The National Weather Service is offering SKYWARN spotter training in several Houston area locations throughout the coming months. SKYWARN weather spotters are trained volunteers who watch the skies during severe weather and relay tips back to the National Weather Service. According to the NWS, these reports are used to both validate existing warning and to provide momentum for issuing new warnings. The trainings are free two-to-three hour sessions open to the public.

Houston Area metro training opportunities:

Conroe Feb. 18, 1-4 p.m. Lone Star Convention Center 9055 Airport Rd., Conroe 936-523-3915 Richmond Feb. 23, 6:30-9 p.m. George Memorial Library 1001 Golfview Drive, Richmond 281-342-6185 Kingwood March 4, 9-11:30 a.m. Christ the King Lutheran Church 3803 W. Lake Houston Parkway, Kingwood Friendswood March 9, 6:30-9 p.m. Friendswood Public Library 416 S. Friendswood Drive, Friendswood 281-996-3335 Missouri City Oct. 24, 6-8:30 p.m. Missouri City Public Safety Headquarters 3849 Cartwright Rd., Missouri City 281-403-4370 Full Schedule