Operational Weather Squadron critical to mission success

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Jannelle Dickey
  • 2nd Bomb Wing Public Affairs
BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. -- --  BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. - The experts at the 26th Operational Weather Squadron ensure accurate observations, forecasts and notifications to prevent damage or loss of an aircraft, equipment and even life.

The Airmen of the 26th OWS operate around the clock to provide precise weather information to include flight weather briefings and weather watches, warnings, and advisories over a 13-state region of the southeastern United States.

"Our first job is to assess the forecasted weather then we put out a watch, which is a window when we believe a threat may occur," said Airman 1st Class James Nelson, 26th OWS weather forecaster. "As we get more concrete evidence and in-tuned with when it will exactly happen, we disseminate a warning."

The forecasts are utilized by commanders and pilots during the decision-making process of planning or rerouting a mission. 

"We provide weather intel to the warfighters so they can perform daily operations, the mission and conduct training," said Tech. Sgt. Travis Gieger, 26th OWS graphics weather forecaster lead. "Every airframe is susceptible to certain weather parameters; we give the pilot a graphical depiction and a form that informs them on what flying limitations they could possibly see in route."

These parameters include weather conditions such as rain showers, freezing rain, heavy snow and hail.

The squadron also issues weather watches, warnings, and advisories to prepare Team Barksdale against the potential damage to the installation and aircraft such weather conditions may cause.

"The 26th OWS as a whole provides resource protection. If we don't do our job the result can be millions of dollars in damage," said Senior Airman Gabriel Marchant, 26th Operational Weather Squadron weather forecaster. "We make sure to issue a WWA in enough lead time so people can properly prepare for any vital threats."

High winds could flip aircraft, hail can crack windows and cause damage to aircraft structures and rotors, and if personnel are outside during a severe storm, it could cause serious injuries or loss of life.  It's a heavy responsibility to relay accurate information, Gieger explained.

"This is a big operation. A lot of forecasters and personnel are involved at different levels to make sure all of our units and families are protected," he said. "Literally, lives are in our hands every day and we want to make sure we give them 100 percent up-to-date and accurate weather intel."

Along with the great responsibility, the 26th OWS recognizes the significance of their mission.

"It's satisfying to know when you've issued a warning you're saving people's lives," said Gieger. "It makes a big impact and you see it on a daily, it's very rewarding."