DTX Spotter

Skywarn spotter training classes have been scheduled for Southeast Michigan in the spring of 2023. NWS Detroit will conduct about 15 in-person training classes and 4 virtual training classes. The in-person training classes details of those classes can be found in the calendar below. The virtual classes are being held via GoTo webinar with the link listed below

Spotter training classes cover severe weather hazards including thunderstorms and tornadoes. This includes the general structure and movement of severe thunderstorms, identification of important storm features, and safety concerns.

• All classes last about 75 to 90 minutes.
• They are free and open to the public.
• Must be age 13 or older to report.
• However, classes are appropriate for all ages. Ages 10 and up will likely get the most out of the training.
• Pre-registration MAY BE required. Please check with hosting County Emergency Manager.
• Classes are scheduled in collaboration with local emergency management officials.

 ** Important: Please note that a class will NOT be held in every county every year. You may attend a class in any location, regardless of where you live. **

If you cannot make one of the Skywarn classes this year, there are a couple of alternatives for Skywarn Training. An online Skywarn training is available through the NOAA MetEd web site. Currently there are two courses, each taking about one hour to complete...The Role of the Skywarn Spotter and Skywarn Spotter Convective Basics. 

Virtual Skywarn Training Information

As mentioned above, there are four scheduled dates for virtual Skywarn training in 2023. Below is a list of the dates and registration link. NWS Detroit will be using the GoTo webinar client to conduct the training. Each class will be limited to 200 connections to better facilitate the question and answer portion of the training. You may have, and are encouraged to have, multiple family members from the same household sit in on the training from one connection. All start times are at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted.

• Dates:
  • Wednesday, March 22
  • Saturday, April 1 (10 a.m. start)
  • Thursday, April 20
  • Tuesday, June 6
• Registration Link:
  • https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/rt/6455743368978927197
  • Be sure to select to appropriate training class date from the drop down menu at that registration webpage

We look forward to talking with you at this year’s Skywarn spotter training class!

* Note: In the event of a widespread severe weather threat for Southeast Michigan on the day of a class, the class will be cancelled.

Skywarn Spotter Training (Virtual & In-Person) 

The Skywarn spotter class will last roughly an hour and 15 minutes. Topics include:

• A review of the 2022 severe season
• A look at severe weather climatology
• Examination of severe weather meteorology
• NWS severe forecast products and safety
• Review of guidelines & reporting procedure for severe weather spotters