A Successful 2013 Open House at NWS Birmingham

On Saturday, February 16th, 2013, the National Weather Service in Birmingham hosted its annual Open House. Hundreds from around the state attended on a chilly and windy day in Calera. Dignitaries from local municipalities and state agencies also stopped by to visit the office. The police and fire departments from Calera, Alabaster, Pelham and Hoover were in attendance. Buck's Pizza in Alabaster helped out by providing concessions for those who wanted to learn more about the National Weather Service. The Alabama ALERT group also were a great help throughout the day. The Alabama Emergency Management Agency brought some of their equipment to display. We would like to extend a special thanks to all of the agencies, businesses and individuals who made our Open House the success it was! The image above of virga at sunset over the NWS Birmingham office was provided by Dave Jones.

NWS BMX forecaster Tara Goggins provides the opening presentation for those who attended, explaining who the NWS is and what we do

NOAA Weather Radios
NWS BMX Warning Coordination Meteorologist John De Block, forecaster Mary Keiser and volunteer Andi Westland meet and greet the 350 people who attended

ASOS tour
NWS BMX Science and Operations Officer Kevin Laws explains the Automated Surface Observation Station (ASOS) to onlookers here at Shelby County Airport

Hydrology tour
NWS BMX Service Hydrologist Roger McNeil demonstrates our flood plain model and explains flash flooding, areal flooding and how excessive rain can affect you

Upper Air tour
NWS BMX forecaster Aaron Gleason explains our Upper Air program to interested onlookers

Jimmy Sapp, Alabaster Mayor Marty Handlon, NWS BMX OPL Kristina Sumrall (left to right) take a tour of the office

Visitors
Open House attendees visit with the Calera Fire Department

ALERT
Alabama ALERT group

The Help
Alabama ALERT member and NWS Open House volunteer Ronnie King and Kevin Laws try to stay warm while directing traffic

The Future of NWS
Budding meteorologists enjoy some of the Calera Fire Department's Swift Water Rescue equipment