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nws weather
What is NWS Weather?
A Comprehensive Guide to the National Weather Service (NWS)
What is the National Weather Service (NWS)?
The National Weather Service (NWS) is a federal agency within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) that provides weather, water, and climate forecasts and warnings for the United States, its territories, adjacent waters, and ocean areas. The NWS operates 24/7 and its services include issuing weather forecasts, watches, warnings, and advisories; conducting research on weather-related phenomena; and providing education and outreach programs on weather safety.
What Types of Services Does the NWS Provide?
The NWS provides a wide range of services to the public, including:
- Weather forecasts: The NWS provides forecasts for short-term (0-7 days), medium-range (7-30 days), and long-range (30 days or more) periods for specific locations and regions.
- Watches, warnings, and advisories: The NWS issues watches when conditions are favorable for severe weather to develop; warnings when severe weather is imminent or occurring; and advisories when weather conditions could pose a hazard.
- Research: The NWS conducts research to improve its understanding of weather-related phenomena and to develop new forecasting techniques.
- Education and outreach: The NWS provides education and outreach programs to the public on weather safety and how to prepare for and respond to severe weather.
What are NWS Weather Zones?
The NWS has divided the United States into 122 weather zones, each of which is served by a Weather Forecast Office (WFO). WFOs are responsible for issuing weather forecasts, watches, warnings, and advisories for their respective zones. The zones are based on a variety of factors, including geography, climate, and population density.
How Can I Access NWS Weather Information?
You can access NWS weather information through a variety of channels, including:
- NWS website: The NWS website provides a wealth of weather information, including forecasts, watches, warnings, advisories, and research reports. You can also find information on specific weather events, such as hurricanes and tornadoes.
- NWS mobile app: The NWS mobile app provides access to the same information as the NWS website, but in a mobile-friendly format. You can also receive push notifications for severe weather alerts.
- NOAA Weather Radio: NOAA Weather Radio is a network of radio stations that broadcast weather forecasts, watches, warnings, and advisories 24/7. You can listen to NOAA Weather Radio on your car radio or at home with a dedicated receiver.
How Can I Stay Safe During Severe Weather?
The NWS provides a number of tips to help you stay safe during severe weather, including:
- Be aware of the weather forecast: Pay attention to local weather forecasts and be prepared to take action if severe weather is expected.
- Have a plan: Know what you will do if severe weather strikes. This may include identifying a safe place to shelter, making sure you have supplies on hand, and knowing how to contact emergency services.
- Take action: If a severe weather warning is issued, take action to protect yourself and your property. This may include seeking shelter, securing loose objects, and staying away from windows.