SKYWARN spotters provide lifesaving information for all types of environmental hazards. However, the main responsibility of a spotter is to report severe local storms. More than 10,000 severe thunderstorms, 5,000 floods and 1,000 tornadoes occur in the U.S. during an average year. If that weren't enough, spotters are also trained on warning signs for snowfall, earthquakes, landslides, avalanches, volcanic ash fall, and coastal hazards such as tsunamis, water spouts and rip currents.Since the program started in the 1960s, SKYWARN information, coupled with Doppler radar technology, improved satellite data and other resources, has enabled the NWS to issue more timely and accurate warnings for tornadoes, severe thunderstorms and flash floods. SKYWARN storm spotters form the Nation's first line of defense against severe weather. The efforts of these volunteers give communities the precious gift of time - seconds and minutes that can help save lives. Who is Eligible? Anyone interested in helping their community and with an interest in weather is welcome. Offices have various ways of reporting, from amateur radio operators, to phoning in reports, or emailing and posting them online or through social media. SKYWARN Spotters include police and fire personnel, dispatchers, EMS workers, public utility workers and the public at large. The NWS encourages anyone responsible for large groups of people or who work primarily outdoors to become a spotter. So, How can you get involved? If you are interested in becoming a SKYWARN Spotter and either reporting independently or joining the  Team SWIRT and working together with our team please click the "contact tab" above and submit your information. We are currently seeking new members from across the state in an effort to get anyone not certified trained and prepared for the upcoming spring severe weather season.