Storm Spotter

Brandon Trube has been serving as a vital storm spotter since 2004, working closely with the National Weather Service in Wichita, Kansas, as part of the SkyWarn team. His contributions serve as the "ground truth" for meteorological tools like radar and satellite, helping to fill in the gaps that technology alone can't cover.

In addition to his active role as a storm spotter, Brandon Trube has been committed to continuous learning and preparedness in the field of weather observation. Since 2004, he has participated in annual Weather Spotting and Storm Safety trainings. These yearly trainings equip him with the latest techniques and insights in weather spotting, ensuring he remains a valuable asset in the weather community. His dedication to ongoing education exemplifies his deep-rooted commitment to community safety and underscores the vital role he plays in storm spotting efforts.

Thunderstorms and severe weather events can be incredibly localized, sometimes affecting an area just one mile wide. Surface observations from storm spotters like Brandon are invaluable in such cases, offering real-time, localized information that radar and satellite might miss.

These observations are integral to the National Weather Service's forecasting capabilities. While advancements in meteorological technology have vastly improved the timeliness and accuracy of severe weather warnings, these warnings are only as useful as the actions they inspire. Brandon's role as a storm spotter not only aids in the issuance of effective warnings but also empowers communities to take the necessary safety precautions.

In partnership with Sedgwick County Emergency Management, Brandon also coordinates and engages in storm spotting activities for the county. This dual role strengthens the network of weather observation and ensures that communities are better prepared to face severe weather events.

Learn more about SkyWarn and the National Weather Service