Description

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is a scientific agency of the U.S. federal government. It falls within the U.S. Department of Commerce. NOAA was formed in 1970 through the combination of several existing agencies, including the Weather Bureau, Coast and Geodetic Survey, and the National Satellite Center, among others.

Mission

NOAA’s mission is to understand and predict changes in climate, weather, ocean, and coasts, and to share that knowledge and information with others, and to conserve and manage coastal and marine ecosystems and resources.

National Weather Service

Among the offices that fall under NOAA is the National Weather Service (NWS), the mission of which is to provide weather, water and climate data, forecasts, warnings, and impact-based decision support services for the protection of life and property and enhancement of the national economy.