Most spotter training is conducted from January through March, in preparation for peak severe weather season. A second spotter training season is conducted in September and October.

• These classes are free of charge and are open to anyone who has an interest in severe weather and/or public service. The objective of the training is to provide the knowledge to identify and report key severe weather features.

• The classes contain video footage of recent violent tornadoes, flash floods, hailstorms, and downbursts.
• The classes are about 2 to 3 hours in length. All course materials are provided, and a certificate of completion will be given at the end of each class.
• Media outlets across the region are encouraged to announce classes in their coverage area.
• For more details on spotter training classes in southeast Missouri, southern Illinois, southwest Indiana or western Kentucky, you may E-mail Rick Shanklin directly.
• This training schedule is subject to change. Please call the appropriate contact person for details, including any last-minute changes to the time or meeting place. The spotter training program is coordinated by Rick Shanklin, the Warning Coordination Meteorologist at the Paducah NWS office. He can be reached at 270-744-6440.