Behind the Forecast: A Conversation with Jeremy Martin of the National Weather Service
- Kristina Hemel
- Mar 26
- 3 min read
Spring in the High Plains means everything from sunshine and 80 degrees to snow flurries in the same week—and if you’ve ever wondered who’s keeping track of it all, it’s folks like Jeremy Martin. As the Meteorologist in Charge at the National Weather Service (NWS) office in Goodland, Kansas, Jeremy leads a small but mighty team dedicated to keeping communities safe and informed.
From the Forecast Desk to the Community
While many of us only think of the National Weather Service during tornado season or winter storms, the work they do is year-round, 24/7. Jeremy's team of 15 people includes seven meteorologists, technicians, IT support, and assistant managers. When fully staffed, the office can hold 21 people—but like many industries, they’re feeling the pinch of recruitment challenges, especially when it comes to attracting experienced meteorologists to rural areas.
“We’re actually trying a new staffing model,” Jeremy said. “Instead of having two people on duty overnight, we’re adjusting shifts to better match when severe weather is most likely—like late afternoons and evenings during the summer.”
What Makes a Tornado Tick?
Jeremy’s passion for weather runs deep—and so does his knowledge. During our chat, he broke down the science of tornado formation. Spoiler alert: it’s not as simple as warm meets cold.
“We used to think tornadoes formed from the cloud down,” he said. “But newer research shows they actually form from the ground up—or at least at the same time. It’s all about balance between the storm’s updraft and downdraft. If anything’s off, it won’t produce a tornado.”
And yes, there’s more than one kind. From spin-ups along squall lines to classic supercells, not all tornadoes behave the same. That makes forecasting a delicate dance of variables—and sometimes, things just don’t line up. “That’s why we issue a watch or warning, and then people say, ‘Where’s the tornado?’” Jeremy said with a laugh. “It’s complicated.”
Tornado Season Is Here—Are You Ready?
March through June is peak severe weather season in the central U.S., and as Jeremy reminded us, it’s not just Oklahoma or Texas that need to stay alert.
“Back in 2007, we had a tornado outbreak on March 28th that produced 12 tornadoes just in our area,” he recalled. “There were 63 tornadoes across the Plains in eight hours. It was terrifying.”
While events like that are rare, they highlight the importance of awareness. Jeremy encourages everyone to pay attention to both watches (which mean conditions are favorable) and warnings (which mean take cover immediately).
And if you see something—say something.
“People assume we always know what’s going on, but we rely heavily on local reports,” Jeremy said. “Whether it’s hail, flooding, wind damage—let us know. Facebook, X, even a phone call. Your report might be the reason we issue a warning.”
Training the Next Generation
For those considering a career in meteorology, Jeremy offers both encouragement and a reality check. “It’s a competitive field and you need a lot of math,” he said. “Differential equations, calculus—be ready. But if you love it, it’s worth it.”
He recommends schools like the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, University of Kansas, and of course, the University of Oklahoma, which is home to a major meteorology program and the Storm Prediction Center.
“Most states have one or two schools with a meteorology program,” he said. “But it’s a niche major—you have to do your homework.”
More Than Just the Weather
Between tracking storm systems, issuing warnings, and running training sessions for storm spotters, the Goodland NWS office is busy. But Jeremy still finds time for life outside the radar screen—from cheering on his daughter’s high school track and basketball events to grabbing tickets for local events like the donkey basketball fundraiser.
Still, weather is never far from mind.
“This time of year, we’re high-alert,” Jeremy said. “Thunderstorms, dust storms, late snow—anything can happen out here.”
And thanks to the dedication of Jeremy and his team, we’re all a little more prepared when it does.
Want to Report Severe Weather?
📞 Call the Goodland NWS Office
🌐 Message them on Facebook
🐦 Tag them on X (Twitter) @NWSGoodland
And remember: Watches mean be aware. Warnings mean take action.
Let me know if you'd like this turned into a printable newsletter piece or if you'd like to include photos or graphics for a web version!
Info taken from interview given by Rollie Halligan on the KLOE 730 Good Neighbor Hour
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