Station Overview
WX4PTC is the amateur‑radio call sign for the SKYWARN Net Control station operated at the National Weather Service (NWS) Forecast Office in Peachtree City, Georgia. This amateur radio station is equipped with dual-band VHF/UHF radios, and an HF transceiver to facilitate statewide SKYWARN nets during severe weather events. Additionally, the station utilizes three repeaters for net control operations, including its primary hub repeater on 444.600 MHz with a +5 MHz offset and 77.0 Hz PL tone.
It serves as the primary liaison point between volunteer field spotters, local SKYWARN networks, and the NWS forecasting team covering northern and central Georgia. The station is staffed by volunteer ARES/SKYWARN operators upon activation by the NWS, ensuring real-time relay of critical weather reports to meteorologists for timely warnings and forecasts.
Activation Process
- Severe weather (tornado, hail, damaging wind, flash flood) triggers the spotter network.
- The NWS Warnings Coordinator contacts the WX4PTC Net Control Team.
- Volunteer ARES/SKYWARN operators staff the WX4PTC station and open the net.
Trigger Flow
- NWS issues a severe‑weather statement or warning requesting spotter activation.
- NWS Warnings Coordinator activates WX4PTC team.
- WX4PTC operates the SKYWARN net on the linked repeater system.
- Spotters submit report via radio on the SKYWARN linked repeater system, by phone (866‑763‑4466), or online form.
How the Net Operates
- The SKYWARN net is a directed net. All traffic should go through net control.
- Spotters check‑in on the Georgia SKYWARN linked repeaters.
- Priority reports are relayed directly to the NWS Net Control (NCS) at WX4PTC to avoid congestion.
- If radio is unavailable, reports can be submitted by phone or via the NWS online storm‑report form.