The Nevada State Climate Office and the National Weather Service (NWS) are recruiting volunteers to make precipitation observations which will help fill critical gaps across the state as part of the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail, and Snow (CoCoRaHS) Network.
CoCoRaHS (pronounced co-co-raws) is a grassroots volunteer network of backyard weather observers working together to measure precipitation (rain, hail and snow) in their local communities. By using low-cost measurement tools, providing training and education, and utilizing an interactive website, the program aims to provide the highest quality data for natural resource, educational, and research applications.
“The only requirements to join are an enthusiasm for watching and reporting weather conditions and a desire to learn more about how weather can affect and impact our lives,” Nevada State Climatologist and Professor of Climatology Baker Perry said. “Everyone can help, no matter their age or background!”
CoCoRaHS allows observers to share their precipitation measurements via the internet, which can be used by agencies who need accurate, real-time precipitation data for various applications. The NWS uses CoCoRaHS precipitation data daily in river forecast models, flood and drought forecasts, and precipitation and snowfall maps and tables.
“Observations not only help us verify what did or did not occur, but also improve meteorological forecast skill for future events,” Dawn Johnson, warning coordination meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Reno, said.
The only equipment needed to join CoCoRaHS is a standard 4-inch diameter plastic rain gauge and access to the internet to enter reports. Gauges can be for less than $50, and a limited quantity is available for free through the Nevada State Climate Office.
“Observers can report precipitation daily or only on days when they are able to take measurements,” Perry added. “We are happy to take as much data as participants can provide.”
CoCoRaHS observers can also send real-time severe weather reports to the National Weather Service, including hail size, flooding, storm damage and excessive rainfall, which greatly assist meteorologists in issuing life-saving weather warnings and determining the impact of storms on local communities.
Precipitation observations are few and far between in Nevada due to its vast yet sparsely populated counties and CoCoRaHS is an invaluable citizen science network for the NWS and other state and federal agencies to help fill gaps.
“Precipitation totals can vary substantially over very short distances and CoCoRaHS observations can help the NWS provide more accurate forecasts and warnings,” Johnson added.
“There is a particular need for volunteers in rural and higher elevation areas across the state,” Perry said.
He emphasized that CoCoRaHS is a community project and encourages those interested in weather to get involved. Those interested in becoming a CoCoRaHS Volunteer Observer can . Additional information on the CoCoRaHS program, including data and how to join the network, is . Training and education videos are available at the .
