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News & Announcements
SKYWARN
Stay updated on news and developments related to the National Weather Service's (NWS) SKYWARN program. This category provides articles and updates on the vital role of trained storm spotters in reporting severe weather. Learn how these volunteers provide real-time, on-the-ground intelligence that helps NWS meteorologists issue timely warnings and protect local communities.


2025 Tornado Warning Heat Map
by Reed Timmer at https://www.facebook.com/reedtimmer2.0 Check out this 2025 TORNADO WARNING HEAT MAP that shows where the severe weather and threats stacked up during the season! In summary, over 8,000 tornado warnings were issued, a majority of which stem from the active Dixie Alley #tornado season to begin spring, with La Nina in concert with a warm-phase North Pacific Oscillation. This lead to a progressive upper-level storm track which pushes the instability and wind she
Mark Armstrong
1 min read


Emergency Group Protocol During Weather Events
During a severe weather event, such as a tornado warning, the proper use of an emergency group is paramount for safety and coordination. Transmissions on this vital communication channel should be reserved exclusively for immediate, critical information concerning the storm and its impact. This includes prompt announcements when warnings are issued or officially canceled by the proper authority. Crucial reports also encompass observable, significant changes in the storm syste
Mark Armstrong
1 min read


Communication Etiquette for Radio Operators
While radio technology serves a wide range of purposes, the fundamental principles of clear and effective communication have been well-established over time. On the MRS network, we follow a code of conduct that ensures all on-air communication is respectful, efficient, and reliable. Adhering to these simple rules helps us all uphold a standard of operational excellence. The most fundamental rule is also the simplest: listen first, transmit second . Before you key your microp
Mark Armstrong
2 min read


MRES Volunteers: The Critical On-the-Ground Eyes of the NWS SKYWARN Program
With the average lead time for a tornado warning at just 13 minutes, the real-time observations of Managed Radio Emergency Services (MRES) trained volunteers, acting as National Weather Service (NWS) SKYWARN spotters, are essential for providing the public with life-saving information.
Mark Armstrong
2 min read


The NWS SKYWARN Program
SKYWARN is a service of NOAA NWS For a storm, there is no substitute for the human eye on the ground. This simple, yet critical, fact has...
Mark Armstrong
2 min read
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