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I did end up getting into ham radio, and one of my motivations was to keep in contact during a weather emergency as we get wild weather this time of year too. Thankfully there's a repeater nearby that talks about the weather and has spotters getting together when severe weather does come. I mostly rely on them these days. I think they are led by NWS staff, but amateurs from all over the area talk on there.
I really should be doing this. I've talked about it for years. I guess I didn't need a license to listen at least.
The technician (lowest license level) license is fairly easy if you take some online practice quizzes, or study the old-fashioned way if you want. But you're right, you don't need a license just to listen. A Baofeng handheld radio and maybe an upgraded antenna should be all you need to listen to local repeaters. You can look up your area online and find the frequencies and settings to access them. Transmitting without a license can get you into trouble, but exceptions are made for emergencies.
Got my GT-5R today. I found a club that hosts tests monthly, next one is next week, I'm not sure I'll do that one, but May is on the docket. Thanks for the motivation.