Learn how to identify and report severe weather at the annual Storm Spotter Class in St. Louis.
Severe weather strikes unexpectedly, so being prepared remains crucial for your safety. Consequently, the National Weather Service (NWS) in St. Louis, in partnership with the City of St. Louis Emergency Management Agency (CEMA) and St. Louis Community College, offers a free Storm Spotter Class on March 5, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. Instructors will hold the class at the William J. Harrison Center, located at 3140 Cass Ave., St. Louis, MO 63106. During this interactive session, you will learn how to identify hazardous weather and report it to the NWS, which helps keep the entire community informed and safe.
What You’ll Learn at the Storm Spotter Class
The Storm Spotter Class aims to empower residents with the knowledge to recognize severe weather conditions and take appropriate action. specifically, participants will learn:
- The basics of thunderstorm development and storm structures.
- Key features to look for during severe weather.
- How to report hazardous weather to the National Weather Service.
Furthermore, this free, two-hour class is open to all ages, although guardians should accompany minors. Additionally, organizers will provide American Sign Language interpretation, ensuring accessibility for all attendees.
Why Severe Weather Preparedness Matters
“2025 was a very active season for severe storms in the Midwest, and we will see the impacts of the May 16, 2025, tornado that hit the City of St. Louis for years to come,” says Matthew Beitscher, Lead Meteorologist for the National Weather Service St. Louis office. “We want St. Louis residents to feel empowered to know how to notice severe weather conditions and what to do when they impact the community.”
Moreover, Gregg Favre, Commissioner of the City Emergency Management Agency, adds, “What you learn on March 5 stays with you—these skills protect you and your family whether a storm catches you at home, at work, or on the road.”
Additional Opportunities to Learn
If you can’t attend the March 5 session, a second Storm Spotter Class will occur on April 16, 2026, at the BJC at the Commons, 4249 Clayton Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110. This session also begins at 6:30 p.m. and includes American Sign Language interpretation. Additionally, the NWS has scheduled classes throughout the St. Louis area. For a full list of dates and locations, visit the National Weather Service St. Louis website.
Stay Informed During Severe Weather
Preparedness doesn’t stop at attending a class. Therefore, residents should have multiple ways to stay informed about severe weather in St. Louis:
- Use a weather radio to receive alerts directly from the National Weather Service.
- Sign up for the City’s NotifySTL alert system at stlouis-mo.gov/notifystl.
Ultimately, these tools help you stay confident and prepared when severe weather strikes.
Related Resources
For more tips on staying safe during severe weather, check out this article on The Narrative Matters about emergency preparedness. Additionally, visit the American Red Cross for guidance on creating a family emergency plan.
Contact Information:
Kim Vanden Berg
Public Information Officer
City Emergency Management Agency
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