It’s in partnership with the National Weather Service.
FREDERICK, Md. (LG) – The Frederick County Division of Emergency Management will be partnering with the National Weather Service Office, to offer two free SKYWARN “Storm Spotter” trainings. “It’s for residents and emergency responders, said Dennis Dudley, Director of Emergency Preparedness.
“SKYWARN is a National Weather program designed to obtain critical information during times of severe weather, ” continued Dudley.
“Volunteers receive training in storm identification and evolution and when severe weather threatens, they report information to the local National Weather Service. Meteorologists will provide training on recognizing features associated with developing mature, and dissipating thunderstorms, which cause hazardous weather such as lightning, flooding, hail, tornadoes, and downbursts. ”
At the end of the course, individuals will be assigned a SKYWARN® spotter number, which will be maintained in the official database at the NWS. Dudley said you will also be trained on how to report vital weather information.
The Basics course will take place on Thursday, December 14, 2023, from 6pm to 8pm. The course will take place at the Frederick County Public Safety Training Facility, located at 5370 Public Safety Place, in Frederick, Md.
SKYWARN Spotters include police and fire personnel, dispatchers, public utility workers, HAM radio operators, and private citizens. Individuals affiliated with hospitals, schools, churches, nursing homes or who have a responsibility for protecting others are also encouraged to become a severe weather spotter. Individuals who have attended in the past are welcome to attend as a refresher. Contact [email protected] for questions regarding the class.
By: Loretta Gaines