Today, December 3 is Skywarn Recognition Day!

SKYWARN Recognition Day was developed in 1999 by the National Weather Service (NWS) and ARRL The National Association for Amateur Radio® to honor the contributions that SKYWARN volunteers make to the NWS mission — the protection of life and property during threatening weather. During the SKYWARN special event, hams will operate from several NWS offices, as well as from their mobile, home, and club stations. “The relationship between amateur radio operators and the NWS is extremely important for relaying information during storms of any type,” said ARRL Director of Emergency Management Josh Johnston, KE5MHV. “SKYWARN is a perfect example of the value of hams working together with government partners during times of disaster.” 

The SKYWARN Storm Spotter Program has been a mechanism used by the NWS for years to educate people on what to watch for during weather events and to provide a source for information to the NWS offices. Program courses provide information on reportable criteria for cloud formations, and even what to look for during the formation of supercells that may cause tornadoes or other potentially dangerous weather events.

To celebrate, today the National Weather Service office in Ruskin, in addition to having a net on the NI4CE system, opened it’s doors and welcomed amateur radio operators to come in and visit and have a look around…