Summertime Activations (i.e. Thunderstorms)
Level III
While severe weather is not expected at a widespread level, some scattered thunderstorms may approach and reach severe levels in a given time period. SKYWARN activation in various local areas may be necessary in case a Severe Thunderstorm or Special Marine Warning is issued for a localized area (one or two counties.). Net control operators will initiate a stand-by net and escalate the status of the SKYWARN net as the situation dictates. This is the lowest level of activation.
Level II
The potential exists for severe weather over a widespread area. A Weather Watch Issuance (Severe Thunderstorm, Tornado, Flood, Hurricane Watch) requires Stand-By Activation of SKYWARN. This means that NCS's and contact people should be near a amateur radio and monitor the situation as it develops. Particularly with Severe Thunderstorm, Tornado and Flood Watches, amateur operators should prepare for possible severe weather within a few hours of the Watch issuance and have a SKYWARN net standing by on frequency in case severe weather warrants a directed net later.
Level I
When Severe Thunderstorm, Special Marine, Tornado, Flood or Hurricane Warnings have been issued for the specified area, a directed net should be instituted. Particularly in Severe Thunderstorm, Tornado, and Flood Warnings, a directed net should be instituted immediately after the warning is issued. In a hurricane warning, the net can remain in stand-by mode until the first feeder bands of the hurricane reach the coast, then the status of the net can be escalated to a directed net. This is the highest level of activation.