The Program
Skywarn weather spotters are people who either have a strong interest in weather or are public service oriented such as amateur radio operators, or emergency response personnel. We have farmers, pilots, engineers, housewives, lawyers, teachers, students, firemen, utility workers and more. Our volunteers are truly diverse but with a common interest in weather and a strong desire to help their community.
When hazardous weather occurs such as severe thunderstorms, floods, tornadoes, snow and ice storms, our volunteers reports what is happening at their location. They are asked to report whenever certain criteria are met such as when one inch of rain has fallen, a thunderstorm is producing hale, or trees have been blown down. Reports arrive at our office via the telephone, cell phone, two-way radio and amateur radio. Reports are immediately relayed to the National Weather Service (NWS). The reports are combined with radar and satellite data to determine what the storms will do next. Spotters provide "ground truth" to NWS forecasters. The reports are used by forecasters to send out public statements, warnings and advisories, and short-term forecast.
The Daviess County Emergency Management Agency currently has over 200 active volunteers who cover Daviess County. If you are interested in volunteering in the Skywarn program please contact EMA at (270) 685-8448.
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