In addition, topics covered during Skywarn training are:

The role of the spotter, the NWS and emergency services;
A recap of significant weather events during the prior year;
The necessary atmospheric conditions for thunderstorm development;
Tornadoes;
Severe weather safety tips;
Severe weather terms used in National Weather Service products;
What to report to the National Weather Service; and,
How to report information to the National Weather Service.

Skywarn training presentations usually last around two hours, with a scheduled break included.

At a minimum, it is asked that Skywarn volunteers review procedures by attending a Skywarn spotter training session every two years.