National Weather Service, Lincoln IL

CoCoRaHS Observations and Information

What is CoCoRaHS?

CoCoRaHS stands for the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail & Snow network. It is a unique, non-profit, community-based network of volunteers of all ages and backgrounds working together to measure and map precipitation (rain, snow and hail). The network originated with the Colorado Climate Center at Colorado State University in 1998 thanks in part to a devastating flood that occurred in the previous year. Since then, the network has expanded rapidly with over 6,500+ observers in 27 states.

Can I participate?

Absolutely! The ultimate goal of the program is to have one observer per square mile in urban/suburban areas and one observer every 36 square miles in rural areas. Everyone can help, young, old, and in-between. The only requirements are an enthusiasm for watching and reporting weather conditions and a desire to learn more about how weather can effect and impact our lives.

Once trained, volunteers collect data using low cost measuring tools such as a 4-inch diameter high capacity rain gage (pictured right), snow boards to measure snow, and aluminum foil-wrapped Styrofoam hail pads in some states. Information on purchasing a rain gage can be found via the CoCoRaHS main page.

How do I join?

Either click on the “Join CoCoRaHS” image to the right or visit the CoCoRaHS home page at www.cocorahs.org to get more information on the program.

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	Illinois was the 13^th state to join the CoCoRaHS network. The network has now grown to include more than 6,500 volunteers in 30 states, and more states will be joining the program this year. CoCoRaHS in Illinois is coordinated by the Illinois State Water Survey, the National Weather Service, and the University of Illinois Extension - Natural Resources Management Team.

NOAA's National Weather Service Weather Forecast Office

See how many observers have signed up in your county...