Who We Are and What We Do

Skywarn is a U.S. Department of Commerce sanctioned group of volunteer severe weather spotters / trackers whom are highly trained by the National Weather Service in severe weather recognition, storm dynamics, and post damage analysis. Our local Skywarn group is comprised of local amateur radio operators. Reports are relayed from the field to the area Net Controller WA5ZIP via 2-meter radio and phone and this information is immediately relayed to the NWS and/or to local emergency management agencies. This process compliments the existing tools such as Doppler Radar and satellite photos which the NWS uses to determine when to notify the public of severe weather conditions. Many times the information provided to the NWS by Skywarn is used as the basis for warnings issued to the public. It is our sincere hope that we can help save or reduce the loss of life and property due to severe weather in the Rio Grande Valley through our efforts.