The annual WX4NHC On-the-Air Station Test from the National Hurricane Center (NHC) in Miami will take place Saturday, June 1, 1300-2100 UTC (9 AM-5 PM EDT). “The purpose of this annual station test is to test all of our radio equipment, computers and antennas using as many modes and frequencies as possible in preparation for this year’s hurricane season,” said WX4NHC Assistant Amateur Radio Volunteer Coordinator Julio Ripoll, WD4R. “This is not a contest or simulated hurricane exercise.”

WX4NHC will be on the air on HF, VHF and UHF, as well as 2 and 30 meter APRS. Suggested SSB frequencies are 3.950, 7.268, 14.325, 21.325 and 28.425 MHz, +/-QRM. WX4NHC also will be on the VoIP Hurricane Net from 1700-1900 UTC (IRLP node 9219/EchoLink WX-TALK conference node 7203) and on VHF/UHF repeaters in Southern Florida. Stations looking to participate in the annual station test may be able to find WX4NHC on HF by using one of the DX spotting networks, such as DX Summit.

Stations working WX4NHC exchange call sign, signal report, location and name, plus a brief weather report, such as “sunny,” “rainy” or “cloudy.” Non-hams may submit their actual weather using the Online Weather Report Form. QSL cards will be available via WD4R and must include a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Do not send cards to the NHC. Due to security measures, no visitors will be allowed at the NHC during the test.