ODESSA, Texas —
The Skywarn spotter training class hosted by the National Weather Service at the Odessa Fire Station 6 had a great turnout. The first responders came out to your everyday weather enthusiasts. Everyone left with a little bit more knowledge and can be a little bit more prepared on how to report severe weather and it was great to hear from the first responders on what they took away from the training.
"It's a tool for our community. So, coming to these classes [can help] you understand what you're seeing and you can report it to the Weather Service and our news media, you know, giving that information to them and having an educated way of explaining how big a hailstorm is... that it's the size of a golf ball... putting it next to something for comparison, when you put a picture out so that we have a reference to look at. That can help us estimate what the damage is going to be like, or what we need to do to prepare for the response after the storm passes," said Shane Bell, The American Red Cross Disaster Action Team Coordinator for the Permian Basin.
Now, NewsWest 9's Storm Tracker team are having a great time being a part of these trainings held by the National Weather Service. They would like for the public to know a little bit more about reporting and letting you know that all ages can participate in these trainings.
"These classes are designed for all ages, from children all the way to adults. You know, anyone can take something away from this class, even if their kids. Hopefully we can inspire a future meteorologist one day or even just get a kid to go, and if they learn one thing about weather safety, where to find shelter from a tornado in their basement, or the lowest room in their house in an interior room, that's great, " said Dave Muyan, Meteorologist at the National Weather Service in Midland
If you're not able to make it to tonight's training, there are two more next week in Marfa and in Alpine. There will also be a virtual training that will be available as well. Now we have lots to talk about when severe weather comes around and we appreciate you all for joining in on becoming a storm spotter.