONCE , sometimes TWICE per year
- https://www.meted.ucar.edu/education_training/course/23
- Read the WC-ARES SKYWARN Storm Spotting Policy
SKYWARN Spotter Guide
Original Source – http://www.la.utexas.edu/users/kimmel/skywarnbook.pdf
SKYWARN Spotter Guide (2023 Edition)
Partners
Austin National Weather Service
- National Weather Service for the Austin and San Antonio areas
- Learn about the SKYWARN Storm Spotter Program
- December 3, 2023 celebrates the contributions volunteers make to the NWS mission, the protection of life and property
- Get recognized!
Lone Star Storm Spotters Network
- Weekly nets are held Mondays at 8 PM
NWS Austin/San Antonio
Check out the current hazards, conditions, and forecasts:
FloodAWARE
Flooding is a top threat in South Central Texas. There are flash flood training sessions. Check their website and sign up when they are made available.
“Skywarn® and the Skywarn® logo are registered trademarks of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, used with permission.”
“Skywarn® and the Skywarn® logo are registered trademarks of the National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, used with permission.”