Joined via local NWS office, but never received any guidance.

[Trainer7]

I took the Comet classes and contacted my local NWS office, and they sent me a certificate from their office when I joined and was entered into 2 databases, including the Ham Radio database. They said they don't issue Spotter numbers. I never received any additional information on how to contact them via phone, app, Ham Radio or anything else to report anything. I figured I need to follow up, but thought I'd ask here first in case I missed something obvious.
Thanks, Joe.

 

[Shawn Gossman]

I took the Comet classes and contacted my local NWS office, and they sent me a certificate from their office when I joined and was entered into 2 databases, including the Ham Radio database. They said they don't issue Spotter numbers. I never received any additional information on how to contact them via phone, app, Ham Radio or anything else to report anything. I figured I need to follow up, but thought I'd ask here first in case I missed something obvious.
Thanks, Joe.

A lot of Weather Forecast Offices don't issue numbers.

Our WFO in Paducah always issued the same number to all local area spotters. But I have never used that number once in storm spotting.

Paducah sends us emails. They take reports by phone and by SMS-text. I'm not sure about your WFO though.

They should have a Skywarn page on their local website.

 

[Trainer7]

A lot of Weather Forecast Offices don't issue numbers.

Our WFO in Paducah always issued the same number to all local area spotters. But I have never used that number once in storm spotting.

Paducah sends us emails. They take reports by phone and by SMS-text. I'm not sure about your WFO though.

They should have a Skywarn page on their local website.

Thanks, but I haven't found anything for reporting to them. I'll have to email them again and see if they ever processed and approved me on "the list" and can give me the info for calling, app, and radio.

Thanks, Joe.

 

[Trainer7]

I have the scoop now from following up with my Local NWO. No formal additional training. I am in the Databases, regular spotter and Ham Radio. They prefer twitter, google form via webpage, or app. They don't have anyone to monitor Ham Radio all the time, so they don't want to use that as a primary way to report. Not preferred, btu they can also take calls to the main office number. They said they send newsletters out and I should be getting one soon. I think they may be quarterly because if monthly, I already missed a couple.

Joe.

 

[Shawn Gossman]

Great to know

 

[Trainer7]

Just to update, our New Orleans/Baton Rouge Office did just offer Webex courses in January and February. There were 3 basic and 2 advanced courses led by a meteorologist from the office. I took the Advanced Spotter on 12 JAN 23. It looks like they are trying to get more active with the Spotters, but I have been told that it is an understaffed office.