About Us

Branch County Skywarn consists of private citizens and members of emergency services, who with a trained eye, volunteer by making vital observations during periods of life threatening weather. These observations provide the National Weather Service and local emergency management with critical real-time information, to improve early warnings in order for the public to seek adequate shelter.

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Timely information will be updated on this website, to allow participants to stay abreast of changing conditions, which may require activation. Amateur radio is the primary method of communication and coordination for Branch County Skywarn, although E911 and the National Weather Service eSpotter program are alternatives, in order to accommodate all who wish to participate. While mobile observers offer the greatest flexibility, stationary observers are equally encouraged.

Branch County Skywarn operates on a frequency of 147.300 (100Hz CTCSS Tone), which is home of the Branch County Amateur Radio Club's WD8KAF repeater. When approaching severe weather appears to have an imminent impact on Branch County, a net will be formed to coordinate the Skywarn effort. Regular participants of this net are members of the Amateur Radio Emergency Service and any licensed amateur sincerely interested in emergency service. The primary backup frequency of this function is 146.55 simplex, with a secondary backup of 147.55 simplex.Branch County Skywarn also coordinates with Skywarn efforts in surrounding counties.

If you would like to join, or just want more information regarding Branch County Skywarn or Amateur Radio, please email brad@bronsonweather.org or wb8r@arrl.net