When storm clouds start stacking like towering castles on the horizon, trained eyes on the ground can make all the difference. This spring, Lenawee County residents have an opportunity to become those eyes.

Lenawee County Emergency Management is partnering with the National Weather Service to host a Skywarn Weather Spotter Training on:

📅 Thursday, May 7, 2026
🕕 6:00 PM
📍 Knight Auditorium, Valade Hall, Adrian College

Each spring, the National Weather Service offers a series of in-person and virtual trainings designed to prepare volunteers and community members to recognize and report severe weather.

What You’ll Learn

This in-person session provides a comprehensive look at severe weather, including:

• Thunderstorms and tornadoes
• Storm structure and movement
• Identifying key cloud features
• Safety considerations during severe weather
• Planning for and anticipating dangerous conditions

The training also includes interactive elements, giving attendees a chance to apply what they learn in real-world scenarios.

⏱️ Duration: Approximately 2 hours
💲 Cost: Free
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Who Should Attend: Open to all ages (recommended for ages 10 and up)
👉 Registration is required: Register online here

What Is a Storm Spotter?

The mission of the National Weather Service is simple but vital: to save lives and protect property.

While advanced radar systems like Doppler radar help meteorologists detect severe storms, they can’t always show what’s happening at ground level. That’s where storm spotters come in.

Storm spotters are trained individuals who observe weather conditions in real time and report critical information back to local emergency management and the National Weather Service. These reports help confirm tornadoes, hail, damaging winds, and other hazards—often leading to faster and more accurate warnings for the public.

How to Become a Spotter

Getting started is simple: attend a training like this one.

Skywarn classes teach participants how to:

• Recognize severe storm development
• Identify important visual clues
• Understand how and where to report weather conditions
• Support local warning systems and emergency response

No prior experience is required, just curiosity and a willingness to learn.

Be the Difference When It Matters Most

Severe weather can develop quickly, but informed communities respond faster. By becoming a trained Skywarn spotter, you can play a direct role in keeping Lenawee County safe when it matters most.

Register today and be ready when the skies turn serious.