Warmer temperatures on the horizon mean the increased chance of severe weather, meaning that the National Weather Service and area emergency management offices are encouraging the public to take part in upcoming storm spotter training sessions.

The Cooper County Emergency Management Agency will host the National Weather Service’s SKYWARN weather spotter class Feb. 24 at 6 p.m., at the Cooper County Fire Protection District Station on Route 87 in Windsor Place, east of Boonville. Participants will learn the basics of thunderstorm development, storm structure, what features to look for, and where to find them. The two-hour session will also provide information on how to submit storm reports, along with basic severe weather safety. A similar class is scheduled for Feb. 27 at 7 p.m. at the Concordia Community Building.

No registration is necessary, but organizers stress that the class does not qualify people to become a storm chaser. Anyone seeking more information about the spotter training class can call the Cooper County Emergency Management Agency at 660-888-5737 or visit the National Weather Service’s website.