Did you know the National Weather Service (NWS) has been keeping Americans safe for over 150 years? Founded on February 9, 1870, as the United States Weather Bureau, it became the NWS in 1970. This agency, part of NOAA under the Department of Commerce, provides critical weather forecasts, warnings, and data. Headquartered in Silver Spring, Maryland, the NWS operates through 122 local Weather Forecast Offices and six regional centers. From pioneering computer forecasts to launching weather satellites, the NWS has revolutionized how we understand and respond to weather. Let's dive into 50 fascinating facts about this essential service.
Key Takeaways:
- The National Weather Service (NWS) has a rich history dating back to 1870, providing critical weather forecasts and warnings to protect life and property in the United States.
- The NWS has continually evolved, adopting new technologies and pioneering forecasting methods to improve weather prediction, public safety, and community preparedness.
The Origins and Evolution of the National Weather Service
The National Weather Service (NWS) has a rich history that spans over 150 years. It has grown from humble beginnings to become a critical part of weather forecasting and emergency preparedness in the United States.
- Founding: The NWS was founded on February 9, 1870, marking the start of its long journey in weather services.
- Name Change: Originally called the United States Weather Bureau, it adopted its current name in 1970.
- Mission: The NWS aims to provide weather forecasts, warnings of hazardous weather, and other weather-related products to protect life and property.
- Parent Organization: It operates under the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), which is part of the Department of Commerce.
- Headquarters: The NWS is headquartered in Silver Spring, Maryland, close to Washington, D.C.
Structure and Operations
The NWS is organized into various offices and centers, each playing a crucial role in delivering accurate weather information.
- Structure: The NWS consists of 122 local Weather Forecast Offices (WFOs) and six regional centers.
- Products: It issues a wide range of products, including severe thunderstorm and tornado warnings, flood alerts, and aviation forecasts.
- History: Weather has always been vital to the U.S., with early forecasts delivered by mail carriers.
- Early Operations: Initially, forecasts were sent via mail, which had limitations like delays in receiving updates.
- Flood Damage Statistics: The Weather Bureau began collecting national flood damage statistics to aid future mitigation efforts.
Technological Advancements
The NWS has continually adopted new technologies to improve its forecasting capabilities.
- Fire District Forecast Center: Established in Medford, Oregon, to provide critical fire weather forecasts.
- Transatlantic Flight: The first U.S. Navy seaplane transatlantic flight marked a milestone in aviation history.
- World Meteorological Organization: The U.S. Weather Bureau played a key role in forming the WMO under the U.N.
- Data Tabulation Unit: Moved to Asheville, North Carolina, becoming the National Climatic Data Center.
- Radar Technology: The first radar for meteorological use, the AN/CPS-9, was unveiled by the Air Weather Service, USAF.
Innovations in Forecasting
The NWS has pioneered several forecasting methods and models that have revolutionized weather prediction.
- Computer Forecasts: The Joint Numerical Forecast Unit began regularly scheduled operational computer forecasts.
- Barotropic Model: Developed by the Weather Bureau, this model was a significant advancement in numerical predictions.
- Severe Weather Forecasting: The Weather Bureau took full responsibility for severe weather forecasting, establishing the National Severe Storms Center in Kansas City.
- Training Programs: Special training began for Federal Aviation Authority employees to brief pilots.
- Clear Air Turbulence: The USAF Air Weather Service issued the first official forecast of clear air turbulence.
International Collaboration and Satellite Technology
The NWS has collaborated internationally and adopted satellite technology to enhance its services.
- International Workshop: Sponsored by NASA and the Weather Bureau, attended by scientists from 27 countries.
- TIROS III Satellite: Launched with automatic picture transmission capability, providing continuous cloud images to over 100 nations.
- National Severe Storms Laboratory: Established in Norman, Oklahoma, to improve severe local storm predictions.
- AMS Intervention: The American Meteorological Society intervened in the case of Kenneth T.C. Cheng, highlighting the importance of accurate forecasting.
- Dr. George Cressman: Named chief of the Weather Bureau and first director of the NWS when it was renamed in 1970.
Modernization and Community Programs
The NWS has continually modernized its operations and engaged with communities to improve weather preparedness.
- Computer Numerical Model: Introduced a model capable of making sea level predictions as accurate as manual ones.
- Fire Weather Forecasts: Extended to cover the contiguous U.S., providing critical information for fire safety.
- Modernization Plan: Announced an eight-year, $4.5 billion plan to modernize and restructure the NWS.
- Technological Advancements: Developed and implemented five major technologies, including advanced radar systems.
- Directorship: Dr. Elbert W. “Joe” Friday, Jr., served as director of the NWS until 1997.
Public Safety and Preparedness
The NWS plays a crucial role in public safety by providing timely warnings and preparedness resources.
- Hurricane Preparedness: The National Hurricane Center helped limit loss of life from Hurricane Hugo.
- Storm Spotters (SKYWARN): Initiated to train volunteers in identifying and reporting severe weather conditions.
- StormReady Program: Established to help communities prepare for severe weather events.
- CoCoRaHS: Created to gather precipitation data from volunteers, aiding hydrological studies.
- Local Research and Outreach: Engages in local climatology studies and GIS data collection.
Weather Safety and Communication
The NWS emphasizes weather safety through various programs and communication channels.
- Weather Safety: Provides materials like the All-Hazards Awareness Booklet and severe weather preparedness guides.
- NOAA Weather Radio: Operates a network of radio stations broadcasting critical weather information 24/7.
- Severe Weather Preparedness: Offers extensive resources, including safety rules and awareness weeks.
- Hurricane Preparedness: Provides information and resources to help communities prepare for hurricanes.
- Summer Safety Campaign: Educates the public about heat-related illnesses and other summer weather hazards.
Winter Weather and Drought Monitoring
The NWS also focuses on winter weather and drought conditions, providing essential information for safety and planning.
- Winter Weather: Offers critical information and resources, including snowfall forecasts and winter storm warnings.
- US Department of Commerce: The NWS is part of the Department of Commerce, which oversees its operations.
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA): The NWS is a branch of NOAA, encompassing a wide range of research and services.
- NWS Birmingham, Alabama: Serves as a model office, providing comprehensive weather services to the region.
- Current Hazards: Provides real-time information on hazards like severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, and floods.
National and Regional Forecasts
The NWS issues national and regional forecasts to help communities prepare for various weather conditions.
- National Outlooks: Issues national outlooks on weather conditions, aiding decision-making.
- Tropical Cyclone Reports: Provides detailed reports on tropical cyclones, including their movement and potential impacts.
- Graphical Hazardous Weather Outlook: Issues visual representations of potential weather threats.
- Regional Highs/Lows/Rainfall: Provides regional temperature forecasts and rainfall predictions.
- Drought Monitor: Tracks drought conditions across the country, offering critical information for water management and agriculture.
The National Weather Service: A Pillar of Weather Forecasting
The National Weather Service (NWS) has been a cornerstone of weather forecasting and emergency preparedness for over 150 years. From its humble beginnings as the United States Weather Bureau to its current role within NOAA, the NWS has continually evolved to meet the needs of the public. With 122 local Weather Forecast Offices, advanced radar systems, and a commitment to safety, the NWS provides critical weather forecasts, warnings, and other products. Programs like SKYWARN and StormReady help communities prepare for severe weather, while initiatives like CoCoRaHS gather valuable precipitation data. The NWS also plays a key role in hurricane preparedness, fire weather forecasts, and drought monitoring. Through its dedication to innovation and public safety, the NWS remains an essential resource for protecting lives and property across the United States.
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