Attend training to become a SKYWARN® Storm Spotter with Ernie Ostuno from the National Weather Service. No experience is needed and registration is required.
Registration Required.
As we know, thunderstorms, tornadoes, and lightning cause hundreds of injuries and deaths and billions in property and crop damages most years. In order to improve the ability to obtain critical weather information, the National Weather Service (NWS) established SKYWARN®. SKYWARN® is a volunteer program with over 350,000 trained severe weather spotters. Volunteers help to keep their local communities safe by providing timely and accurate reports of severe weather to the National Weather Service. SKYWARN® storm spotters are the first line of defense against severe weather, and their reports coupled with Doppler radar and improved satellite and other data allows the NWS to issue more timely and accurate warnings.
Anyone (ages 14 and up) who has an interest in public service is encouraged to register. The training will last about two hours with a small break in the middle and you will learn about:
It is recommended that you bring along a notebook and writing utensil to take notes, though not required.
Instructor Information: Meteorologist Ernie Ostuno has been working for the National Weather Service since 1994, starting out in Connecticut. He has been with the Grand Rapids National Weather Service since 1999 as a Senior Forecaster. His main areas of interest include storm damage surveying and lake effect snow.
Location details: This event will take place in our Austin, Sugarloaf, and West Lake rooms which can be found on the lower level. There are stairs and elevators available for access.
All participants are welcome. If you anticipate needing any type of accommodation or have questions about the physical access provided, please contact Sara Weyenberg at (269) 585-8710 or sweyenberg@portagelibrary.info in advance of your visit.
Skywarn® and the Skywarn® logo are registered trademarks of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, used with permission.
AGE GROUP: | High School | Adult |
EVENT TYPE: | Class |
TAGS: | 4:Adult Dept | 3:Standard | 2:In person | 1:Adult (18+) |
Located near the intersection of S. Westnedge and Shaver Rd, Portage District Library offers ample parking, EV charging, and access to the Portage Bikeway.
