Bringing More 911 Dispatch Centers into the NWSChat
Sphere (119)
Mark Burchfield, NOAA/National
Weather Service, Springfield, MO
Abstract:
The National Weather Service
instant messaging service, NWSChat, has been an instrumental tool in getting
important key messages and information to NWS core partners. The primary core
partner groups that have utilized NWSChat are: Emergency Managers, Media and
National Weather Service Meteorologists, although some local storm spotter and
amateur radio groups also utilize NWSChat.
An initiative was begun to
bring in local 911 dispatch centers. The basis behind this was that 911
dispatch centers operate, in many respects, similar to the National Weather
Service. Both are 24-hour operational centers that disseminate critical
information to a group of people or partner agencies. Dispatch centers are also
excellent information center hubs that can, in turn, relay information to the
NWS. Numerous site visits have been made to local 911 dispatch centers by local
NWS meteorologists. The NWS has learned a great deal about their operations,
provided training on NWSchat, and even run through some demonstrations with
them. The NWS has increased 911 dispatch centers in chat six-fold over the past
few years.
As an example, during the
evening of January 21, 2018, a supercell went just south of Mount Vernon,
Missouri. Radar operators detected tornadic debris signatures, and conveyed
their locations over NWSchat. This allowed the 911 dispatchers to advise their
medical and fire personnel of the location of tornado debris. Building
relationships with the 911 dispatch centers will continue to enhance decision
support services for the National Weather Service.