Storm Spotters Save Countless Lives Each Year. Here’s How To Become One.

As a volunteer firefighter, my dad would always have to go out during storms to be the tornado spotter.  He would get in the firetruck and head to the highest point of our small town with the best vantage point and watch the storm roll in.

I do that now...but it's usually on my front porch or in my garage.

It would be good for everyone to know what to look for though.  He taught me a little bit about how to recognize when a storm would turn into a tornado.  Watching for the clouds to rotate against each other and to keep an eye out for the long funnel clouds that could turn problematic.

If you've ever wanted to know what storm spotters do or how to become one yourself.  There's a free training happening near you or at least online.

According to Weather.gov:

Spotter training classes cover severe weather hazards including thunderstorms and tornadoes.  This includes the general structure and movement of severe thunderstorms, identification of important storm features, and safety concerns.

These training sessions last about two hours, are free and open to the public.  They say ages 10 and up will get the most of the training and you're welcome to attend any class in any location regardless of where you live.

Pre-registration is required for virtual classes.

• 6:00pm
  
   Virtual Spotter Training - NWS Quad Cities