Apply now to become a local Skywarn volunteer

From tornadoes to thunderstorms and floods, severe weather can devastate homes and businesses. However, many unsung heroes work to protect the community in times of danger. These heroes are known as Skywarn volunteers. Skywarn is a program developed to train volunteers to be weather spotters.

Wayne County Emergency Management Agency will host Skywarn training on April 16 from 6-8 p.m. at the Wayne County Public Library Main Branch, 220 W. Liberty St., Wooster.

Trained spotters on the ground can provide information that supplements radar and satellite data. These individuals, often residents who are passionate about weather, are specially trained by professionals from the National Weather Service to identify and report severe weather conditions such as tornadoes, hailstorms, flash floods and damaging winds.

Skywarn volunteers become the eyes and ears of NWS in helping provide better weather watch and warning services to the public. They are a crucial link between meteorological experts and the communities they serve. Their reports help validate and enhance the accuracy of weather forecasts, allowing forecasters to issue timely warnings that potentially save lives and protect property.

Anyone may participate. Register at https://forms.gle/NYmvd2ZJjtuATnkP8. There is no cost to attend the training session.

Dan Starcher is the public communications coordinator for Wayne County.