Importance of citizen network of weather watchers

South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster has proclaimed March 1-7 as South Carolina Citizen Weather Observer Week, celebrating and recognizing the individuals that make up South Carolina the climatological database generated through the efforts of volunteer observers, such as Walhalla’s Barbara Wilson. They stand as the cornerstone of the nation’s weather history. The data provided are not only crucial for research, but used by private industry, all levels of government, and individuals to make weather-related decisions across the country. Melissa Griffin, assistant state climatologist, stated, “Since record-keeping started in the mid- to late-1800s, we have been able to monitor the trends and variability of our state’s climate thanks to their dedication.” Despite its increasing importance to the nation, it is a challenge to find volunteers to take weather observations for a short number of years, and rare to find someone, or a family, willing to volunteer their time for decades or even a century. Walhalla’s Wilson was part of one such family. Her late aunt, Henrietta Brandt, spent decades recording Walhalla’s high temperatures, low temperatures, and precipitation. Citizen weather observers have relayed critical information during extreme events, such as hurricanes, drought, severe and winter weather that have facilitated quicker actions by state and federal entities to help protect life and property.”We feel those who have volunteered to provide these services illustrate the testament to the character of the citizens of South Carolina and should be recognized for their efforts that benefit the state and the nation,” said Dr. Hope Mizzell, South Carolina State Climatologist.