The Improved NWS Storm Spotters’ Training Program at Ft. Worth, Tex.

Abstract

This paper describes improved methods of training volunteer tornado spotters in the National Weather Service's Skywarn program. The updated training program emphasizes the most likely tornado spawning area within a thunderstorm complex and also the types of clouds and weather phenomena that precede and accompany tornadoes. Diagrams and photographs illustrate the methods the author uses in training spotters. Finally, the early and accurate spotters? assessment of a developing tornado system and the ensuing successful NWS warning are discussed.