Skywarn and Amateur Radio

Mike Corey, W5MPC, the Emergency Preparedness Manager for the American Radio Relay League,  spoke at the National Severe Weather Workshop in Norman.

This annual event brings amateur radio enthusiasts, emergency managers, weather professionals and amateurs to learn new skills, tips, and information related to severe weather.

During his talk, he described the League, the Amateur Radio Emergency Service and the League's Field Organization.

"The ARRL supports the Skywarn program", said Corey and cited the Memorandum of Understanding between the League and the National Weather Service.

Storm Spotting and Amateur Radio is a new book from the League.

"We look out for ALL amateur radio operators, whether they are a member or not," he said.

The Field Operations helps gather reports and helps with after action reports.

"Look at the ARRL as a resource," said Corey, who mentioned the number of ways the League can help, including QST.

Corey encourages all amateur radio operators to register for ARES, get trained and stay trained, get connected with your Section leadership, and get involved.

Corey fielded a Twitter question about changes in the ARES program.

"Major changes don't come easy," he replied.

Smaller changes will happen from time to time.  "We are aware of the interest in modernizing ARES," he said.

Corey fielded a question about reallocation and mentioned the need to comment on HR-607.