The spotters are trained by local National Weather Forecast Offices on how to spot severe thunderstorms, tornadoes,hail and flooding. In parts of the country,spotters also report snowfall and ice. Two-thirds of the volunteers are licensed amateur radio operators.
Amateur radio plays a big role in the skywarn program.
During severe weather,amateur radio volunteers man a amateur radio station at the National Weather Service Office. They talk to the spotters in the particular area that the storm is occuring and request information needed by the forecasters. Large storms knock out phone service. National Weather Service Forecast Office,Taunton,Ma. There is no cost for the class.