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SKYWARN™ Recognition Day

Join in on SKYWARN Recognition Day - offering heartfelt thanks to our nation's storm spotters and weather enthusiasts for their invaluable service!

Saturday

December 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEFirst Saturday in December

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYCareers

SUBCATEGORYFirst Responders

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Mark your calendars for an exciting day of appreciation and recognition! On December 2, we honor the dedicated individuals who help keep us safe from unpredictable weather on SKYWARN™ Recognition Day. This day, established in 1999 by the National Weather Service and the American Radio Relay League (ARRL), pays tribute to the thousands of SKYWARN™ weather spotters who volunteer their time and expertise to report severe weather to the National Weather Service. Their valuable contributions help save lives and property. So let's cheer, applaud, and join in welcoming a day of thunderous appreciation for these unsung heroes!

TIMELINE

SKYWARN™ Recognition Day Timeline

SKYWARN™ Program Launch

The National Weather Service (NWS) initiates the SKYWARN™ program to train volunteers to spot and report severe weather events.

Rise in Volunteers

By 1980, the SKYWARN™ program expands significantly, with thousands of volunteers offering their time and effort to safeguard their communities.

ARRL Collaboration

The American Radio Relay League (ARRL) initiates collaboration with the NWS, leading to close ties between the amateur radio community and SKYWARN™ spotters.

First SKYWARN™ Recognition Day

The NWS and ARRL establish SKYWARN™ Recognition Day to honor the contributions of storm spotters and weather enthusiasts.

SKYWARN™ Online Training

NWS introduces online training for SKYWARN™ volunteers to enhance their meteorological knowledge and spotting skills.

SKYWARN™ Reaches 400,000 Spotters

By 2017, the SKYWARN™ program has grown to involve over 400,000 trained spotters nationwide.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate SKYWARN™ Recognition Day

Attend a weather seminar

To appreciate the work of SKYWARN™ personnel, it's important to understand what they do. Participate in a weather seminar or presentation, online or in-person, to learn about storm spotting and severe weather safety.

VISIT

Visit a weather station or observatory

Check if your local weather station or observatory has any planned activities for SKYWARN™ Recognition Day. This could include tours, presentations, or even a chance to meet with storm spotters.

SUPPORT

Support the SKYWARN™ program

Consider making a donation to the National Weather Service or your local SKYWARN™ program. Your contribution will help support this volunteer-driven program and promote severe weather education and safety.

Share SKYWARN™ stories on social media

Help spread appreciation and awareness for SKYWARN™ Recognition Day by sharing stories or experiences of storm spotters on your social media platforms. Use related hashtags so that others can join the conversation.

LEARN

Learn more about meteorology

To truly appreciate the work of storm spotters, deepen your knowledge about meteorology. Explore resources like books, documentaries, and online courses to learn more about this fascinating field.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why SKYWARN™ Recognition Day is Important

Encourages Community Participation

SKYWARN Recognition Day not only pays tribute to weather spotters but also encourages community involvement. By making donations, attending events or sharing stories on social media, individuals can directly contribute to and engage with their local SKYWARN™ program. This promotes a sense of community and encourages others to participate in protecting and educating their community about severe weather.

Recognition for Critical Contributions

SKYWARN Recognition Day places a well-deserved spotlight on the contributions of storm spotters and weather enthusiasts. Their voluntary efforts in reporting severe weather conditions to the National Weather Service plays a crucial role in protecting lives and property. This day helps us appreciate their invaluable service and commitment towards public safety.

Increases Awareness on Weather Safety

By actively participating in SKYWARN Recognition Day, we can gain a deeper understanding of severe weather safety. Attending weather seminars or visiting weather stations is not only informative but also emphasizes the importance of being prepared and staying safe during unpredictable weather conditions.

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May 2026

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Volunteer Recognition Day

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