A notable example of this is through the use of amateur radio nets, which is still an important method since severe weather can significantly disrupt local telecommunications systems.

Reports from spotters and chasers are given to the National Weather Service so that they have ground truth information to warn the general public.

Spotting provides ground information and localized conditions that the National Weather Service might not know the extent or might not otherwise be aware of.

They typically report events, such as structures struck by lightning, rotating wall clouds, funnel clouds—or conditions that exceed specific thresholds, such as extremely strong winds, significant hail or very heavy rainfall.

These sessions usually occupy two hours, and focus on hazard identification and communication along with spotter strategies and safety.

The NWS encourages anyone with an interest in public service and access to some method of communication, such as amateur radio, telephone, the Internet, etc.

Individuals affiliated with hospitals, schools, churches, nursing homes or who have a responsibility for protecting others are also strongly encouraged to become spotters.