A special recognition was held at the NWS – Des Moines on Feb. 7. Nationwide amateur radio operators practice their volunteer service, provide equipment and attend severe weather spotter training. The Mid-Iowa Skywarn Association, Des Moines Radio Amateurs’ Association members, annually host severe weather spotter training classes and actively contribute to the NWS mission of protection of lives and property. During severe weather, Skywarn Coordinator Tom Reis, NØVPR, dedicates many hours at the NWS to make HF and VHF/UHF radio contacts with mobile field operators. These reports provide critical details that are included in weather statements and warnings. NWS employees surprised Tom, and wife, Heather, with an appreciation celebration to honor his contributions.

Storm spotting isn’t just a spring and summer activity! The National Weather Service would appreciate any reports of snow/ice/freezing rain accumulation, visibility, and other reports that would be of interest to NWS staff.

How can I transmit my winter storm reports?

Amateur radio: While Mid-Iowa Skywarn nets aren’t typically formally activated, many NWS meteorologists in Des Moines are also licensed operators and they do listen to repeater traffic on the MISA linked network during winter weather events. If you typically report via amateur radio, we prefer that you please use that method first. If you are unable to reach any staff, send your report via either of the next two methods.

Telephone: You can submit storm reports during the winter by calling NWS Des Moines at 1-800-SKYWARN. Please be prepared with your report, and your amateur radio call sign and spotter number. If you typically report via amateur radio, please attempt to reach NWS Des Moines K0DMX via amateur radio first.

eSpotter: If you are near a computer or mobile device with an internet connection, you can submit a report online via eSpotter. You will first need to set up an account with eSpotter. If you typically report via amateur radio, please attempt to reach NWS Des Moines K0DMX via amateur radio first.

Why is it important that I send my reports during the winter?

• Keeps amateur radio operators’ weather spotting and radio operation skills current year-round
• Helps travelers decide whether it’s safe to venture out
• Reports disseminated via TV, radio and internet
• Documents event for climatological record
• Aides NWS staff in forecast process
• Assists local and state officials in emergency response decisions
• Decision aid for local schools and businesses

The NWS gets little in the way of winter weather reports but they are needed and greatly appreciated. Any snowfall and icing reports are beneficial. We can’t emphasize enough how much they help.