eSpotter

eSpotter is an experimental project in the central region area to facilitate the submission of spotter reports online. The system is being developed to enhance and increase timely & accurate online spotter reporting and communications between spotters and their local weather forecast offices.

The use of the system is currently available for trained spotters and emergency managers.

NOTE

eSpotter is not intended to replace existing methods of data collection used by the local forecast offices. eSpotter is being viewed as a supplementary tool.

RULES REGARDING eSPOTTER IN THIS PROGRAM

1. If a report is submitted through the Sullivan Committee backbone, submission of the report SHOULD NOT be duplicated via eSpotter. If a report is sent via phone, it SHOULD be duplicated via eSpotter with a note stating that it was sent via telephone.

2. Severe reports (Items 1 though 7 on the Committee’s criteria sheet) should be sent via the Sullivan Committee backbone if the WFO MKX is staffed to do so.

3. Non severe reports (items 8 through 13) should be sent via eSpotter or through the digital modes unless otherwise specified. Information is easier to manipulate in this manner.

4. Sullivan Committee team members can promote program and encourage registration among their organizations. Proper function of program needs to be emphasized.

5. Location of the spotter needs to be in the same county as the reference used.

6. Airport locations are not compatible with eSpotter. As a result, they have been removed from the reference cities document.