Storm spotting equips trained volunteers to observe and report severe weather—tornadoes, hail, straight-line winds, and dangerous lightning—in real time. Spotters provide ground truth that complements radar and satellite data, improving warning accuracy and lead time for emergency managers and the public. Effective spotters know storm structure and behavior, use reliable communication protocols, prioritize safety, and relay concise, location-specific reports (type, size, time, and motion). Agencies and local SKYWARN programs offer training on identification, safety practices, and reporting procedures. When properly trained and deployed, storm spotters save lives by turning observations into actionable warnings.