SKYWARN^TM is a nationwide network of volunteer storm spotters trained by the National Weather Service (NWS) to report significant weather. Anyone with an interest in weather is welcome to participate. To become a trained storm spotter, you need to attend a storm training session, offered at various times and places across the Morristown County Warning Area.

Why SKYWARN^TM?

The National Weather Service's mission is to protect lives and property with safety being the top priority. When weather conditions are favorable for severe thunderstorms or tornadoes to develop, a severe thunderstorm or tornado watch is issued. A severe thunderstorm or tornado warning is issued when severe weather has been reported by a SKYWARN^TM spotter or indicated by Doppler radar. SKYWARN^TM volunteers become the NWS's and local Emergency Management's eyes and ears, helping them to provide the public with better weather watch and warning services.

Who will activate SKYWARN^TM?

The NWS and/or the local emergency management authorities may activate the SKYWARN^TM net whenever there is a threat of severe weather or when the NWS issues a severe thunderstorm or tornado watch. In this case, information may be relayed through amateur radio repeaters. Localized events may be phoned directly to the NWS and/or local emergency management.

Where will SKYWARN^TM observations be taken?

SKYWARN^TM reports are relayed from on the road, while at work, or at your home. It is important not to jeopardize your own safety by placing yourself in the path of severe weather while participating in SKYWARN^TM.

SKYWARN^TM and Amateur Radio Operators

HAM radio operators have a special place in the SKYWARN^TM program. NWS offices have HAM equipment on site. SKYWARN^TM nets run by the volunteer amateur radio net control operators allow for reports to be directly heard at National Weather Service offices.

How do I join SKYWARN^TM?

For additional information on SKYWARN^TM including times and locations of storm spotter training sessions, please e-mail Howard Waldron (Warning Coordination Meteorologist) or phone (423) 586-8706, Monday-Friday, 8 AM to 4 PM.

Where can I find educational materials on storm spotting?

For storm spotters, there is the A Comprehensive Glossary of Weather Terms for Storm Spotters and two spotter guides: Basic Spotters' Field Guide (in PDF format) and Advanced Spotters' Field Guide (in PDF format).