Good morning.

First, a big welcome to all of you who have joined CoCoRaHS in the past
few weeks to help measure and report rain, sleet, hail and snow.  Things
are a little slow this time of year, and not too many people are signing
up, but we are still seeing about 10 new CoCoRaHS applications each day
from across the country.  We're sure glad to have you. Welcome to the
team.  If you have questions about getting started, please ask.


Deep Winter

Looking at our thermometer this morning here in northern Colorado, it's
a nippy -14F (-25 C) and still dropping.  It's both beautiful and
dreadful when it gets this cold.  Our horses, chickens and geese are
still doing well but it must wear on them.  Our heated stock tank has
been leaking so we have a small glacier out in the corral.  Sanding the
corral to keep the horses upright seems a bit odd.  Each of our horses
has a beard of white frost.  We're lucky to get one fresh egg a day and
we need to collect the eggs quickly before they freeze.  But I'm toasty.
I got a lovely new pair of insulated coveralls for Christmas.  If they
wear as well as my old ones, I should be good now for another 25 years.

We're not the only ones that are cold.  The Dakotas are crazy cold.
It's been subfreezing in the Ohio Valley for many straight days.  Those
of you down by the Gulf Coast are probably the coldest of all since
you're not used to 18 degree F weather.  This is the time of year for
this, though.  The weeks just following the winter solstice are often
the coldest of the year, so we're on schedule.  We can also be assured
that brighter warmer days are soon ahead   -- and then come the storms
of spring.  Hang on!  The cycle continues.


Snow on snow

I almost feel sorry for all of you in the Midwest, the northern plains,
the Great Lakes and New England.  I know it's a normal part of life --
cold, snow and wind -- and it's a fine combination that makes you
strong, healthy and full of good stories to tell.  But still . . . .
The snow just hasn't had any chance to melt, and new snows have been
accumulating on the old.   Then the wind comes and rearranges it all.
This is the weather observer's nightmare.  But still hundreds of you go
out each morning  -- in the dark -- to try to measure the stuff.  Hats
off to you!!!  (Actually, you better keep your hat on).  The snow is
more than a foot deep now in many places.  Most of South Dakota and Iowa
have deep snow with over 20" in several parts of Iowa.  There is still
some snow left from the Oklahoma blizzard, and western North Carolina
still has snow left from the big mid December storm.  Ours here in Fort
Collins is only about 6" deep on the level, but with 1.00" of water
content (Snow Water Equivalent) it won't be melting any time soon.

Do remember to report your average depth of total snow on the ground
each day, even if there has not been new snowfall.  Tracking national
snowcover patterns is very helpful for weather forecasting and climate
monitoring and prediction.  When the snow is very uneven, an estimated
average may be the best you can do.


Fund Raising Update -- Five for CoCoRaHS!

I am pleased -- no, I think "thrilled" would be a better word" --  to
report that since our "Five for CoCoRaHS" campaign was launched December
18,  over 1000 CoCoRaHS volunteers have sent in donations.  Some of your
employees have even sent in matching gifts.  Over $20,000 has been
collected to help maintain and grow CoCoRaHS in 2010.  This is a huge
help to the project as we start a new year, and should help us leverage
support from other larger organizations that use, appreciate and rely on
the fantastic weather data you are helping gather each day.   Nearly 10%
of our active CoCoRaHS participants have helped out financially in the
past 3 weeks.  Considering that most of the donations were $5, this is
indeed an impressive showing of support and demonstrates again how a
team effort can have a huge impact.

There are still three weeks left in the campaign.  If you were thinking
about sending in a donation to support CoCoRaHS, there is still time and
it's very easy.    Just go to
http://www.cocorahs.org/Content.aspx?page=donate5   and click the
appropriate button at the bottom of the page.  If you would like to give
a little more and get a CoCoRaHS t-shirt or sweatshirt, you'll see those
options are also available.  If you would prefer to mail in a check, the
information you need is at the bottom of the donation form.

And if you don't or can't help in this way, that's fine.  You are
already sharing some of your own personal time to help measure and
report precipitation across the country.  Your gift of time is the
greatest gift of all.

I'll let you know if we reach $30,000.


9000 reports

Speaking of reaching goals, remember when we were shooting for 9000
daily reports back in September?  I was recently looking back at the
"Rainy Days" report and discovered that when all the late reports came
in this fall, we eventually did reach 9000.  On September 22  we
received 9012 daily precipitation reports and on September 23rd we had
9003.  We did it -- a new CoCoRaHS record!  Thanks!

We'll wait for winter to pass, but some time this spring or early
summer, let's try for 10,000.  That will be a real milestone.


National Western Stock Show

Our presentation on the weather and climate of Colorado is scheduled for
Tuesday, January 12th at 3 PM at the Beef Palace Auction Arena located
on the lower level of the Hall of Education, near the NW Club entrance
in Denver, Colorado.  Perhaps I'll see a few of you there.


WeatherFest  -- Atlanta

The American Meteorological Society's Annual Meeting brings together
thousands of weather professionals from across the country and around
the world.  This year, the AMS 90th annual meeting is in Atlanta, GA
starting in just over a week.  The conference kicks off on Sunday,
January 17th at the Georgia World Congress Center with WeatherFest 2010
-- an educational event for anyone (kids and adults) interested in
weather stuff.  Here is the link to the specific details.  It runs from
noon to 4 PM..

http://www.ametsoc.org/MEET/ANNUAL/weatherfest.html

CoCoRaHS will be there!!   Thanks to a generous donation from HDR (a
nationwide engineering and consulting firm          http://hdrinc.com/)
we will have a "squeeze the water out of the cloud" display and
competition to see who can collect the most rain in a CoCoRaHS rain
gauge.  It should be a lot of fun.  If you or people you know will be in
or near Atlanta on Sunday, January 17th, please come by and see us!


Another Goodbye

Last week I got the word that one of our dedicated observers from the
Texas panhandle died suddenly from a heart attack a few days after
Christmas.  Dang it, I'm so sorry.  He wrote us letters of encouragement
as often as he could the last several years and provided great comments
on severe weather, Texas drought, and on animal and human behavior.
We're a little poorer today with his passing.

This has become a natural part of CoCoRaHS that we somehow never planned
or prepared for when we started the project.   --  losing good friends
and fellow weather enthusiasts.  But with our community of over 10,000
volunteers, many of whom are 65 or older,  the actuarial charts tell us
this will happen.  While it stings, I still appreciate hearing back, so
if you know of fellow volunteers who are ailing or have passed on, do
let me know.


Sunrise

It's now 6:40 AM and it's still dark. But looking at the sunrise -
sunset calendar it looks like starting tomorrow the morning light will
be coming earlier.  Hurray!


Talk to you soon again, and thanks for being a part of CoCoRaHS.
Remember, if your e-mail address has or will be changing, please let us
know so we can update our database.  If you don't want to receive these
messages, let me know and we'll make sure we remove you from the list.

Nolan Doesken
CoCoRaHS
Colorado State University

The National Weather Service has opened up a TOLL FREE Hotline for reporting
Severe Weather. This Hotline is for the Public as well as Trained SKYWARN
Spotters.

YOU MUST READ THE ENTIRE POST PRIOR TO REPORTING.
The number is posted at the bottom of this notice.

The National Weather Service encourages everyone to report severe weather.

HOW TO REPORT SEVERE WEATHER USING THIS SYSTEM

in order to use this system you must know your,

1: Latitude Longitude by Degrees and Minutes

2: Or Zip Code

If either of these two items are not available then you must leave a very
detailed voice message at the end as to your location

What State are you in,
What County are you in,
What City are you in or closest to,
What is the nearest cross street, highway or interstate,
What mile post,
What is a well known Landmark,
What direction is the storm or event from your location
Is it still occurring,
what direction is it moving I.E. North, South, East, or West.

Be as detailed, in your report and location as possible IDENTIFY YOUR SELF WITH
YOUR NAME PHONE NUMBER, ADDRESS AND CoCoRaHS Station Number
When Prompted to leave a Voice Message.

When Prompted to leave a Voice Message, Remain Calm. Make sure you are in a safe
location. The NWS would much rather not
receive a report if it puts your safety in jeopardy.
YOUR SAFETY COMES FIRST!!!

Be as descriptive as possible, include thickness of tree limbs, rainfall
amounts and any damage or weather occurrence you feel is important to report.

SEVERE WEATHER REPORTING GUIDE LINES FOR WASHINGTON STATE

WESTERN WASHINGTON REGION

1: TORNADO: A violently rotating column of air IN CONTACT with the ground and
extending from the base of a thunderstorm.
Visual Key: is there dust & debris being picked up below the funnel

2: FUNNEL CLOUD: Violently rotating column of air that is not in contact with
the ground.
Visual Key: Look below the Funnel for Dust and debris being picked up if there
is then it is a Tornado

TORNADO, WATERSPOUT, FUNNEL CLOUD, WALL CLOUD -

Location, time, and direction of movement. Is it still visible? Watch for
rotation in the cloud(s). Any damage?

HAIL - Pea-sized or larger. Any damage?

LIGHTNING - Frequent (4 or more per minute) cloud-to-ground lightning inforested
areas.

DAMAGING WINDS - Trees/power lines knocked down, damage to homes, etc. If you
have an anemometer, report any sustained winds over 35 MPH or gusts over 50 mph.
You Can also use the Beaufort Scale for an estimate. Note: sustained winds are a
one
minute average.

HEAVY RAIN - One-half (0.50) inch in one hour. Two inches or more in 24 hours or
less. Has it ended?

FLOODING - OF ANY KIND! Are waters rising or falling? Any damage, mud or rock
slides, and/or roads blocked?

SNOW - One inch accumulation or more in three hours. 4 inches in 12 hours or
less.

FREEZING PRECIPITATION - Any accumulation of sleet or freezing rain / drizzle.

POOR VISIBILITY - Reduced visibility adversely impacting transportation. Less
than one-half miles for DENSE FOG and BLOWING SNOW.
BLOWING DUST and VOLCANIC ASH. Less than 300 feet

SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON REGION

1: TORNADO: A violently rotating column of air IN CONTACT with the ground and
extending from the base of a thunderstorm.
Visual Key: is there dust & debries being picked up below the funnel

2: FUNNEL CLOUD: Violently rotating column of air that is not in contact with
the ground.
Visual Key: Look below the Funnel for Dust and debris being picked up if there
is then it is a Tornado

Wind: 50 mph or stronger
Hail: 3/4 inch (penny or dime size) or larger in diameter
Flooding: Any significant amount of water in normally dry areas
River Flooding: Any river rising above their normal bank level
Heavy Rain: Rain rates of 1 inch per hour or greater
And - Rain greater than 1 inch in 24 hours
Heavy Snow: Call while snowing at a rate of 1 inch per hour or greater
And - Call with total snow fall if >= 1 inch when the snow ends
Low Visibilities: Visibility less than 1/2 mile due to fog, dust, rain, or snow
Freezing Rain: Any freezing rain

EASTERN WASHINGTON REGION

FUNNEL CLOUD OR TORNADO
1: TORNADO: A violently rotating column of air IN CONTACT with the ground and
extending from the base of a thunderstorm.
Visual Key: is there dust & debries being picked up below the funnel

2: FUNNEL CLOUD: Violently rotating column of air that is not in contact with
the ground.
Visual Key: Look below the Funnel for Dust and debris being picked up if there
is then it is a Tornado

HAIL
Pea-sized or larger

STRONG WINDS
30 mph+ or winds that produce any damage. Estimate using Beaufort chart.

HEAVY RAINFALL
0.50 inch in one hour - showery
1 inch in 12 hrs or 1.5 inches in 24 hrs – steady rain

FLOODING
Of any kind...including possible dam or levee failure. Watch for changing water
levels.

SNOW
2 inches or more – valleys
6 inches or more - mountains

MIXED PRECIPITATION
Any freezing rain or sleet

POOR VISIBILITY
One half mile or less in blowing dust or snow etc.

TRAVEL PROBLEMS DUE TO WEATHER
Conditions where poor or hazardous travel conditions observed or reported

ANY DAMAGE, INJURY OR LOSS OF LIFE DUE TO WEATHER
Be sure to include location, time and specific cause

SOUTH CENTRAL WASHINGTON REGION

1: TORNADO: A violently rotating column of air IN CONTACT with the ground and
extending from the base of a thunderstorm.
Visual Key: is there dust & debries being picked up below the funnel

2: FUNNEL CLOUD: Violently rotating column of air that is not in contact with
the ground.
Visual Key: Look below the Funnel for Dust and debris being picked up if there
is then it is a Tornado
Location, time and direction of movement.

Hail: Pea size or larger.

Lightning: Continuous lightning (more than 6 flashes per minute).

Heavy Rain: Half an inch or more per hour. Report heavy rain even if you are
outside a flood prone area.

Heavy Snow: Accumulations of four inches in 12 hours or one inch per hour.

Flooding: Of ANY kind, including dam or levee failure. Are waters rising or
falling?

Damaging Wind: Trees or power lines knocked down, damage to buildings, etc.
Report any wind of at least 40 mph using the Beaufort Scale.

Fog, Blowing Dust, Blowing Snow: Report initial onslaught of event when poor
visibility impacts travel.

Freezing Rain: Report initial onslaught of event when it impacts travel.
Mudslides: Any event causing damage or road closure.

NATIONAL SEVERE WEATHER REPORTING HOT LINE 877-633-6772

CoCoRaHS OBSERVER
TRAINING ANNOUNCEMENT


Date: Wednesday, January 27th, 2010
Time: 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.
Location: Snohomish County Department of Emergency Management

CoCoRaHS of Snohomish County in cooperation with
Snohomish County Office of Emergency Management,

Will be providing comprehensive CoCoRaHS Observer training to new and veteran
Observers, including citizens, and those affiliated with emergency management.
Observers are needed throughout all of Snohomish County.
If you are interested in attending this training please contact Sean Kiaer at
snocounty.cocorahs@... to reserve your spot

PLEASE DO NOT CONTACT THE SNOHOMISH COUNTY OFFICE OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
REGARDING THIS TRAINING SESSION. ALL INQUIREIES ARE TO BE DIRECTED TO SNOHOMISH
COUNTY COCORAHS

DOOR PRIZE to be given away

A NOAA Weather Radio (Midland WR-100 with SAME Technology) will be given away as
a Door Prize (Donated by Everett Mall Best Buy)

CoCoRaHS OBSERVER
TRAINING ANNOUNCEMENT


Date: Wednesday, January 27th, 2010
Time: 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.
Location: Snohomish County Department of Emergency Management

CoCoRaHS of Snohomish County in cooperation with
Snohomish County Office of Emergency Management,

Will be providing comprehensive CoCoRaHS Observer training to new and veteran
Observers, including citizens, and those affiliated with emergency management.
Observers are needed throughout all of Snohomish County.
If you are interested in attending this training please contact Sean Kiaer at
snocounty.cocorahs@... to reserve your spot

PLEASE DO NOT CONTACT THE SNOHOMISH COUNTY OFFICE OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
REGARDING THIS TRAINING SESSION. ALL INQUIREIES ARE TO BE DIRECTED TO SNOHOMISH
COUNTY COCORAHS

DOOR PRIZE to be given away

A NOAA Weather Radio (Midland WR-100 with SAME Technology) will be given away as
a Door Prize (Donated by Everett Mall Best Buy)

The National Weather Service has opened up a TOLL FREE Hotline for reporting
Severe Weather. This Hotline is for the Public as well as Trained SKYWARN
Spotters.

YOU MUST READ THE ENTIRE POST PRIOR TO REPORTING.
The number is posted at the bottom of this notice.

The National Weather Service encourages everyone to report severe weather.

HOW TO REPORT SEVERE WEATHER USING THIS SYSTEM

in order to use this system you must know your,

1: Latitude Longitude by Degrees and Minutes

2: Or Zip Code

If either of these two items are not available then you must leave a very
detailed voice message at the end as to your location

What State are you in,
What County are you in,
What City are you in or closest to,
What is the nearest cross street, highway or interstate,
What mile post,
What is a well known Landmark,
What direction is the storm or event from your location
Is it still occurring,
what direction is it moving I.E. North, South, East, or West.

Be as detailed, in your report and location as possible IDENTIFY YOUR SELF WITH
YOUR NAME PHONE NUMBER, ADDRESS AND CoCoRaHS Station Number
When Prompted to leave a Voice Message.

When Prompted to leave a Voice Message, Remain Calm. Make sure you are in a safe
location. The NWS would much rather not
receive a report if it puts your safety in jeopardy.
YOUR SAFETY COMES FIRST!!!

Be as descriptive as possible, include thickness of tree limbs, rainfall
amounts and any damage or weather occurrence you feel is important to report.

SEVERE WEATHER REPORTING GUIDE LINES FOR WASHINGTON STATE

WESTERN WASHINGTON REGION

1: TORNADO: A violently rotating column of air IN CONTACT with the ground and
extending from the base of a thunderstorm.
Visual Key: is there dust & debris being picked up below the funnel

2: FUNNEL CLOUD: Violently rotating column of air that is not in contact with
the ground.
Visual Key: Look below the Funnel for Dust and debris being picked up if there
is then it is a Tornado

TORNADO, WATERSPOUT, FUNNEL CLOUD, WALL CLOUD -

Location, time, and direction of movement. Is it still visible? Watch for
rotation in the cloud(s). Any damage?

HAIL - Pea-sized or larger. Any damage?

LIGHTNING - Frequent (4 or more per minute) cloud-to-ground lightning inforested
areas.

DAMAGING WINDS - Trees/power lines knocked down, damage to homes, etc. If you
have an anemometer, report any sustained winds over 35 MPH or gusts over 50 mph.
You Can also use the Beaufort Scale for an estimate. Note: sustained winds are a
one
minute average.

HEAVY RAIN - One-half (0.50) inch in one hour. Two inches or more in 24 hours or
less. Has it ended?

FLOODING - OF ANY KIND! Are waters rising or falling? Any damage, mud or rock
slides, and/or roads blocked?

SNOW - One inch accumulation or more in three hours. 4 inches in 12 hours or
less.

FREEZING PRECIPITATION - Any accumulation of sleet or freezing rain / drizzle.

POOR VISIBILITY - Reduced visibility adversely impacting transportation. Less
than one-half miles for DENSE FOG and BLOWING SNOW.
BLOWING DUST and VOLCANIC ASH. Less than 300 feet

SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON REGION

1: TORNADO: A violently rotating column of air IN CONTACT with the ground and
extending from the base of a thunderstorm.
Visual Key: is there dust & debries being picked up below the funnel

2: FUNNEL CLOUD: Violently rotating column of air that is not in contact with
the ground.
Visual Key: Look below the Funnel for Dust and debris being picked up if there
is then it is a Tornado

Wind: 50 mph or stronger
Hail: 3/4 inch (penny or dime size) or larger in diameter
Flooding: Any significant amount of water in normally dry areas
River Flooding: Any river rising above their normal bank level
Heavy Rain: Rain rates of 1 inch per hour or greater
And - Rain greater than 1 inch in 24 hours
Heavy Snow: Call while snowing at a rate of 1 inch per hour or greater
And - Call with total snow fall if >= 1 inch when the snow ends
Low Visibilities: Visibility less than 1/2 mile due to fog, dust, rain, or snow
Freezing Rain: Any freezing rain

EASTERN WASHINGTON REGION

FUNNEL CLOUD OR TORNADO
1: TORNADO: A violently rotating column of air IN CONTACT with the ground and
extending from the base of a thunderstorm.
Visual Key: is there dust & debries being picked up below the funnel

2: FUNNEL CLOUD: Violently rotating column of air that is not in contact with
the ground.
Visual Key: Look below the Funnel for Dust and debris being picked up if there
is then it is a Tornado

HAIL
Pea-sized or larger

STRONG WINDS
30 mph+ or winds that produce any damage. Estimate using Beaufort chart.

HEAVY RAINFALL
0.50 inch in one hour - showery
1 inch in 12 hrs or 1.5 inches in 24 hrs – steady rain

FLOODING
Of any kind...including possible dam or levee failure. Watch for changing water
levels.

SNOW
2 inches or more – valleys
6 inches or more - mountains

MIXED PRECIPITATION
Any freezing rain or sleet

POOR VISIBILITY
One half mile or less in blowing dust or snow etc.

TRAVEL PROBLEMS DUE TO WEATHER
Conditions where poor or hazardous travel conditions observed or reported

ANY DAMAGE, INJURY OR LOSS OF LIFE DUE TO WEATHER
Be sure to include location, time and specific cause

SOUTH CENTRAL WASHINGTON REGION

1: TORNADO: A violently rotating column of air IN CONTACT with the ground and
extending from the base of a thunderstorm.
Visual Key: is there dust & debries being picked up below the funnel

2: FUNNEL CLOUD: Violently rotating column of air that is not in contact with
the ground.
Visual Key: Look below the Funnel for Dust and debris being picked up if there
is then it is a Tornado
Location, time and direction of movement.

Hail: Pea size or larger.

Lightning: Continuous lightning (more than 6 flashes per minute).

Heavy Rain: Half an inch or more per hour. Report heavy rain even if you are
outside a flood prone area.

Heavy Snow: Accumulations of four inches in 12 hours or one inch per hour.

Flooding: Of ANY kind, including dam or levee failure. Are waters rising or
falling?

Damaging Wind: Trees or power lines knocked down, damage to buildings, etc.
Report any wind of at least 40 mph using the Beaufort Scale.

Fog, Blowing Dust, Blowing Snow: Report initial onslaught of event when poor
visibility impacts travel.

Freezing Rain: Report initial onslaught of event when it impacts travel.
Mudslides: Any event causing damage or road closure.

NATIONAL SEVERE WEATHER REPORTING HOT LINE 877-633-6772

Good evening CoCoRaHS rain gaugers

Welcome to all of you who have recently joined the CoCoRaHS team
(Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow network)  Each new
volunteer with your backyard rain gauge represents a new and valued data
point on the U.S. maps.
http://www.cocorahs.org/Maps/ViewMap.aspx?state=usa
Thanks for helping out as we work together to measure and track
precipitation from coast to coast.


CoCoRaHS fund raising update

There are just 6 days left in our "Five for CoCoRaHS" campaign.  Our
goal to raise $30,000 had seemed like a wild stretch and I thought we'd
never get there.  But it now looks like we might actually make it.
Nearly 1400 of us have already sent in donations totally over $27,000.
There is still time to help.

In this last week of the campaign, we need 400 more $5 donations.  That
will bring us very close to $30,000.  I realize that you already donate
your time, and that's what matters most.  But if you could spare just a
few dollars for a good cause, we would appreciate it greatly.

Here is the link to donate online.
http://www.cocorahs.org/Content.aspx?page=donate5

You will also find instructions there on how to send in donations by
mail.   The funds are received by the Colorado State University
Foundation and 100% of the proceeds (not counting the cost of the
t-shirts and sweatshirts that some of you will receive) are given to
CoCoRaHS.  These funds are going to pay for the costs of maintaining our
computer, server and database expenses while also providing some salary
support for our staff.  Thanks so much for helping!!


A Splash in Atlanta

We had an absolute blast at the Atlanta Convention Center for the
American Meteorological Society's annual WeatherFest on January 17th..
Several hundred children and a few dozen adults competed in the first
ever CoCoRaHS "Squeeze the rain out of the cloud" contest vying to see
who could get the most water out of their sponges and into a CoCoRaHS
rain gauge in 10 seconds..  We were assisted by CoCoRaHS volunteer
leaders from FL, GA, IL, TX, AZ, CO, NJ, KY and probably somewhere else
that I'm forgetting  -- all there attending the 90th annual meeting of
the American Meteorological Society.  The winners managed to squeeze
more than 4" of rain into the gauge.  In the process, we got a little
wet and we also got to meet several of our loyal Georgia volunteers from
the Atlanta area.  We also signed up some new weather enthusiasts who
found out about CoCoRaHS for the first time.  Again, let me thank HDR
http://www.hdrinc.com/   for sponsoring CoCoRaHS at the 2010 AMS
Weatherfest.

CoCoRaHS was also mentioned in several of the scientific presentations
given last week at the convention.  While we may be "low tech" the fact
is that good, reliable precipitation measurements are in high demand.
For those of you who have asked "Does anyone ever look at our data?"
please know that the answer is a resounding YES!  CoCoRaHS precipitation
data are being used every day of the year in a variety of research and
weather forecasting  and hydrologic applications.  The longer we keep
collecting data, the more research and climatological applications are
emerging.  I'll elaborate on this when we have more time and give
specific examples.  You may be surprised at just how important our rain
and snow measurements really are.


Hurray for CA, NV and  AZ

After months of little or nothing to report, our CA,  AZ and southern NV
CoCoRaHS volunteers were put to a test this past week and passed with
flying colors.  Nearly 400 Californians and over 300 Arizonians measured
and reported the heavy rains.  Totals for the past 9 days in Arizona
exceeded 8" of water content (and a lot of wet snow up around Flagstaff)
in some areas.  Even Phoenix managed 2-3" rainfall totals.   Iin
California there were many CoCoRaHS precipitation totals over 12".  Good
job.  Your patience paid off.  Thanks, also, for those who made the
extra effort to send in "Significant Weather Reports" to report the
heavy rains and mountains snows as they fell.  Those reports can be
submitted at any time day or night and help notify NWS forecast offices
of significant weather in progress.  Fell free to submit "Significant
Weather Reports" at any time you are receiving heavy rain, heavy snow or
are observing other phenomenon of interest.


Glaciers retreating.

I'm referring to the ice in our horse corrals.  We haven't had any new
snow now for over two weeks here in Fort Collins, CO.  The ground is
still mostly white, and the ice patches on the side of the roads are
thick and slippery.  But  gradually more bare ground is showing.  The
ice in the corral and around the barn is downright nasty, and I won't
comment about my efforts to clean up after the horses.  A pick axe would
be needed, I'm afraid.  But it's getting better.  As of today, the
official Colorado State University weather station has had continuous
snow cover for 50 days.  It's now only 2" deep on average -- mostly
solid ice.  That snow/ice will need to last two more weeks to have a
chance of tying the record for longest continuous snow cover.  That
seems unlikely now that the sun is higher in the sky each day.

There is good news to report from our little farm.  Our little barn cat,
Mittens, showed up this evening.  She had been missing for a couple of
days and feared lost -- possibly at the hands (talons) of the Great
Horned Owl that lives nearby.  But alas, my fears were unwarranted.
She was just out hunting, I guess.  The longer daylength  has brought
new enthusiasm to our hens, and egg production  has picked up
noticeable.  After nearly a two month lull, they are now laying more
eggs than we can eat.


Reporting Depth of Snow on Ground

We've had a lot of questions about reporting total depth of snow on the
ground  -- especially on days when no new snow has fallen.  Yes, if you
can make a reasonable estimate of the average depth of the old snow
remaining on the ground each day when you take your daily measurements,
that data is appreciated.  The depth of snow is used by weather
forecasters to help improve local temperature forecasts.  Areas with
snow lingering on the ground are typically a lot colder than areas where
the snow never accumulated or already melted.  Likewise, remnant snow
cover also affects soil temperatures, soil moisture and the water
available for runoff and potential flooding when that snow melts.  So if
you can get a measurement, even if it's approximate, please send it in.
Likewise, if you can get a measurement of the water equivalent of that
old snow on the ground, that's valuable too.  Right now, while we only
have about 2" of snow left on the ground here, it's very icy and
contains nearly 1.00" of water.  The default value on our computer
system is NA, so just type your reading into the box and replace the
NA.  If you don't have snow on the ground, please type in 0.0"

Zero is better than nothing

Please remember that it is very, very helpful to report even when no
precipitation has fallen.  The more complete your data records, the more
useful the data are to us and the many others who are looking at
CoCoRaHS data.  Don't forget that we have the "Monthly Zeros" report to
make it easy to go back and fill in the days when it didn't rain or snow.


CoCoRaHS on youtube

We got an e-mail this morning from North Dakota with a link to a youtube
video.  It was posted by a Fargo, ND TV meteorologist.  Here's the
link.  It's very good.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HKlpFuaLw0I

I don't have much time or inclination to explore youtube, but while I
was watching the ND video, I noticed that several other CoCoRaHS videos
have been posted including a series of training videos posted by New
Mexico State University.  Take a look.


Signing off

Thanks again for helping with CoCoRaHS.  This is a team effort.   If you
happen to be in Colorado this week and have plans to visit the Colorado
Farm Show in Greeley, we'll be there this Wednesday.  Stop by the
National Weather Service booth.

Sincerely,

Nolan Doesken
Colorado State University

During our Jan 27th training class there was a discussion about recording our
data on paper, as a backup to the CoCoRaHS website.
There are printable forms available and also an Excel Spreadsheet that is
downloadable from CoCoRaHS.
If you have not yet done so, just go to the CoCoRaHS website and on the left
side under 'Resources' look for printable forms.  There are a few options to
choose from, I prefer the 'Precipitation Report (in Excel Form)'.  This form
allows you to enter daily reports for each month and graphs the rainfall for
your recordings. In this program there are also sheets that display Total
Precipitation, Total Snowfall, Trace Rain and Total Days of Preciptation.
Enjoy.

George Boswell, WA-SN-54

--- In cocorahs_wa@yahoogroups.com, "George, K7YHB" <K7yhb@...> wrote:
>
> During our Jan 27th training class there was a discussion about recording our
data on paper, as a backup to the CoCoRaHS website.
> There are printable forms available and also an Excel Spreadsheet that is
downloadable from CoCoRaHS.
> If you have not yet done so, just go to the CoCoRaHS website and on the left
side under 'Resources' look for printable forms.  There are a few options to
choose from, I prefer the 'Precipitation Report (in Excel Form)'.  This form
allows you to enter daily reports for each month and graphs the rainfall for
your recordings. In this program there are also sheets that display Total
Precipitation, Total Snowfall, Trace Rain and Total Days of Preciptation.
> Enjoy.
>
> George Boswell, WA-SN-54
>

George

I got a weather station from Santa and have been using that form daily since the
1st of the year. When I went though the training a couple years a couple year
ago I was assigned Lewis 6.

On the spreadsheet, there is a heading Section for Stn Name and Stn number.
Could you help me out? If my observer number is Lewis 6 .... what is my Stn name
and Stn number? Confused as usual. I enjoy recording this daily information for
my personal information, but is this something I should send to someone? I am
still confused about the difference between the observer for Skywarn and
CoCoRaHA.

kim - ac7yy
Lewis 6

Kim,

It sounds like 'Lewis 6' is your Skywarn ID, mine is Snohomish 121.

If you are logging on to the CoCoRaHS website to report your weather information
on the 'Daily Precipitation Report Form', your station number and name is at the
top of that form. All other information you would fill in at the top of the
Excel Spreadsheet is available at the CoCoRaHS website after you login.

If you are currently not a CoCoRaHS member please go to the website at
cocorahs.org and at the right hand side of the page there is an Icon that says
'Join CoCoRaHS click here'.  Just click this and it will take you to a sign up
page.  It's all free and a lot of fun.  After joining you will be issued a
Station Number and Name.

I hope this helps.  If you have any further questions, you can email me directly
at k7yhb@....

73,
George, K7YHB
WA-SN-54
Snohomish 121


>
> George
>
> I got a weather station from Santa and have been using that form daily since
the 1st of the year. When I went though the training a couple years a couple
year ago I was assigned Lewis 6.
>
> On the spreadsheet, there is a heading Section for Stn Name and Stn number.
Could you help me out? If my observer number is Lewis 6 .... what is my Stn name
and Stn number? Confused as usual. I enjoy recording this daily information for
my personal information, but is this something I should send to someone? I am
still confused about the difference between the observer for Skywarn and
CoCoRaHA.
>
> kim - ac7yy
> Lewis 6
>

Dear CoCoRaHS volunteers, family and friends:

Good morning and happy groundhog day!


Southern Snow

  From West Texas to Georgia, South Carolina and up to Delaware, many of
you got a chance to measure and report snow sleet and freezing rain
these past few days. Good job. We received a few "interesting" reports
as folks not accustomed to snow tried to figure out what to do. There
were some 5.00 and 6.00" reports of "rain and melted snow" where well
meaning enthusiastic weather observers measured the accumulation of new
snow and then reported that as the precipitation amount. Alas you need
to melt it first to get the water content. Others tried to report 0.00"
for the precipitation amount, thinking that if it snowed that you
shouldn't report a value for "rain and melted snow". Oh well. With
practice, we get better.


Celebration

1) It's groundhog day -- a traditional day for meteorological musings,
fun and frolic. It's not because we believe a shadow from a ground hog
means anything and not because winter is ever over so soon. But when
we've made it to February 2, the coldest and darkest part of winter is
almost always behind us. Farm, garden and yard work will be coming soon.

  From the time I was a small child of 4 or 5 back in central Illinois,
groundhog day was special. My father somehow sensed my early
meteorological curiosity and often had a story to share. He kept a daily
journal of weather conditions and he would sometimes pull out the
journal and show me what February and March weather conditions had been
in previous years. There was usually an article in the local newspaper,
too. I recall stories about 1899 when on Feb 2 the winter was just
getting started. In the following days, temperatures dropped below zero
Fahrenheit all the way down to northern Florida. Here in northern
Colorado we had many days below -30F in February 1899 and more than 200
inches of snow fell in the mountains cutting off access to the old
mining towns like Aspen and Crested Butte. By comparison, this year
looks pretty bland.

2) I am very pleased to announce the results of our "Five for CoCoRaHS"
fund raising campaign.. Thanks to nearly 400 donations the last week of
January, a total of $35,000 was received since mid December to help keep
CoCoRaHS going this year. More than 1700 individual donations were
received. Some are still trickling in. Most came in the form of $5
donations, but quite a few chose to give more. The CoCoRaHS staff and I
are most grateful and appreciative. We will do our best to put these
funds to good use for the project.. We still have our work cut out for
us, but now we can go to the organizations that use our data and show
them just how involved and committed the CoCoRaHS team really is.

While the official campaign is over, we'll still be able to receive
contributions through the year. If you know of individuals or
organizations who are benefiting from CoCoRaHS, encourage them to help.
There is a "Donate" button on the CoCoRaHS homepage at
http://www.cocorahs.org


Flooding ahead? Please measure the SWE

I received a call yesterday from the National Operational Hydrologic
Remote Sensing Center up in Minnesota. They along with the National
Weather Service River Forecast Center are carefully watching the deep
snow over the northern plains and are concerned about another spring of
possible flooding. A lot can happen, of course between now and early
April, but there is enough water in the existing snow that has been
sitting on the ground now for many weeks to cause immediate concern.

Why did they call me? Because they utilize CoCoRaHS data. They
specifically asked me to encourage our volunteers to try to measure and
report SWE. SWE stands for "Snow Water Equivalent" and it refers to the
amount of water in the snow that remains on the ground. I realize it's
not all that easy to go out in the morning and take a core sample of
that deep snow and then melt and measure it. But if you can -- even if
it's just a few times a week -- please do. Remember, you may need a
spatula to help keep the granular snow from falling out when you pull
the cylinder back up out of the snow. And if the snow is deeper than
about 12-15" you may need to take more than one core to get all the snow
down to ground level. Our plastic gauges aren't strong enough to
penetrate through layers of ice in the old snow, but do your best. Our
data could help improve the accuracy of flood forecasts in the weeks ahead.

I've been amazed watching our SWE here in Fort Collins. The snow that
was 9-10" deep a month ago and held nearly 1" of water is now down to
just 1-2" in depth. But guess what? The water content of that remaining
snow is now over 1" The structure of the snow has changed completely. I
nearly cut myself on the icy crystals the other morning. While the snow
seems to be disappearing, most of the water is still there and has not
evaporated or soaked into the frozen ground.

We have instructions on how to measure SWE in our training materials,
but they don't cover all the difficult situations you might encounter.
Having a scale to measure the weight of the snow makes the measurement
much quicker and easier. I wish we had a source of funds to buy better
equipment for everyone who lives in deep snow country, but make the best
of it and help if you can. If you have more questions, please contact
your local CoCoRaHS coordinator.

All,

It was brought to my attention that the message I sent out early today
seemed to end abruptly. I checked, and sure enough it quit part way
through. Here is the rest of the story. Sorry for the inconvenience..


Will there be drought?

Floods, blizzards, hurricanes, tornadoes and hail get the bulk of media
attention. But year in and year out it is drought here in the U.S. and
across the world that is the most costly natural disaster. Fortunately
as we move towards spring 2010, drought conditions have softened across
the country. The extreme south Texas drought of 2009 has nearly ended
and the huge rains in January helped alleviate some of the drought in AZ
and CA.

History shows us time after time that drought will re-emerge --
somewhere.. Despite our best efforts, it remains a difficult challenge
to predict months in advance where the next large drought will develop.
We just need to be watchful and ready.

Through CoCoRaHS, we are helping monitor drought conditions in the
country. But drought is not just about how much precipitation falls or
fails to fall. It is the consequences of insufficient precipitation that
can make life difficult.

Beginning this week, if all goes well, we will be adding a new feature
to CoCoRaHS. It will be possible for each and every one of us to report
"Drought Impacts" via the CoCoRaHS website. Drought impacts can be as
minor as your lawn turning brown to as major as wells going dry, water
restrictions, shriveled crops, dry streambeds and much more.

At this time of year, there are likely few if any major drought impacts
occurring. This is sure to change in the weeks and months ahead as warm
temperatures arrive and thirsty vegetation springs back to life.. Stay
tuned as we provide more information on how to determine and report
drought impacts. When that time comes in your area please help us. Visit
www.drought.gov to learn more about drought and what we can do about it.


Mud by day, ice by night

I learn a lot about the hydrologic cycle as I do the daily chores on our
little farm. In the morning the ground is solid ice, but by afternoon
there is a layer of slimy mud.. Shortly after sunset it's back to ice
again. The north side stays ice covered regardless of temperature and
the ground there may be frozen 2-3 feet down.

A number of you have asked about Angel. Angel, the huge Great Pyrenees
we got from the rescue a few years ago, now lives next door with our
son. It works out well since it puts more space between the dog and our
chickens. But lately Angel has been showing up at our gate almost every
day. She's found a way to open one of the gates next door. She then
strolls down the road past our house and over to the neighbors where
there is a gap in the fence. From there, she wades through the snow
drifts in the pasture and then arrives near our back gate. What a dog --
all 138 pounds. So far, she's just happy to see us and has left the
chickens alone. What an angel.


Horse Thieves

We had a break in Sunday AM.. The tack room in the barn was raided and
most of the grain and feed supplements were stolen. We didn't have to go
far, however, to find the culprits. Our three brown horses all had
chunks of feed sacks around their feet and loose oats on their whiskers.
Clearly guilty!. We must have left the latch unlocked and the horses
figured out how to open the door. They've had some indigestion this
week, but they are getting over it.


And finally -- buds, blossoms, migrations and more

Many of us watch more than weather. What we observe in our own backyards
and neighborhoods can be very helpful to a variety of scientists. If you
are a chronic "watcher" and would like to help study climate from a
different perspective, here is an invitation that I just received
yesterday. I planted 4 special lilac bushes as a part of this project
more than a year ago. They grew great last year thanks to our cool, wet
summer. This year they may be big enough to bloom.

The USA-National Phenology Network – Taking the Pulse of Our Planet

Join the effort to track plants and animals’ responses to weather and
climate! Citizens and scientists alike are monitoring plant and animal
/phenology/ to better understand the impacts of climate change.**

/ /People have tracked phenology for centuries - for the most practical
of reasons – when to plant and harvest crops, navigate waterways and
manage livestock, manage wildlife and fisheries. Now phenology provides
an invaluable tool to assess climate change and its effects.

*What is Phenology? **//*

Phenology is the study of the seasonal timing of cyclical life events,
which include bird, fish, and mammal migrations; insect emergence; plant
leafing, blooming, fruiting, and changing of leaf colors in autumn;
egg-laying; and emergence from hibernation. Phenological events are
sensitive to weather and climate, which makes them an important living
ba­rometer, or indicator, of their environment.

*Why Observe?*

The USA-NPN is enlisting professional and citizen scientists, students,
stewards of public and private lands, amateur naturalists, gardeners and
other outdoor enthusiasts. By joining the USA-NPN, you can help compile
information on phenological responses to weather and climate. You can
make a difference by recording your observations, which will then be
used to provide information for a wide range of decisions made routinely
by individual citizens and by the nation and a whole.

*How can I participate?*

Learn more about which species you can monitor, what to look for, and
how to report your observations at www.usanpn.org <http://www.usanpn.org/>.


Thanks so much for being a part of CoCoRaHS. Please tell others about
the project as there are still so many areas where we have few or no
gauges.

Nolan
Colorado State University

The National Weather Service has opened up a TOLL FREE Hotline for reporting
Severe Weather. This Hotline is for the Public as well as Trained SKYWARN
Spotters.

YOU MUST READ THE ENTIRE POST PRIOR TO REPORTING.
The number is posted at the bottom of this notice.

The National Weather Service encourages everyone to report severe weather.

HOW TO REPORT SEVERE WEATHER USING THIS SYSTEM

in order to use this system you must know your,

1: Latitude Longitude by Degrees and Minutes

2: Or Zip Code

If either of these two items are not available then you must leave a very
detailed voice message at the end as to your location

What State are you in,
What County are you in,
What City are you in or closest to,
What is the nearest cross street, highway or interstate,
What mile post,
What is a well known Landmark,
What direction is the storm or event from your location
Is it still occurring,
what direction is it moving I.E. North, South, East, or West.

Be as detailed, in your report and location as possible IDENTIFY YOUR SELF WITH
YOUR NAME PHONE NUMBER, ADDRESS AND CoCoRaHS Station Number
When Prompted to leave a Voice Message.

When Prompted to leave a Voice Message, Remain Calm. Make sure you are in a safe
location. The NWS would much rather not
receive a report if it puts your safety in jeopardy.
YOUR SAFETY COMES FIRST!!!

Be as descriptive as possible, include thickness of tree limbs, rainfall
amounts and any damage or weather occurrence you feel is important to report.

SEVERE WEATHER REPORTING GUIDE LINES FOR WASHINGTON STATE

WESTERN WASHINGTON REGION

1: TORNADO: A violently rotating column of air IN CONTACT with the ground and
extending from the base of a thunderstorm.
Visual Key: is there dust & debris being picked up below the funnel

2: FUNNEL CLOUD: Violently rotating column of air that is not in contact with
the ground.
Visual Key: Look below the Funnel for Dust and debris being picked up if there
is then it is a Tornado

TORNADO, WATERSPOUT, FUNNEL CLOUD, WALL CLOUD -

Location, time, and direction of movement. Is it still visible? Watch for
rotation in the cloud(s). Any damage?

HAIL - Pea-sized or larger. Any damage?

LIGHTNING - Frequent (4 or more per minute) cloud-to-ground lightning inforested
areas.

DAMAGING WINDS - Trees/power lines knocked down, damage to homes, etc. If you
have an anemometer, report any sustained winds over 35 MPH or gusts over 50 mph.
You Can also use the Beaufort Scale for an estimate. Note: sustained winds are a
one
minute average.

HEAVY RAIN - One-half (0.50) inch in one hour. Two inches or more in 24 hours or
less. Has it ended?

FLOODING - OF ANY KIND! Are waters rising or falling? Any damage, mud or rock
slides, and/or roads blocked?

SNOW - One inch accumulation or more in three hours. 4 inches in 12 hours or
less.

FREEZING PRECIPITATION - Any accumulation of sleet or freezing rain / drizzle.

POOR VISIBILITY - Reduced visibility adversely impacting transportation. Less
than one-half miles for DENSE FOG and BLOWING SNOW.
BLOWING DUST and VOLCANIC ASH. Less than 300 feet

SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON REGION

1: TORNADO: A violently rotating column of air IN CONTACT with the ground and
extending from the base of a thunderstorm.
Visual Key: is there dust & debries being picked up below the funnel

2: FUNNEL CLOUD: Violently rotating column of air that is not in contact with
the ground.
Visual Key: Look below the Funnel for Dust and debris being picked up if there
is then it is a Tornado

Wind: 50 mph or stronger
Hail: 3/4 inch (penny or dime size) or larger in diameter
Flooding: Any significant amount of water in normally dry areas
River Flooding: Any river rising above their normal bank level
Heavy Rain: Rain rates of 1 inch per hour or greater
And - Rain greater than 1 inch in 24 hours
Heavy Snow: Call while snowing at a rate of 1 inch per hour or greater
And - Call with total snow fall if >= 1 inch when the snow ends
Low Visibilities: Visibility less than 1/2 mile due to fog, dust, rain, or snow
Freezing Rain: Any freezing rain

EASTERN WASHINGTON REGION

FUNNEL CLOUD OR TORNADO
1: TORNADO: A violently rotating column of air IN CONTACT with the ground and
extending from the base of a thunderstorm.
Visual Key: is there dust & debries being picked up below the funnel

2: FUNNEL CLOUD: Violently rotating column of air that is not in contact with
the ground.
Visual Key: Look below the Funnel for Dust and debris being picked up if there
is then it is a Tornado

HAIL
Pea-sized or larger

STRONG WINDS
30 mph+ or winds that produce any damage. Estimate using Beaufort chart.

HEAVY RAINFALL
0.50 inch in one hour - showery
1 inch in 12 hrs or 1.5 inches in 24 hrs – steady rain

FLOODING
Of any kind...including possible dam or levee failure. Watch for changing water
levels.

SNOW
2 inches or more – valleys
6 inches or more - mountains

MIXED PRECIPITATION
Any freezing rain or sleet

POOR VISIBILITY
One half mile or less in blowing dust or snow etc.

TRAVEL PROBLEMS DUE TO WEATHER
Conditions where poor or hazardous travel conditions observed or reported

ANY DAMAGE, INJURY OR LOSS OF LIFE DUE TO WEATHER
Be sure to include location, time and specific cause

SOUTH CENTRAL WASHINGTON REGION

1: TORNADO: A violently rotating column of air IN CONTACT with the ground and
extending from the base of a thunderstorm.
Visual Key: is there dust & debries being picked up below the funnel

2: FUNNEL CLOUD: Violently rotating column of air that is not in contact with
the ground.
Visual Key: Look below the Funnel for Dust and debris being picked up if there
is then it is a Tornado
Location, time and direction of movement.

Hail: Pea size or larger.

Lightning: Continuous lightning (more than 6 flashes per minute).

Heavy Rain: Half an inch or more per hour. Report heavy rain even if you are
outside a flood prone area.

Heavy Snow: Accumulations of four inches in 12 hours or one inch per hour.

Flooding: Of ANY kind, including dam or levee failure. Are waters rising or
falling?

Damaging Wind: Trees or power lines knocked down, damage to buildings, etc.
Report any wind of at least 40 mph using the Beaufort Scale.

Fog, Blowing Dust, Blowing Snow: Report initial onslaught of event when poor
visibility impacts travel.

Freezing Rain: Report initial onslaught of event when it impacts travel.
Mudslides: Any event causing damage or road closure.

NATIONAL SEVERE WEATHER REPORTING HOT LINE 877-633-6772

CoCoRaHS OBSERVER
TRAINING ANNOUNCEMENT


Date: Wednesday, January 27th, 2010
Time: 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.
Location: Snohomish County Department of Emergency Management

CoCoRaHS of Snohomish County in cooperation with
Snohomish County Office of Emergency Management,

Will be providing comprehensive CoCoRaHS Observer training to new and veteran
Observers, including citizens, and those affiliated with emergency management.
Observers are needed throughout all of Snohomish County.
If you are interested in attending this training please contact Sean Kiaer at
snocounty.cocorahs@... to reserve your spot

PLEASE DO NOT CONTACT THE SNOHOMISH COUNTY OFFICE OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
REGARDING THIS TRAINING SESSION. ALL INQUIREIES ARE TO BE DIRECTED TO SNOHOMISH
COUNTY COCORAHS

DOOR PRIZE to be given away

A NOAA Weather Radio (Midland WR-100 with SAME Technology) will be given away as
a Door Prize (Donated by Everett Mall Best Buy)

The National Weather Service has opened up a TOLL FREE Hotline for reporting
Severe Weather. This Hotline is for the Public as well as Trained SKYWARN
Spotters.

YOU MUST READ THE ENTIRE POST PRIOR TO REPORTING.
The number is posted at the bottom of this notice.

The National Weather Service encourages everyone to report severe weather.

HOW TO REPORT SEVERE WEATHER USING THIS SYSTEM

in order to use this system you must know your,

1: Latitude Longitude by Degrees and Minutes

2: Or Zip Code

If either of these two items are not available then you must leave a very
detailed voice message at the end as to your location

What State are you in,
What County are you in,
What City are you in or closest to,
What is the nearest cross street, highway or interstate,
What mile post,
What is a well known Landmark,
What direction is the storm or event from your location
Is it still occurring,
what direction is it moving I.E. North, South, East, or West.

Be as detailed, in your report and location as possible IDENTIFY YOUR SELF WITH
YOUR NAME PHONE NUMBER, ADDRESS AND CoCoRaHS Station Number
When Prompted to leave a Voice Message.

When Prompted to leave a Voice Message, Remain Calm. Make sure you are in a safe
location. The NWS would much rather not
receive a report if it puts your safety in jeopardy.
YOUR SAFETY COMES FIRST!!!

Be as descriptive as possible, include thickness of tree limbs, rainfall
amounts and any damage or weather occurrence you feel is important to report.

SEVERE WEATHER REPORTING GUIDE LINES FOR WASHINGTON STATE

WESTERN WASHINGTON REGION

1: TORNADO: A violently rotating column of air IN CONTACT with the ground and
extending from the base of a thunderstorm.
Visual Key: is there dust & debris being picked up below the funnel

2: FUNNEL CLOUD: Violently rotating column of air that is not in contact with
the ground.
Visual Key: Look below the Funnel for Dust and debris being picked up if there
is then it is a Tornado

TORNADO, WATERSPOUT, FUNNEL CLOUD, WALL CLOUD -

Location, time, and direction of movement. Is it still visible? Watch for
rotation in the cloud(s). Any damage?

HAIL - Pea-sized or larger. Any damage?

LIGHTNING - Frequent (4 or more per minute) cloud-to-ground lightning inforested
areas.

DAMAGING WINDS - Trees/power lines knocked down, damage to homes, etc. If you
have an anemometer, report any sustained winds over 35 MPH or gusts over 50 mph.
You Can also use the Beaufort Scale for an estimate. Note: sustained winds are a
one
minute average.

HEAVY RAIN - One-half (0.50) inch in one hour. Two inches or more in 24 hours or
less. Has it ended?

FLOODING - OF ANY KIND! Are waters rising or falling? Any damage, mud or rock
slides, and/or roads blocked?

SNOW - One inch accumulation or more in three hours. 4 inches in 12 hours or
less.

FREEZING PRECIPITATION - Any accumulation of sleet or freezing rain / drizzle.

POOR VISIBILITY - Reduced visibility adversely impacting transportation. Less
than one-half miles for DENSE FOG and BLOWING SNOW.
BLOWING DUST and VOLCANIC ASH. Less than 300 feet

SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON REGION

1: TORNADO: A violently rotating column of air IN CONTACT with the ground and
extending from the base of a thunderstorm.
Visual Key: is there dust & debries being picked up below the funnel

2: FUNNEL CLOUD: Violently rotating column of air that is not in contact with
the ground.
Visual Key: Look below the Funnel for Dust and debris being picked up if there
is then it is a Tornado

Wind: 50 mph or stronger
Hail: 3/4 inch (penny or dime size) or larger in diameter
Flooding: Any significant amount of water in normally dry areas
River Flooding: Any river rising above their normal bank level
Heavy Rain: Rain rates of 1 inch per hour or greater
And - Rain greater than 1 inch in 24 hours
Heavy Snow: Call while snowing at a rate of 1 inch per hour or greater
And - Call with total snow fall if >= 1 inch when the snow ends
Low Visibilities: Visibility less than 1/2 mile due to fog, dust, rain, or snow
Freezing Rain: Any freezing rain

EASTERN WASHINGTON REGION

FUNNEL CLOUD OR TORNADO
1: TORNADO: A violently rotating column of air IN CONTACT with the ground and
extending from the base of a thunderstorm.
Visual Key: is there dust & debries being picked up below the funnel

2: FUNNEL CLOUD: Violently rotating column of air that is not in contact with
the ground.
Visual Key: Look below the Funnel for Dust and debris being picked up if there
is then it is a Tornado

HAIL
Pea-sized or larger

STRONG WINDS
30 mph+ or winds that produce any damage. Estimate using Beaufort chart.

HEAVY RAINFALL
0.50 inch in one hour - showery
1 inch in 12 hrs or 1.5 inches in 24 hrs – steady rain

FLOODING
Of any kind...including possible dam or levee failure. Watch for changing water
levels.

SNOW
2 inches or more – valleys
6 inches or more - mountains

MIXED PRECIPITATION
Any freezing rain or sleet

POOR VISIBILITY
One half mile or less in blowing dust or snow etc.

TRAVEL PROBLEMS DUE TO WEATHER
Conditions where poor or hazardous travel conditions observed or reported

ANY DAMAGE, INJURY OR LOSS OF LIFE DUE TO WEATHER
Be sure to include location, time and specific cause

SOUTH CENTRAL WASHINGTON REGION

1: TORNADO: A violently rotating column of air IN CONTACT with the ground and
extending from the base of a thunderstorm.
Visual Key: is there dust & debries being picked up below the funnel

2: FUNNEL CLOUD: Violently rotating column of air that is not in contact with
the ground.
Visual Key: Look below the Funnel for Dust and debris being picked up if there
is then it is a Tornado
Location, time and direction of movement.

Hail: Pea size or larger.

Lightning: Continuous lightning (more than 6 flashes per minute).

Heavy Rain: Half an inch or more per hour. Report heavy rain even if you are
outside a flood prone area.

Heavy Snow: Accumulations of four inches in 12 hours or one inch per hour.

Flooding: Of ANY kind, including dam or levee failure. Are waters rising or
falling?

Damaging Wind: Trees or power lines knocked down, damage to buildings, etc.
Report any wind of at least 40 mph using the Beaufort Scale.

Fog, Blowing Dust, Blowing Snow: Report initial onslaught of event when poor
visibility impacts travel.

Freezing Rain: Report initial onslaught of event when it impacts travel.
Mudslides: Any event causing damage or road closure.

NATIONAL SEVERE WEATHER REPORTING HOT LINE 877-633-6772

CoCoRaHS OBSERVER
TRAINING ANNOUNCEMENT


Date: Wednesday, January 27th, 2010
Time: 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.
Location: Snohomish County Department of Emergency Management

CoCoRaHS of Snohomish County in cooperation with
Snohomish County Office of Emergency Management,

Will be providing comprehensive CoCoRaHS Observer training to new and veteran
Observers, including citizens, and those affiliated with emergency management.
Observers are needed throughout all of Snohomish County.
If you are interested in attending this training please contact Sean Kiaer at
snocounty.cocorahs@... to reserve your spot

PLEASE DO NOT CONTACT THE SNOHOMISH COUNTY OFFICE OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
REGARDING THIS TRAINING SESSION. ALL INQUIREIES ARE TO BE DIRECTED TO SNOHOMISH
COUNTY COCORAHS

DOOR PRIZE to be given away

A NOAA Weather Radio (Midland WR-100 with SAME Technology) will be given away as
a Door Prize (Donated by Everett Mall Best Buy)

Monday Morning CoCoRaHS Greetings:

The long winter

With one week left in February, we’re waking up to the sound of snow
plows on our street once again here in northern Colorado. In fact, it’s
been snowing on and off for 4 straight days and our seasonal snowfall
total is up to almost 70 inches. Our traditionally snowiest month is
still ahead of us – March. It’s a winter wonderland out there just like
it was in late December, early December, mid November, late October.
Wait, when did winter begin this year? It’s been a long one, and it’s
not likely over yet.

Checking the CoCoRaHS map of total depth of snow on ground Sunday
morning, there was plenty of snow from Reno, NV to Flagstaff, AZ to
Dodge City, KS, to Cincinnati, Ohio and on to the Great Smoky Mountains,
up to Washington DC and on to New England. In fact, it looked like about
half the lower 48 states are still covered with snow. The Mid-Atlantic
snow pack is retreating now after their huge storms, but many areas
still have a good foot or more of water-soaked snow left on the ground
(and thanks so much to everyone that takes that measurement). Much of
Iowa has been dealing with deep snow since the beginning of December.
Even places like Cincinnati have been pushing deep snow around for over
two weeks. As the snow persists, fewer of us are keeping up with the
measurements. Is it possible that people are “sick of winter” :-) ?

By the way, check out the maps in the Reno, NV yesterday and today. They
got pounded by a surprise local storm. Everyone seems to be taking a
turn at measuring snow this year.


Hang in there – the SWE will eventually be gone

Measuring deep, old, icy snow is neither easy nor necessarily enjoyable,
but we appreciate all of you who have tried your best to measure the new
snow, the water content, the total depth of snow and the snow water
equivalent (SWE) of the total snow depth on the ground. Since we started
doing “Monday SWE” a few weeks ago, over 500 of us have taken Monday
morning core samples from the snow left on the ground to determine the
“snow water equivalent”. The folks at the National Operational
Hydrologic Remote Sensing Center and many of our River Forecast Centers
across the country greatly appreciate these measurements. They help
forecasters anticipate how much water is available in the snow to
contribute to soil moisture, runoff, and river flow in the weeks ahead.
Keep those measurements coming until your snow is completely gone.


Many questions arose from the ”SWE Monday” campaign. Here are a few
quick answers to common questions

?? “Where do I enter this information?” Answer: It’s our regular daily
“Precipitation Report Form” under “Total Snow and Ice on Ground at
Observation Time”

?? “I can’t get a good measure of the water content. Is it OK if I just
report the total snow depth and skip the SWE?” Answer: Yes, that helps a
lot too. Do what you can.

?? “I’m not as agile as I used to be. Can I opt out of this report?”
Answer: Yes, measuring snow depth and SWE are important, but optional.
Please don’t risk hurting yourself on ice and snow for CoCoRaHS.

?? “What if we think the snow is going to melt during the week, before
we can measure the next Monday?” The “SWE Monday” campaign is primarily
for areas with deep and persistent snow cover where it is not practical
to measure every day. For most areas of the country, snow may only stay
on the ground a few days. In those areas, it’s best to measure each and
every day while you have the chance. If the SWE changes a lot from day
to day due to new precipitation or melting, it’s also a good idea to
send in more than just one report per week.

?? “If I report SWE on Monday, does that mean you don’t want my daily
precipitation reports the other days of the week?” Answer: Continue to
do your regular daily precipitation report each day, including new snow
and total snow depth.

?? “I live in New York and I was told specifically to report SWE on
Wednesdays. Now I’m confused.” Answer: We learned that in some parts of
the country, the local practice was to measure the SWE on Wednesday or
Fridays, and not Monday’s. Sorry for the confusion. If you have received
specific instructions from your CoCoRaHS coordinator to measure and
report SWE on a different day, stick with your local instructions. Or if
you can do both, that’s good too.

Storm Warning!

It may still seem like winter, but the severe thunderstorm season can
start any day now across the southern states and quickly move up into
the Midwest and the Ohio Valley. My home county in central Illinois,
Champaign County, took several direct hits from tornadoes in March when
I was growing up there. It is something we must take seriously.

Please be ready for the 2010 severe weather season. If you are concerned
about tornadoes, I strongly encourage you to check your local National
Weather Service website and find out about severe weather spotter
training sessions for your area. http://www.weather.gov

Be prepared to measure and report hail. We’ve had over 70 reports of
hail already this year, but there will be many more storms in the months
ahead. If you plan to use hail pads to measure and report hail (and we
recommend it), this is a good time to make sure you have a couple of
fresh, new hail pads ready to install. There are instructions on the
website on how to make your own. Don’t wait until the last minute, or
the storm will hit and you’ll still have the pad indoors.

Remember, we have a special report form on the CoCoRaHS website
specifically for reporting hail. Get familiar with it. You don’t need to
have a hail pad in order to report hail.

March Madness, CoCoRaHS style.

A traditional part of spring is our annual “March Madness” friendly
competition to see what states can sign up the most new CoCoRaHS
volunteers. This will be the first year where all 50 states are in the
competition. Take advantage of this opportunity to help recruit more
participants for CoCoRaHS. If you know of anyone who might be
interested, point them to http://www.cocorahs.org
<http://www.cocorahs.org/> and click “Join CoCoRaHS”. We’ll post the
scores each week in our “Message of the Day” so we can all track the
results.

By the way, we’ve been holding steady at between 6800 and 8000 CoCoRaHS
reports per day most of the winter, but as the weather warms up we hope
to shoot for 10,000 reports per day by May.


Zero is better than nothing

We appreciate knowing both when it does rain and snow, and when it
doesn’t. It only takes about 5 seconds to send in your daily report when
there was no precipitation, and it really helps. Thanks.


A fresh new face in CoCoRaHS

I just wanted to let you know that there is a new baby in the CoCoRaHS
family. Julian Turner, our web developer who maintains the website and
all the millions of CoCoRaHS data records, and his wife are the proud
parents of their second child -- a baby girl born over the weekend.
Little “Alden Grace Turner” is very small – less than 4 pounds – and
will be in neonatal intensive care for awhile. But Julian reports that
she is feisty and ready for action. We wish them the best.

Drought Impacts

In the last two weeks we added a new feature to the CoCoRaHS website –
the ability to report drought impacts that you are observing or have
observed in your area. We chose a convenient time to launch, because
hardly any of the country is facing drought right now. But it is almost
a sure bet that in the weeks ahead, some parts of the country will be on
the short end of the stick when it comes to spring and summer rainfall.


http://www.cocorahs.org/Content.aspx?page=droughtimpactreports


When you have a minute, take a look at the drought impact information.
Then, when you find your community experiencing the impacts of drought,
please use the CoCoRaHS “Drought Impacts” entry form to let us know.
Information provided will be shared with the National Drought Mitigation
Center at the University of Nebraska in Lincoln. By the way, you can
always go back and enter a description of impacts you have observed in
the past.


One less shirt, one less shoe, but many more eggs

Lily, our young Australian shepherd, is not on my good side right now.
We had a few sunny days just over a week ago, and my wife hung some
clothes out on the line. We weren’t around to see it, but Lily managed
to pull down my best dress shirt and chewed off the collar and a sleeve.
There were several shirts on the line that I wouldn’t have minded
sacrificing, but she chose the best. Then on Saturday, while it was
snowing hard, I left my shoes outside the door briefly so as to not
track snow into the house, I was only inside for about 10 minutes, but
when I came back, part of my new shoe that my daughter gave me for
Christmas was chewed up. Bummer, I know it was my fault, but still -- --
-- -- I thought she was past that. On the brighter side, our chickens
are laying eggs very well again, and the eggs are delicious.


In conclusion

Thanks again for being a part of CoCoRaHS. If you are new to this
project and haven’t gotten started yet, this would be a great day to begin.

Best wishes,

Nolan Doesken
Colorado State University

We have established Skywarn Weather Spotter Training at our NOAA Sand Point
facility on the evening of Apr 22nd.

I have attached the training announcement.  It will also be posted on our web
site at weather.gov/seattle shortly.  You are welcome to help circulate the
weather spotter training opportunity.

The training event will be held in our auditorium, so there is plenty of room. 
Yet, the class limit is 70 since any more will exceed a quality training
environment.  RSVPs are required and being taken now!

If you have any additional questions, please feel free to let me know.
Thanks!!

Ted

CoCoRaHS OBSERVER
TRAINING ANNOUNCEMENT


Date: Wednesday, January 27th, 2010
Time: 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.
Location: Snohomish County Department of Emergency Management

CoCoRaHS of Snohomish County in cooperation with
Snohomish County Office of Emergency Management,

Will be providing comprehensive CoCoRaHS Observer training to new and veteran
Observers, including citizens, and those affiliated with emergency management.
Observers are needed throughout all of Snohomish County.
If you are interested in attending this training please contact Sean Kiaer at
snocounty.cocorahs@... to reserve your spot

PLEASE DO NOT CONTACT THE SNOHOMISH COUNTY OFFICE OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
REGARDING THIS TRAINING SESSION. ALL INQUIREIES ARE TO BE DIRECTED TO SNOHOMISH
COUNTY COCORAHS

DOOR PRIZE to be given away

A NOAA Weather Radio (Midland WR-100 with SAME Technology) will be given away as
a Door Prize (Donated by Everett Mall Best Buy)

The National Weather Service has opened up a TOLL FREE Hotline for reporting
Severe Weather. This Hotline is for the Public as well as Trained SKYWARN
Spotters.

YOU MUST READ THE ENTIRE POST PRIOR TO REPORTING.
The number is posted at the bottom of this notice.

The National Weather Service encourages everyone to report severe weather.

HOW TO REPORT SEVERE WEATHER USING THIS SYSTEM

in order to use this system you must know your,

1: Latitude Longitude by Degrees and Minutes

2: Or Zip Code

If either of these two items are not available then you must leave a very
detailed voice message at the end as to your location

What State are you in,
What County are you in,
What City are you in or closest to,
What is the nearest cross street, highway or interstate,
What mile post,
What is a well known Landmark,
What direction is the storm or event from your location
Is it still occurring,
what direction is it moving I.E. North, South, East, or West.

Be as detailed, in your report and location as possible IDENTIFY YOUR SELF WITH
YOUR NAME PHONE NUMBER, ADDRESS AND CoCoRaHS Station Number
When Prompted to leave a Voice Message.

When Prompted to leave a Voice Message, Remain Calm. Make sure you are in a safe
location. The NWS would much rather not
receive a report if it puts your safety in jeopardy.
YOUR SAFETY COMES FIRST!!!

Be as descriptive as possible, include thickness of tree limbs, rainfall
amounts and any damage or weather occurrence you feel is important to report.

SEVERE WEATHER REPORTING GUIDE LINES FOR WASHINGTON STATE

WESTERN WASHINGTON REGION

1: TORNADO: A violently rotating column of air IN CONTACT with the ground and
extending from the base of a thunderstorm.
Visual Key: is there dust & debris being picked up below the funnel

2: FUNNEL CLOUD: Violently rotating column of air that is not in contact with
the ground.
Visual Key: Look below the Funnel for Dust and debris being picked up if there
is then it is a Tornado

TORNADO, WATERSPOUT, FUNNEL CLOUD, WALL CLOUD -

Location, time, and direction of movement. Is it still visible? Watch for
rotation in the cloud(s). Any damage?

HAIL - Pea-sized or larger. Any damage?

LIGHTNING - Frequent (4 or more per minute) cloud-to-ground lightning inforested
areas.

DAMAGING WINDS - Trees/power lines knocked down, damage to homes, etc. If you
have an anemometer, report any sustained winds over 35 MPH or gusts over 50 mph.
You Can also use the Beaufort Scale for an estimate. Note: sustained winds are a
one
minute average.

HEAVY RAIN - One-half (0.50) inch in one hour. Two inches or more in 24 hours or
less. Has it ended?

FLOODING - OF ANY KIND! Are waters rising or falling? Any damage, mud or rock
slides, and/or roads blocked?

SNOW - One inch accumulation or more in three hours. 4 inches in 12 hours or
less.

FREEZING PRECIPITATION - Any accumulation of sleet or freezing rain / drizzle.

POOR VISIBILITY - Reduced visibility adversely impacting transportation. Less
than one-half miles for DENSE FOG and BLOWING SNOW.
BLOWING DUST and VOLCANIC ASH. Less than 300 feet

SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON REGION

1: TORNADO: A violently rotating column of air IN CONTACT with the ground and
extending from the base of a thunderstorm.
Visual Key: is there dust & debries being picked up below the funnel

2: FUNNEL CLOUD: Violently rotating column of air that is not in contact with
the ground.
Visual Key: Look below the Funnel for Dust and debris being picked up if there
is then it is a Tornado

Wind: 50 mph or stronger
Hail: 3/4 inch (penny or dime size) or larger in diameter
Flooding: Any significant amount of water in normally dry areas
River Flooding: Any river rising above their normal bank level
Heavy Rain: Rain rates of 1 inch per hour or greater
And - Rain greater than 1 inch in 24 hours
Heavy Snow: Call while snowing at a rate of 1 inch per hour or greater
And - Call with total snow fall if >= 1 inch when the snow ends
Low Visibilities: Visibility less than 1/2 mile due to fog, dust, rain, or snow
Freezing Rain: Any freezing rain

EASTERN WASHINGTON REGION

FUNNEL CLOUD OR TORNADO
1: TORNADO: A violently rotating column of air IN CONTACT with the ground and
extending from the base of a thunderstorm.
Visual Key: is there dust & debries being picked up below the funnel

2: FUNNEL CLOUD: Violently rotating column of air that is not in contact with
the ground.
Visual Key: Look below the Funnel for Dust and debris being picked up if there
is then it is a Tornado

HAIL
Pea-sized or larger

STRONG WINDS
30 mph+ or winds that produce any damage. Estimate using Beaufort chart.

HEAVY RAINFALL
0.50 inch in one hour - showery
1 inch in 12 hrs or 1.5 inches in 24 hrs – steady rain

FLOODING
Of any kind...including possible dam or levee failure. Watch for changing water
levels.

SNOW
2 inches or more – valleys
6 inches or more - mountains

MIXED PRECIPITATION
Any freezing rain or sleet

POOR VISIBILITY
One half mile or less in blowing dust or snow etc.

TRAVEL PROBLEMS DUE TO WEATHER
Conditions where poor or hazardous travel conditions observed or reported

ANY DAMAGE, INJURY OR LOSS OF LIFE DUE TO WEATHER
Be sure to include location, time and specific cause

SOUTH CENTRAL WASHINGTON REGION

1: TORNADO: A violently rotating column of air IN CONTACT with the ground and
extending from the base of a thunderstorm.
Visual Key: is there dust & debries being picked up below the funnel

2: FUNNEL CLOUD: Violently rotating column of air that is not in contact with
the ground.
Visual Key: Look below the Funnel for Dust and debris being picked up if there
is then it is a Tornado
Location, time and direction of movement.

Hail: Pea size or larger.

Lightning: Continuous lightning (more than 6 flashes per minute).

Heavy Rain: Half an inch or more per hour. Report heavy rain even if you are
outside a flood prone area.

Heavy Snow: Accumulations of four inches in 12 hours or one inch per hour.

Flooding: Of ANY kind, including dam or levee failure. Are waters rising or
falling?

Damaging Wind: Trees or power lines knocked down, damage to buildings, etc.
Report any wind of at least 40 mph using the Beaufort Scale.

Fog, Blowing Dust, Blowing Snow: Report initial onslaught of event when poor
visibility impacts travel.

Freezing Rain: Report initial onslaught of event when it impacts travel.
Mudslides: Any event causing damage or road closure.

NATIONAL SEVERE WEATHER REPORTING HOT LINE 877-633-6772

Greetings, and a special welcome to all the new CoCoRaHS volunteers who
have signed up in recent weeks.  Welcome aboard!

Changes are happening fast now.  Here at home, I'm happy to report that
our horse corrals have started to dry out and only two large snow drifts
remain -- now less than a foot deep. Today was the first day since back
in mid October when I didn't need snow boots or mud boots to do the
chores.  Also we got out in the garden for the first time this year and
began some early soil preparations in hopes of planting some seeds in a
few weeks.  The temperature reached the mid 50s on Saturday and bees
were out of the hive for the first time buzzing wildly in hopes of early
blossoms but settling for some ground yellow corn in the chicken yard.

This coming Sunday we "Spring Forward" to Daylight Savings Time.for most
(not all) of the country.  Don't forget to change your clocks.  While
there was still freezing temperatures in Florida this past weekend, for
most of the country the temperatures are climbing now, snow is
retreating and the word "Thunderstorms" is starting to appear on some
weather forecasts for the upcoming week. There still haven't been many
"Severe Thunderstorm or Tornado Watches and Warnings" but that could be
coming soon enough.  Across much of the country, National Weather
Service meteorologists are busily organizing severe weather spotter and
Skywarn training sessions to get us all prepared.  Check the local NWS
webpage for training sessions near you.


Arizona wins

This won't happen very often so enjoy it when you have the chance.
Today (March 8th) 46 out of the 52 largest precipitation totals in the
country were observed in the state of Arizona including 40 reports of
1.00" or greater.  For Arizona, this was a very wet day.  In fact, since
January 1 the CoCoRaHS precipitation observations show a statewide
average of over 6" of precipitation so far this year.  While that's not
much for some parts of the country, for AZ this is great and a big
change from last year.


Crazy New England storm

I didn't have a chance to mention it, but a big "Thanks" to all of you
in New England that managed to help measure and report the monstrous
storm of Feb 23-27th.  That was wild.  Winds were extreme and there were
dozens of Maine rainfall totals exceeding 6" for the storm.  Farther
west in New Hampshire and parts of New York state, the snow piled up 3,
4 and even 5 feet deep on the level.  And it wasn't fluff snow, either.
   There are probably some areas just now finally getting their
electricity restored.  Again, thanks for braving the storm to collect
good data.  Almost every week, some part of the country gets blasted.
Will it be your turn next?


Don't forget Alaska and Hawaii

I have not given nearly enough credit to our small but committed team of
CoCoRaHS volunteers in Alaska and Hawaii..  Keep an eye on HI-HI-2 and
HI-HI-4. These two stations are on the wet side of the Big Island of
Hawaii and pretty much anything can happen when it comes to rain.
They've experienced "Drought" this winter and yet the Pepeekeo CoCoRaHS
station is up to 73" of rainfall since October 1.  They may need a
bigger gauge.  Meanwhile, Alaska has enjoyed a relatively mild later
half of winter and are now enjoying the rapid increase in daylength.


March Madness, CoCoRaHS style

The 2010 CoCoRaHS "March Madness" is under way.  That's our friendly
competition to see which state can recruit the most new volunteers in
one month.  Winners from previous years include Illinois (2006), Indiana
(2007), South Carolina(2008) and Texas (2009).   This year, we've made
things "interesting" by changing the scoring to account for variations
in population.  Points are based on the number of new recruits per
1,000,000 residents.  With this new scoring system, North Dakota and
Mississippi are in a close race, but Kansas (a perennial competitor) is
close behind.  Good luck to TX and CA. They will have to recruit a few
hundred new volunteers this month to have any chance.at all.


You can help

Yes, all of us can help our states compete for the new "CoCoRaHS Cup"
trophy.  Spread the word to friends, co workers and family members.  We
have a press release that you can take to your local newspaper to try to
drum up additional interest.  Let me know if you would like a copy of
the press release and we'll send it your way.

Of course this isn't all just fun and games.  Drought, heavy rains,
possible flooding, and hail may be just around the corner and we really
want to make a difference this year by accurately tracking, mapping and
early reporting every storm.  The more volunteers we have to help, the
more accurate we will be.  I hope we can reach the 10,000 report
milestone -- maybe in May or June.  But what's to say we can't find a
few thousand more weather enthusiasts to help out.


But does anyone care?

Almost every week I get e-mail from current or potential volunteers
asking "But is it worth my time?  Does anyone  actually look at our
data?"  The answer is a resounding "Yes!  I can't emphasize this
enough.  Our data get used!!  Everywhere in the country, CoCoRaHS data
are being looked at and used each and every day.  One of the users is
NOAA's Meteorological Assimilation Data Ingest System (/MADIS/)
<http://madis.noaa.gov/>  They pull data from our server each and every
hour every hour of the day and night to get all the latest reports.
Many of the National Weather Service River Forecast Centers are grabbing
our reports every morning to help update their projections of streamflow
and possible flooding.  The need for better hydroclimatic data is one of
the big reasons we've been promoting "SWE Mondays" to increase the
number of reports from CoCoRaHS of the total water content in the old
snow remaining on the ground.  It has paid off with over 500 reports
each Monday in late February.  Local National Weather Service Forecast
Offices are getting CoCoRaHS data and using them to help with forecasts,
local storm warnings, forecast verifications and local climatology.
Agribusinesses are examining CoCoRaHS data to improve their assessments
of potential crop predictions.

This is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to who is using your
data.  TV stations, newspapers, school teachers, water utilities -- the
list goes on.  I hope to begin work soon on an article for WeatherWise
Magazine to describe for the nation the amazing benefits realized from
volunteer weather reports both now and throughout U.S. history.


Spotting data that don't look right

As more and more organizations are tapping into CoCoRaHS, the occasional
errors in daily reports are getting more attention.  We have volunteer
coordinators all over the country checking over the reports each
morning.  You can help too.  If you notice a data entry from your area
that just doesn't look right, please contact Zach Schwalbe
<zach@...> or your state/regional volunteer coordinator.  We
try our best, but errors do slip through, so if you can help us spot
them, please let us know.


When can I start?

We are discovering that hundreds, perhaps thousands, of people who
signed up for CoCoRaHS have never started reporting.  If this happens to
be you, it's not too late.  If you need help just let us know.  We can
help you relocate your username and password, or you can find it
yourself.  Just go to http://www.cocorahs.org and click "Login" and then
click "Find my login"


Rain Gauge Calendar photos.

We can't guarantee if this will work out, but thinking ahead to our next
CoCoRaHS fund raiser, we're exploring doing a 2011 CoCoRaHS Rain Gauge
Calendar.  That's why we are posting on the "Message of the Day" the
opportunity to contribute your best photos of your rain gauge.  Each
season from now into the fall we'll collect seasonal shots and see if we
can come up with a really classy and unique calendar that won't be like
anything you've ever seen before.  So if you see something that catches
your attention -- from a great horned owl sitting on your gauge to
masterpieces of frost and snow, take some shots and send them in to
Henry Reges <hreges@...>


1435

That's how many "Significant Weather Reports" we've received since
January 1.  That's more than double what we had this time last year.
Keep up the good work!  Those reports are really helpful  Any time you
are experiencing heavy rain, heavy snow, or other stormy weather that
you think we and the National Weather Service should know about, right
away, just go to CoCoRaHS data entry and fill out a report..  Your
report will go nearly immediately to your National Weather Service Office.

All of us can scan the "Significant Weather reports" anytime by going to:

  http://www.cocorahs.org/ViewData/ListIntensePrecipReports.aspx

If you go to the state drop down menu and click "Select State" at the
top of the menu it will display the reports for the whole country.

Reminder:  If you send in a significant weather report you still need to
send in your regular daily precipitation report..


Keep on

I know the business of daily weather reporting can lose it's luster,
especially when not much is happening.  But your reports, even those of
Zero precipitation, are still really available.  For some of us  it's
fun, for some it's a habit, but for some it feels like an annoying
chore.  Keep on reporting if you can.  The time may come when you no
longer feel like it or no longer are physically able.  That's OK.  We
understand.  Just let us know and then try to find a nearby friend or
neighbor so you can still see how much moisture fell nearby.


Server failure

You may have noticed that we had our longest "CoCoRaHS system failure"
today in the history of the project -- about 3.5 hours.  Fortunately,
the server and database were restored and we don't think we lost any data.


The horses

In closing, our horses are fine.  Many of you who know the sensitive
nature of equine digestive systems wrote after our horses raided our
tack room and "horsed down" a sack of grain.  Fortunately, they had no
ill effects from their bad behavior  -- but they check the latch every
single day just in case I forget to close it.

I'll be back in touch in a few weeks.

Sincerely,

Nolan Doesken
Colorado State University

Sent at: 2:35p PST

CoCoRaHS OBSERVER
TRAINING ANNOUNCEMENT


Date: Wednesday, January 27th, 2010
Time: 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.
Location: Snohomish County Department of Emergency Management

CoCoRaHS of Snohomish County in cooperation with
Snohomish County Office of Emergency Management,

Will be providing comprehensive CoCoRaHS Observer training to new and veteran
Observers, including citizens, and those affiliated with emergency management.
Observers are needed throughout all of Snohomish County.
If you are interested in attending this training please contact Sean Kiaer at
snocounty.cocorahs@... to reserve your spot

PLEASE DO NOT CONTACT THE SNOHOMISH COUNTY OFFICE OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
REGARDING THIS TRAINING SESSION. ALL INQUIREIES ARE TO BE DIRECTED TO SNOHOMISH
COUNTY COCORAHS

DOOR PRIZE to be given away

A NOAA Weather Radio (Midland WR-100 with SAME Technology) will be given away as
a Door Prize (Donated by Everett Mall Best Buy)

The National Weather Service has opened up a TOLL FREE Hotline for reporting
Severe Weather. This Hotline is for the Public as well as Trained SKYWARN
Spotters.

YOU MUST READ THE ENTIRE POST PRIOR TO REPORTING.
The number is posted at the bottom of this notice.

The National Weather Service encourages everyone to report severe weather.

HOW TO REPORT SEVERE WEATHER USING THIS SYSTEM

in order to use this system you must know your,

1: Latitude Longitude by Degrees and Minutes

2: Or Zip Code

If either of these two items are not available then you must leave a very
detailed voice message at the end as to your location

What State are you in,
What County are you in,
What City are you in or closest to,
What is the nearest cross street, highway or interstate,
What mile post,
What is a well known Landmark,
What direction is the storm or event from your location
Is it still occurring,
what direction is it moving I.E. North, South, East, or West.

Be as detailed, in your report and location as possible IDENTIFY YOUR SELF WITH
YOUR NAME PHONE NUMBER, ADDRESS AND CoCoRaHS Station Number
When Prompted to leave a Voice Message.

When Prompted to leave a Voice Message, Remain Calm. Make sure you are in a safe
location. The NWS would much rather not
receive a report if it puts your safety in jeopardy.
YOUR SAFETY COMES FIRST!!!

Be as descriptive as possible, include thickness of tree limbs, rainfall
amounts and any damage or weather occurrence you feel is important to report.

SEVERE WEATHER REPORTING GUIDE LINES FOR WASHINGTON STATE

WESTERN WASHINGTON REGION

1: TORNADO: A violently rotating column of air IN CONTACT with the ground and
extending from the base of a thunderstorm.
Visual Key: is there dust & debris being picked up below the funnel

2: FUNNEL CLOUD: Violently rotating column of air that is not in contact with
the ground.
Visual Key: Look below the Funnel for Dust and debris being picked up if there
is then it is a Tornado

TORNADO, WATERSPOUT, FUNNEL CLOUD, WALL CLOUD -

Location, time, and direction of movement. Is it still visible? Watch for
rotation in the cloud(s). Any damage?

HAIL - Pea-sized or larger. Any damage?

LIGHTNING - Frequent (4 or more per minute) cloud-to-ground lightning inforested
areas.

DAMAGING WINDS - Trees/power lines knocked down, damage to homes, etc. If you
have an anemometer, report any sustained winds over 35 MPH or gusts over 50 mph.
You Can also use the Beaufort Scale for an estimate. Note: sustained winds are a
one
minute average.

HEAVY RAIN - One-half (0.50) inch in one hour. Two inches or more in 24 hours or
less. Has it ended?

FLOODING - OF ANY KIND! Are waters rising or falling? Any damage, mud or rock
slides, and/or roads blocked?

SNOW - One inch accumulation or more in three hours. 4 inches in 12 hours or
less.

FREEZING PRECIPITATION - Any accumulation of sleet or freezing rain / drizzle.

POOR VISIBILITY - Reduced visibility adversely impacting transportation. Less
than one-half miles for DENSE FOG and BLOWING SNOW.
BLOWING DUST and VOLCANIC ASH. Less than 300 feet

SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON REGION

1: TORNADO: A violently rotating column of air IN CONTACT with the ground and
extending from the base of a thunderstorm.
Visual Key: is there dust & debries being picked up below the funnel

2: FUNNEL CLOUD: Violently rotating column of air that is not in contact with
the ground.
Visual Key: Look below the Funnel for Dust and debris being picked up if there
is then it is a Tornado

Wind: 50 mph or stronger
Hail: 3/4 inch (penny or dime size) or larger in diameter
Flooding: Any significant amount of water in normally dry areas
River Flooding: Any river rising above their normal bank level
Heavy Rain: Rain rates of 1 inch per hour or greater
And - Rain greater than 1 inch in 24 hours
Heavy Snow: Call while snowing at a rate of 1 inch per hour or greater
And - Call with total snow fall if >= 1 inch when the snow ends
Low Visibilities: Visibility less than 1/2 mile due to fog, dust, rain, or snow
Freezing Rain: Any freezing rain

EASTERN WASHINGTON REGION

FUNNEL CLOUD OR TORNADO
1: TORNADO: A violently rotating column of air IN CONTACT with the ground and
extending from the base of a thunderstorm.
Visual Key: is there dust & debries being picked up below the funnel

2: FUNNEL CLOUD: Violently rotating column of air that is not in contact with
the ground.
Visual Key: Look below the Funnel for Dust and debris being picked up if there
is then it is a Tornado

HAIL
Pea-sized or larger

STRONG WINDS
30 mph+ or winds that produce any damage. Estimate using Beaufort chart.

HEAVY RAINFALL
0.50 inch in one hour - showery
1 inch in 12 hrs or 1.5 inches in 24 hrs – steady rain

FLOODING
Of any kind...including possible dam or levee failure. Watch for changing water
levels.

SNOW
2 inches or more – valleys
6 inches or more - mountains

MIXED PRECIPITATION
Any freezing rain or sleet

POOR VISIBILITY
One half mile or less in blowing dust or snow etc.

TRAVEL PROBLEMS DUE TO WEATHER
Conditions where poor or hazardous travel conditions observed or reported

ANY DAMAGE, INJURY OR LOSS OF LIFE DUE TO WEATHER
Be sure to include location, time and specific cause

SOUTH CENTRAL WASHINGTON REGION

1: TORNADO: A violently rotating column of air IN CONTACT with the ground and
extending from the base of a thunderstorm.
Visual Key: is there dust & debries being picked up below the funnel

2: FUNNEL CLOUD: Violently rotating column of air that is not in contact with
the ground.
Visual Key: Look below the Funnel for Dust and debris being picked up if there
is then it is a Tornado
Location, time and direction of movement.

Hail: Pea size or larger.

Lightning: Continuous lightning (more than 6 flashes per minute).

Heavy Rain: Half an inch or more per hour. Report heavy rain even if you are
outside a flood prone area.

Heavy Snow: Accumulations of four inches in 12 hours or one inch per hour.

Flooding: Of ANY kind, including dam or levee failure. Are waters rising or
falling?

Damaging Wind: Trees or power lines knocked down, damage to buildings, etc.
Report any wind of at least 40 mph using the Beaufort Scale.

Fog, Blowing Dust, Blowing Snow: Report initial onslaught of event when poor
visibility impacts travel.

Freezing Rain: Report initial onslaught of event when it impacts travel.
Mudslides: Any event causing damage or road closure.

NATIONAL SEVERE WEATHER REPORTING HOT LINE 877-633-6772

The National Weather Service has opened up a TOLL FREE Hotline for reporting
Severe Weather. This Hotline is for the Public as well as Trained SKYWARN
Spotters.

YOU MUST READ THE ENTIRE POST PRIOR TO REPORTING.
The number is posted at the bottom of this notice.

The National Weather Service encourages everyone to report severe weather.

HOW TO REPORT SEVERE WEATHER USING THIS SYSTEM

in order to use this system you must know your,

1: Latitude Longitude by Degrees and Minutes

2: Or Zip Code

If either of these two items are not available then you must leave a very
detailed voice message at the end as to your location

What State are you in,
What County are you in,
What City are you in or closest to,
What is the nearest cross street, highway or interstate,
What mile post,
What is a well known Landmark,
What direction is the storm or event from your location
Is it still occurring,
what direction is it moving I.E. North, South, East, or West.

Be as detailed, in your report and location as possible IDENTIFY YOUR SELF WITH
YOUR NAME PHONE NUMBER, ADDRESS AND CoCoRaHS Station Number
When Prompted to leave a Voice Message.

When Prompted to leave a Voice Message, Remain Calm. Make sure you are in a safe
location. The NWS would much rather not
receive a report if it puts your safety in jeopardy.
YOUR SAFETY COMES FIRST!!!

Be as descriptive as possible, include thickness of tree limbs, rainfall
amounts and any damage or weather occurrence you feel is important to report.

SEVERE WEATHER REPORTING GUIDE LINES FOR WASHINGTON STATE

WESTERN WASHINGTON REGION

1: TORNADO: A violently rotating column of air IN CONTACT with the ground and
extending from the base of a thunderstorm.
Visual Key: is there dust & debris being picked up below the funnel

2: FUNNEL CLOUD: Violently rotating column of air that is not in contact with
the ground.
Visual Key: Look below the Funnel for Dust and debris being picked up if there
is then it is a Tornado

TORNADO, WATERSPOUT, FUNNEL CLOUD, WALL CLOUD -

Location, time, and direction of movement. Is it still visible? Watch for
rotation in the cloud(s). Any damage?

HAIL - Pea-sized or larger. Any damage?

LIGHTNING - Frequent (4 or more per minute) cloud-to-ground lightning inforested
areas.

DAMAGING WINDS - Trees/power lines knocked down, damage to homes, etc. If you
have an anemometer, report any sustained winds over 35 MPH or gusts over 50 mph.
You Can also use the Beaufort Scale for an estimate. Note: sustained winds are a
one
minute average.

HEAVY RAIN - One-half (0.50) inch in one hour. Two inches or more in 24 hours or
less. Has it ended?

FLOODING - OF ANY KIND! Are waters rising or falling? Any damage, mud or rock
slides, and/or roads blocked?

SNOW - One inch accumulation or more in three hours. 4 inches in 12 hours or
less.

FREEZING PRECIPITATION - Any accumulation of sleet or freezing rain / drizzle.

POOR VISIBILITY - Reduced visibility adversely impacting transportation. Less
than one-half miles for DENSE FOG and BLOWING SNOW.
BLOWING DUST and VOLCANIC ASH. Less than 300 feet

SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON REGION

1: TORNADO: A violently rotating column of air IN CONTACT with the ground and
extending from the base of a thunderstorm.
Visual Key: is there dust & debries being picked up below the funnel

2: FUNNEL CLOUD: Violently rotating column of air that is not in contact with
the ground.
Visual Key: Look below the Funnel for Dust and debris being picked up if there
is then it is a Tornado

Wind: 50 mph or stronger
Hail: 3/4 inch (penny or dime size) or larger in diameter
Flooding: Any significant amount of water in normally dry areas
River Flooding: Any river rising above their normal bank level
Heavy Rain: Rain rates of 1 inch per hour or greater
And - Rain greater than 1 inch in 24 hours
Heavy Snow: Call while snowing at a rate of 1 inch per hour or greater
And - Call with total snow fall if >= 1 inch when the snow ends
Low Visibilities: Visibility less than 1/2 mile due to fog, dust, rain, or snow
Freezing Rain: Any freezing rain

EASTERN WASHINGTON REGION

FUNNEL CLOUD OR TORNADO
1: TORNADO: A violently rotating column of air IN CONTACT with the ground and
extending from the base of a thunderstorm.
Visual Key: is there dust & debries being picked up below the funnel

2: FUNNEL CLOUD: Violently rotating column of air that is not in contact with
the ground.
Visual Key: Look below the Funnel for Dust and debris being picked up if there
is then it is a Tornado

HAIL
Pea-sized or larger

STRONG WINDS
30 mph+ or winds that produce any damage. Estimate using Beaufort chart.

HEAVY RAINFALL
0.50 inch in one hour - showery
1 inch in 12 hrs or 1.5 inches in 24 hrs – steady rain

FLOODING
Of any kind...including possible dam or levee failure. Watch for changing water
levels.

SNOW
2 inches or more – valleys
6 inches or more - mountains

MIXED PRECIPITATION
Any freezing rain or sleet

POOR VISIBILITY
One half mile or less in blowing dust or snow etc.

TRAVEL PROBLEMS DUE TO WEATHER
Conditions where poor or hazardous travel conditions observed or reported

ANY DAMAGE, INJURY OR LOSS OF LIFE DUE TO WEATHER
Be sure to include location, time and specific cause

SOUTH CENTRAL WASHINGTON REGION

1: TORNADO: A violently rotating column of air IN CONTACT with the ground and
extending from the base of a thunderstorm.
Visual Key: is there dust & debries being picked up below the funnel

2: FUNNEL CLOUD: Violently rotating column of air that is not in contact with
the ground.
Visual Key: Look below the Funnel for Dust and debris being picked up if there
is then it is a Tornado
Location, time and direction of movement.

Hail: Pea size or larger.

Lightning: Continuous lightning (more than 6 flashes per minute).

Heavy Rain: Half an inch or more per hour. Report heavy rain even if you are
outside a flood prone area.

Heavy Snow: Accumulations of four inches in 12 hours or one inch per hour.

Flooding: Of ANY kind, including dam or levee failure. Are waters rising or
falling?

Damaging Wind: Trees or power lines knocked down, damage to buildings, etc.
Report any wind of at least 40 mph using the Beaufort Scale.

Fog, Blowing Dust, Blowing Snow: Report initial onslaught of event when poor
visibility impacts travel.

Freezing Rain: Report initial onslaught of event when it impacts travel.
Mudslides: Any event causing damage or road closure.

NATIONAL SEVERE WEATHER REPORTING HOT LINE 877-633-6772

CoCoRaHS OBSERVER
TRAINING ANNOUNCEMENT


Date: Wednesday, January 27th, 2010
Time: 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.
Location: Snohomish County Department of Emergency Management

CoCoRaHS of Snohomish County in cooperation with
Snohomish County Office of Emergency Management,

Will be providing comprehensive CoCoRaHS Observer training to new and veteran
Observers, including citizens, and those affiliated with emergency management.
Observers are needed throughout all of Snohomish County.
If you are interested in attending this training please contact Sean Kiaer at
snocounty.cocorahs@... to reserve your spot

PLEASE DO NOT CONTACT THE SNOHOMISH COUNTY OFFICE OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
REGARDING THIS TRAINING SESSION. ALL INQUIREIES ARE TO BE DIRECTED TO SNOHOMISH
COUNTY COCORAHS

DOOR PRIZE to be given away

A NOAA Weather Radio (Midland WR-100 with SAME Technology) will be given away as
a Door Prize (Donated by Everett Mall Best Buy)