The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is a scientific agency under the U.S. federal government, specifically within the Department of Commerce. Established in 1970, NOAA came about by merging several agencies, including the Weather Bureau and the Coast and Geodetic Survey. Its main goal is to understand and predict changes in our climate, weather, oceans, and coasts. NOAA also aims to share this vital information with the public while conserving coastal and marine ecosystems.
One important branch of NOAA is the National Weather Service (NWS). The NWS provides crucial data on weather, water, and climate. They issue forecasts and warnings to help protect lives and property, while also supporting the economy. A key part of the NWS is the Aviation Weather Center, which offers weather information for the global airspace system. On their website, you can find various forecasts, advisories, and helpful tools.
The Aviation Weather Center is just one of nine national centers that make up the NOAA National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP), founded in 1958. Other centers include the National Hurricane Center and the Space Weather Prediction Center. Together, these organizations work to keep us informed and safe from weather-related hazards.
