Weather Spotting Course Offered

The National Weather Service of Gaylord is offering a free weather spotting course Tuesday, May 1, at 6 p.m. at the Mackinac County Airport in St. Ignace. The training will last approximately 90 minutes.

Each year, as severe weather season approaches, the Weather Service offers free weather talks, where participants receive severe weather handouts and National Weather Service spotter cards. Last year, more than 400 people from Northern and Eastern Upper Michigan attended. Afterwards, many signed up to be National Weather Service "Skywarn" spotters.

Spotters observe weather and report to the Weather Service, helping to issue and verify severe weather watches and warnings.

Further information can be obtained from the Mackinac County Office of Emergency Services at 643-6731.

A free information packet offering families tips to prepare for weather emergencies is also available from Sally Willis, emergency management coordinator, in her office on the third floor of the Mackinac County Courthouse at 100 Marley Street in St. Ignace.