It happens every time we see any type of severe weather in the forecast: Keyboard Meteorologists. However, there are legitimate weather spotters sharing information. Theirs sometimes get lost in the tornado of comments on social media.

What is a Weather Spotter?

A weather spotter is a trained volunteer who provides real-time reports of severe weather conditions to the National Weather Service (NWS). These reports include critical details such as hail size, wind speeds, tornado formations, and local storm damage. While advanced radar technology helps predict severe weather, spotters serve as the essential link between radar indications and actual conditions on the ground.

PHOTO: CANVA WEATHER WIND
PHOTO: CANVA WEATHER WIND
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Why Become a Weather Spotter?

Real-time weather reports save lives. Spotters help meteorologists issue more accurate warnings, giving communities extra time to prepare for severe weather events. Whether you're a weather enthusiast, first responder, or just someone who wants to contribute to public safety, becoming a weather spotter is a valuable way to serve your community.

How to Get Trained

The National Weather Service offers free weather spotter training online. The sessions last about two hours and cover storm identification, reporting techniques, and safety measures. You do not need to live in the county where you take the training—sessions are identical across locations.

Upcoming Virtual Training Sessions

After registering, you'll receive a confirmation email with details on how to join the webinar.

What Is SKYWARN?

SKYWARN is a volunteer program sponsored by the National Weather Service that trains individuals to recognize and report severe weather. Many spotters are amateur radio operators, first responders, or simply weather enthusiasts who want to help keep their communities safe.

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Get Involved Today

Weather spotter training is free, informative, and could help save lives. If you're in Southern Indiana, consider signing up for one of these virtual sessions and become a vital part of your local weather safety network!

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Stacker consulted photo archives and the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat to see how 15 U.S. city skylines evolved in the past century.

Gallery Credit: Stacker

LOOK: The states with the most UFO sightings

For each state, we’ve also included details of famous UFO sightings in that state. Of note is that almost three-quarters of all UFO sighting reports in the United States occur between 4 p.m. and midnight, and tend to peak between 9 and 10 p.m. Food for thought next time you're out scoping for alien life. Keep reading to see which states have had the most UFO sightings.

Gallery Credit: Nicole Caldwell & Matt Albasi