Weather Spotter Training Class Set for Tonight in Jenison

Residents can learn to identify severe storms and report weather conditions

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The National Weather Service and Ottawa County emergency management officials are hosting a free Skywarn Weather Spotter Training Class on Thursday evening at Alive Church in Jenison, Michigan. The class will teach first responders, amateur radio operators, and other weather enthusiasts how to identify severe storms and tornadoes, report weather conditions, and stay safe during extreme weather.

Why it matters

As spring storm season approaches, the training class equips local residents to be the 'eyes and ears' on the ground, providing valuable real-time weather data to the National Weather Service to improve forecasting and emergency response in the community.

The details

The Skywarn Weather Spotter Training Class will cover topics such as identifying the signs of severe storms, proper reporting procedures, and personal safety tips. Attendees will learn from National Weather Service staff and Ottawa County emergency management officials, including Director Lou Hunt.

  • The training class is set for Thursday evening, February 19, 2026.
  • Doors open at 6 PM, with the class running from 6:30 PM to 8 PM.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing severe weather alerts.

Lou Hunt

The Director of Ottawa County Emergency Management.

Alive Church

The venue hosting the Skywarn Weather Spotter Training Class in Jenison, Michigan.

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What they’re saying

“The Skywarn Weather Spotter Training Class is a great way for residents to get involved and help keep our community safe during severe weather.”

— Lou Hunt, Ottawa County Emergency Management Director (WHTC-AM/FM)

What’s next

Residents interested in attending the free Skywarn Weather Spotter Training Class can register online or show up at Alive Church in Jenison on Thursday evening.

The takeaway

By training local weather spotters, the National Weather Service and emergency management officials can improve severe weather preparedness and response in the Jenison community.