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BASIC FIELD GUIDE

This guide has been compiled for use by trained spotters in the field (both fixed and mobile spotters) and communication specialists who receive and relay the reports. The safety tips contained in this guide are geared primarily for mobile spotters, but the technical concepts that are outlined are applicable to spotters of all types. This guide is not a general handout for the public. As a result of its specialized subject matter, a number of technical terms are used. Their meanings are explained in the text. Many of the photos used in this guide were taken in the Great Plains area of the United States where visibilities usually are good. Spotters in other areas of the country, especially the southern states, may have difficulty seeing some of the thunderstorm’s features because of poor visibility caused by terrain, trees, heavy rainfall, or low clouds.

ADVANCED FIELD GUIDE

The information contained in this guide is not for the novice spotter. It is recommended that spotters go through two or more basic spotter training sessions and have some experience at actual storm spotting before attempting the intermediate/advanced training material. Spotters should be comfortable with the basic concepts of storm structure and storm spotting. Obviously, spotters should have a desire to learn the latest concepts of tornado and severe thunderstorm behavior.

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