NWS: Latest Weather Forecasts, Alerts & Reports

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The National Weather Service (NWS) is a crucial source of weather information in the United States, providing forecasts, warnings, and data to protect lives and property. Understanding how to use the NWS effectively can help you stay safe and informed about changing weather conditions.

What is the National Weather Service?

The National Weather Service is an agency of the U.S. federal government, part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Its primary mission is to provide weather, water, and climate forecasts and warnings for the United States, its territories, adjacent waters, and ocean areas. NWS data and products are used by various sectors, including:

  • Emergency management
  • Aviation
  • Agriculture
  • Transportation
  • Recreation

Key Products and Services

The NWS offers a wide array of products and services to keep the public informed:

  • Weather Forecasts: Daily and extended forecasts for various locations.
  • Severe Weather Alerts: Warnings for tornadoes, hurricanes, floods, and other hazardous weather events.
  • River and Hydrological Data: Information on river levels and flood potential.
  • Climate Data: Historical weather data and climate summaries.
  • Aviation Weather Services: Forecasts and warnings for pilots and aviation professionals.

How to Access NWS Information

There are several ways to access information from the National Weather Service:

  1. Website: The NWS website (weather.gov) is the primary source of information. You can enter your city or zip code to find local forecasts and warnings.
  2. Mobile App: The NOAA Weather Unofficial app provides real-time weather alerts and forecasts on your smartphone.
  3. Social Media: Many local NWS offices have social media accounts on platforms like Twitter and Facebook, where they post updates and warnings.
  4. Broadcasts: NOAA Weather Radio is a nationwide network broadcasting weather information 24/7.

Understanding NWS Alerts

The NWS issues various types of alerts to inform the public about hazardous weather conditions. It's important to know the difference between them:

  • Watch: A watch means that conditions are favorable for a particular hazard to occur. It's time to prepare.
  • Warning: A warning means that a hazard is occurring or is imminent. Take action to protect yourself.
  • Advisory: An advisory is issued for less serious conditions that could still be hazardous.

Tips for Staying Safe During Severe Weather

  • Stay Informed: Monitor NWS forecasts and alerts regularly.
  • Have a Plan: Develop a family emergency plan, including evacuation routes and meeting points.
  • Build a Kit: Assemble a disaster supply kit with food, water, medications, and other essentials.
  • Seek Shelter: During a severe weather event, seek shelter in a sturdy building or designated safe area.

By staying informed and prepared, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from the dangers of severe weather. Use the resources provided by the National Weather Service to stay ahead of the storm.