Meteorologist how-to

How to Issue a Severe Weather Warning

Warnings save lives.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Warnings save lives. In short: watch; identify; check, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Watch radar.

  2. Identify threats.

  3. Check reports.

  4. Draw the polygon.

  5. Write clear impacts.

  6. Send and update.

Safety reminders for meteorologists

  • Communicate warnings clearly
  • Stay safe when storm spotting
  • Follow severe weather plans
  • Manage fatigue on shifts

Front · Dew point · Doppler radar · Numerical model · Watch · Warning: see the full meteorologist glossary.

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