Your local SKYWARN organization
SKYWARN is not a club, but an organization of enthusiasts with interests in the areas of severe weather spotting. SKYWARN has long been associated with amateur radio, but participation in SKYWARN does not require an amateur radio license. SKYWARN spotters can communicate by radio, telephone, and internet. Spotters are trained to safely report weather conditions (wind gusts, hail size, rainfall, and cloud formations that could signal a developing tornado). Operating from Weather Ops in the DESCOM Center in the basement of Great River Medical Center, Des Moines County SKYWARN is the central point for the receipt and distribution of information about incoming and active storms. Information is exchanged with the NWS and DESCOM 911 Dispatch Center to determine if it is necessary to activate the outdoor sirens for storm warnings.
To learn more about SKYWARN, click on the link below. If you think you would like to join SKYWARN, just fill out the electronic Inquiry form and submit it. In Des Moines County, SKYWARN is a part of Des Moines County Emergency Management, located at 512 N. Main St. Suite 1, Burlington Iowa 52601.
To participate in the online Spotter Training Class, click on the National Weather Service picture below.
To view the news release regarding Des Moines County StormReady recognition.