Editing Storm Prediction Center (section)

==Overview==
The Storm Prediction Center is responsible for forecasting the risk of severe weather caused by severe thunderstorms, specifically those producing tornadoes, hail of {{convert|1|in|cm|spell=in}} in diameter or larger, and/or winds of {{convert|58|mph|km/h}} [50 knots] or greater. The agency also forecasts hazardous [[winter storm|winter]] and [[wildfire#Effect of climate|fire weather]] conditions. It does so primarily by issuing [[convective outlook]]s, [[severe thunderstorm watch]]es, [[tornado watch]]es and mesoscale discussions.<ref name="process"/>

There is a three-stage process in which the area, time period, and details of a severe weather forecast are refined from a broad-scale forecast of potential hazards to a more specific and detailed forecast of what hazards are expected, and where and in what time frame they are expected to occur. If warranted, forecasts will also increase in severity through this three-stage process.<ref name="process"/>

The Storm Prediction Center employs a total of 43 personnel, including five lead forecasters, ten mesoscale/outlook forecasters, and seven assistant mesoscale forecasters.<ref name="Employees">{{cite web|title=Storm Prediction Center Employees|url=http://www.spc.noaa.gov/staff/|website=Storm Prediction Center|publisher=National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration|access-date=April 8, 2010}}</ref> Many SPC forecasters and support staff are heavily involved in scientific research into severe and hazardous weather. This involves conducting applied research and writing technical papers, developing training materials, giving seminars and other presentations locally and nationwide, attending scientific conferences, and participating in weather experiments.<ref name="overview"/>