National Weather Service

The National Weather Service (NWS) is an agency of the United States federal government that is tasked with providing weather forecasts, warnings of hazardous weather, and other weather-related products to organizations and the public for the purposes of protection, safety, and general information. It is a part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) branch of the Department of Commerce, and is headquartered in Silver Spring, Maryland, within the Washington metropolitan area. The agency was known as the United States Weather Bureau from 1890 until it adopted its current name in 1970.
national-weather-service

Some of the key events about National Weather Service

  • 1870
    Established as a new weather forecasting division within the U.S. Army Signal Corps
  • 1887
    Failed to predict the deadly "Schoolhouse Blizzard" in the Midwest, resulting in hundreds of deaths
  • 1890
    Transferred to the Department of Agriculture, expanding its civilian weather services
  • 1900
    Underestimated the severity of the Galveston hurricane, leading to inadequate warnings and massive loss of life
  • 1935
    Introduced the first hurricane warning system for the Atlantic coast
  • 1935
    Provided insufficient warning for the Labor Day Hurricane in the Florida Keys, resulting in over 400 deaths
  • 1938
    Failed to accurately predict the path and intensity of the Great New England Hurricane, causing extensive damage and loss of life
  • 1950
    Began using computers for weather forecasting, significantly improving accuracy
  • 1960
    Launched the first weather satellite, TIROS-1, revolutionizing weather observation
  • 1969
    Underestimated the strength of Hurricane Camille, leading to inadequate preparations and significant casualties
  • 1970
    Implemented the first Doppler weather radar system for severe storm detection
  • 1974
    Issued late warnings for the Super Outbreak of tornadoes, contributing to a high death toll
  • 1987
    Faced criticism for inaccurate forecasts during the "Storm of the Century" in the United Kingdom
  • 1988
    Introduced the Advanced Weather Interactive Processing System (AWIPS) for improved data analysis
  • 1992
    Initially underestimated the strength of Hurricane Andrew, delaying evacuation orders in Florida
  • 1994
    Launched the NEXRAD network of advanced Doppler radar systems across the United States
  • 2005
    Underestimated the potential impact of Hurricane Katrina, contributing to inadequate preparations in New Orleans
  • 2007
    Implemented the Storm Prediction Center's convective outlook system for severe weather forecasting
  • 2012
    Faced controversy for discontinuing the use of the term "hurricane" in warnings for Superstorm Sandy, potentially downplaying its severity
  • 2019
    Upgraded its Global Forecast System (GFS) model, enhancing long-range weather predictions

Disclaimer: This material is written based on information taken from open sources, including Wikipedia, news media, podcasts, and other public sources.

National Weather Service Latest news

Storm Surge: The Silent Killer in Hurricane Helene's Path

Storm Surge: The Silent Killer in Hurricane Helene's Path

September 27 2024, 11:08 AM  •  48 views
Florida Hospitals Brace for Hurricane Helene's Potential Devastation

Florida Hospitals Brace for Hurricane Helene's Potential Devastation

September 27 2024, 10:56 AM  •  17 views
Powerful Hurricane Helene Threatens Florida with Catastrophic Storm Surge

Powerful Hurricane Helene Threatens Florida with Catastrophic Storm Surge

September 27 2024, 09:50 AM  •  41 views
Tropical Storm Helene Threatens Florida's Gulf Coast with Hurricane Potential

Tropical Storm Helene Threatens Florida's Gulf Coast with Hurricane Potential

September 24 2024, 10:03 PM  •  201 views
Tropical Storm Helene Threatens Cuba and Florida with Potential Hurricane Impact

Tropical Storm Helene Threatens Cuba and Florida with Potential Hurricane Impact

September 24 2024, 08:45 PM  •  1269 views
Major Hurricane Threat Looms Over Gulf Coast as Storm Intensifies

Major Hurricane Threat Looms Over Gulf Coast as Storm Intensifies

September 24 2024, 12:37 PM  •  586 views
Phoenix Shatters Heat Record: 113 Days Above 100°F Sparks Concern

Phoenix Shatters Heat Record: 113 Days Above 100°F Sparks Concern

September 23 2024, 08:42 PM  •  1432 views
Severe Storm Wreaks Havoc in Pawnee, Oklahoma: One Fatality Reported

Severe Storm Wreaks Havoc in Pawnee, Oklahoma: One Fatality Reported

September 20 2024, 01:47 PM  •  585 views
Carolinas Hit by Unexpected Deluge: Climate Change's Role in Extreme Rainfall

Carolinas Hit by Unexpected Deluge: Climate Change's Role in Extreme Rainfall

September 17 2024, 11:15 PM  •  370 views
Tropical Storm Threatens Southeast U.S. with Heavy Rain and Flooding

Tropical Storm Threatens Southeast U.S. with Heavy Rain and Flooding

September 16 2024, 12:21 PM  •  4648 views
Southeast Coast on Alert: Tropical Storm Warning Issued

Southeast Coast on Alert: Tropical Storm Warning Issued

September 16 2024, 12:52 AM  •  2330 views
Storm Francine Weakens but Threatens Gulf Coast with Flooding and Outages

Storm Francine Weakens but Threatens Gulf Coast with Flooding and Outages

September 12 2024, 03:38 PM  •  1313 views
Gulf Coast Braces for Hurricane Francine as Oil Production Halts

Gulf Coast Braces for Hurricane Francine as Oil Production Halts

September 11 2024, 03:17 PM  •  319 views
Tragic Hot Car Incident Claims 3-Year-Old's Life in Buckeye, Arizona

Tragic Hot Car Incident Claims 3-Year-Old's Life in Buckeye, Arizona

September 9 2024, 08:04 PM  •  510 views
Gulf Disturbance Threatens Texas and Louisiana with Heavy Rain, Possible Hurricane

Gulf Disturbance Threatens Texas and Louisiana with Heavy Rain, Possible Hurricane

September 8 2024, 07:28 PM  •  1396 views
Global Unrest: Protests, Elections, and Climate Challenges Dominate Headlines

Global Unrest: Protests, Elections, and Climate Challenges Dominate Headlines

September 2 2024, 10:34 AM  •  800 views
Massive Power Outages Hit Michigan as Storms Ravage Midwest

Massive Power Outages Hit Michigan as Storms Ravage Midwest

August 28 2024, 05:37 PM  •  1862 views
Tragic Outcome: Woman's Body Recovered After Grand Canyon Flash Flood

Tragic Outcome: Woman's Body Recovered After Grand Canyon Flash Flood

August 27 2024, 12:15 PM  •  400 views
Rare August Snow Dusts Western U.S. Mountains Amid Fire Risks

Rare August Snow Dusts Western U.S. Mountains Amid Fire Risks

August 24 2024, 06:20 PM  •  3979 views
Tropical Storm Hone Approaches Hawaii: Precautions and Comparisons

Tropical Storm Hone Approaches Hawaii: Precautions and Comparisons

August 23 2024, 08:26 AM  •  616 views
Trump's Disaster Misinformation: A Pattern of Politicizing Natural Calamities

Trump's Disaster Misinformation: A Pattern of Politicizing Natural Calamities

Former President Trump's history of spreading misinformation about natural disasters continues with recent claims about Hurricane Helene. Experts warn of the dangers in politicizing disaster response.

Politics, Science • October 8 2024, 09:04 AM  •  1627 views
Misinformation Storm Follows Hurricane Helene's Devastation

Misinformation Storm Follows Hurricane Helene's Devastation

In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, false rumors and conspiracy theories flood social media, complicating rescue efforts. Officials combat misinformation as the U.S. presidential election looms.

Society, Politics • October 5 2024, 11:11 AM  •  811 views
Tragic Loss: Mother and Twin Infants Perish in Georgia Hurricane

Tragic Loss: Mother and Twin Infants Perish in Georgia Hurricane

A young mother and her month-old twin boys lost their lives when Hurricane Helene struck rural Georgia. The tragedy unfolded as a tree crashed through their trailer home, leaving family members devastated.

Society, Culture • October 5 2024, 07:58 AM  •  609 views
Trump's False Claims on Hurricane Helene Response Spark White House Rebuke

Trump's False Claims on Hurricane Helene Response Spark White House Rebuke

Former President Trump spreads misinformation about Hurricane Helene relief efforts, prompting a strong response from the White House. The controversy unfolds as Trump plans visits to affected states.

Society, Politics • October 4 2024, 06:41 PM  •  365 views
Unprecedented Hurricane Devastates Asheville Despite Warnings

Unprecedented Hurricane Devastates Asheville Despite Warnings

Hurricane Helene wreaks havoc in Asheville, North Carolina, causing over 200 deaths across six states. Despite numerous warnings, residents were unprepared for the storm's severity in the mountainous region.

Society, Science • October 3 2024, 11:46 PM  •  283 views
California Wildfires Surpass 1 Million Acres as Heatwave Intensifies Challenges

California Wildfires Surpass 1 Million Acres as Heatwave Intensifies Challenges

California's wildfire season reaches a critical milestone as over 1 million acres burn. Firefighters battle the Line Fire amid an autumn heatwave, prompting evacuations and power cuts.

Society, Science • October 1 2024, 10:19 PM  •  59 views
Harris Cuts Campaign Short as Hurricane Helene Devastates Six States

Harris Cuts Campaign Short as Hurricane Helene Devastates Six States

VP Harris returns to Washington for hurricane briefing, while Trump plans visit to affected area. Vice-presidential nominees prepare for debate amid crisis response.

Society, Politics • September 30 2024, 12:50 PM  •  694 views
Hurricane Helene Devastates Southeast U.S., Leaving 60 Dead and Billions in Damage

Hurricane Helene Devastates Southeast U.S., Leaving 60 Dead and Billions in Damage

Hurricane Helene wreaks havoc across southeastern U. S., causing at least 60 deaths and up to $100 billion in damages. Massive cleanup efforts begin as states grapple with flooding, power outages, and destroyed infrastructure.

Society, Politics, Science • September 29 2024, 02:33 PM  •  349 views
Tropical Storm Helene Wreaks Havoc Across Southeastern US

Tropical Storm Helene Wreaks Havoc Across Southeastern US

Tropical Storm Helene, formerly a Category 4 hurricane, caused widespread destruction and flooding in Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas. At least five deaths reported, with over 4 million homes and businesses left without power.

Society, Economics, Politics • September 27 2024, 02:37 PM  •  626 views
Hurricane Helene Disrupts US Air Travel, Thousands of Flights Affected

Hurricane Helene Disrupts US Air Travel, Thousands of Flights Affected

Hurricane Helene approaches Florida, causing massive flight cancellations and delays across the US. Airlines issue travel advisories as coastal residents are urged to evacuate ahead of the storm's landfall.

Society, Business, Science • September 27 2024, 11:19 AM  •  59 views
Storm Surge: The Silent Killer in Hurricane Helene's Path

Storm Surge: The Silent Killer in Hurricane Helene's Path

As Hurricane Helene approaches Florida's Big Bend, experts warn of devastating storm surge potential. This often-overlooked hurricane effect poses a greater threat than wind, with the region's geography amplifying the danger.

Society, Science • September 27 2024, 11:08 AM  •  48 views
Florida Hospitals Brace for Hurricane Helene's Potential Devastation

Florida Hospitals Brace for Hurricane Helene's Potential Devastation

Florida's healthcare facilities prepare for Hurricane Helene's impact. Hospitals evacuate patients, secure resources, and implement emergency measures as the potentially catastrophic storm approaches the state's coast.

Society, Politics • September 27 2024, 10:56 AM  •  17 views
Powerful Hurricane Helene Threatens Florida with Catastrophic Storm Surge

Powerful Hurricane Helene Threatens Florida with Catastrophic Storm Surge

Hurricane Helene approaches Florida's Gulf Coast, prompting evacuations and emergency declarations. Forecasters warn of life-threatening storm surge, damaging winds, and inland flooding across the southeastern US.

Society, Science • September 27 2024, 09:50 AM  •  41 views
Tropical Storm Helene Threatens Florida's Gulf Coast with Hurricane Potential

Tropical Storm Helene Threatens Florida's Gulf Coast with Hurricane Potential

Tropical Storm Helene approaches Florida's Gulf Coast, expected to intensify into a hurricane. Officials prepare for potential storm surge and flooding as the system moves through warm Gulf waters.

Politics, Science • September 24 2024, 10:03 PM  •  201 views
Tropical Storm Helene Threatens Cuba and Florida with Potential Hurricane Impact

Tropical Storm Helene Threatens Cuba and Florida with Potential Hurricane Impact

Tropical Storm Helene approaches Cuba and Florida, expected to intensify into a major hurricane. Authorities issue warnings and prepare for potential flooding, mudslides, and life-threatening storm surge.

Politics, Science • September 24 2024, 08:45 PM  •  1269 views
Major Hurricane Threat Looms Over Gulf Coast as Storm Intensifies

Major Hurricane Threat Looms Over Gulf Coast as Storm Intensifies

A powerful storm system near the Cayman Islands is expected to become a major hurricane, threatening Florida, Mexico, and Cuba. Officials warn of potential storm surge, heavy rainfall, and strong winds.

Politics, Science • September 24 2024, 12:37 PM  •  586 views
Phoenix Shatters Heat Record: 113 Days Above 100°F Sparks Concern

Phoenix Shatters Heat Record: 113 Days Above 100°F Sparks Concern

Phoenix endures 113 consecutive days over 100°F, breaking previous records. Extreme heat leads to increased deaths and wildfires, raising alarm about climate change impacts.

Society, Science • September 23 2024, 08:42 PM  •  1432 views
Severe Storm Wreaks Havoc in Pawnee, Oklahoma: One Fatality Reported

Severe Storm Wreaks Havoc in Pawnee, Oklahoma: One Fatality Reported

A powerful storm hit Pawnee, Oklahoma, causing significant damage and one death. Authorities are assessing the aftermath, with power outages and road closures affecting the small city of 1,900 residents.

Society, Culture • September 20 2024, 01:47 PM  •  585 views
Carolinas Hit by Unexpected Deluge: Climate Change's Role in Extreme Rainfall

Carolinas Hit by Unexpected Deluge: Climate Change's Role in Extreme Rainfall

Unprecedented flooding in Carolina Beach highlights climate change impact. Local authorities grapple with communication challenges and infrastructure damage as the region faces its fifth "flood of a lifetime" in 25 years.

Society, Science • September 17 2024, 11:15 PM  •  370 views
Tropical Storm Threatens Southeast U.S. with Heavy Rain and Flooding

Tropical Storm Threatens Southeast U.S. with Heavy Rain and Flooding

A tropical storm system approaches the Carolinas, bringing strong winds and heavy rainfall. Forecasters warn of potential flooding and rough surf along the Southeast coast.

Society, Science • September 16 2024, 12:21 PM  •  4648 views
Southeast Coast on Alert: Tropical Storm Warning Issued

Southeast Coast on Alert: Tropical Storm Warning Issued

National Hurricane Center warns of potential flooding and high surf along Carolinas' coast. Tropical disturbance off Charleston poses risks to coastal areas from South Carolina to North Carolina's Outer Banks.

Society, Science • September 16 2024, 12:52 AM  •  2330 views
Storm Francine Weakens but Threatens Gulf Coast with Flooding and Outages

Storm Francine Weakens but Threatens Gulf Coast with Flooding and Outages

Storm Francine, now a tropical depression, hits southeastern U. S. states. Despite weakening, it brings heavy rains, gusty winds, and flood risks to Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama.

Society, Politics • September 12 2024, 03:38 PM  •  1313 views
Gulf Coast Braces for Hurricane Francine as Oil Production Halts

Gulf Coast Braces for Hurricane Francine as Oil Production Halts

Hurricane Francine approaches the Gulf Coast, prompting evacuations and shutting down a quarter of oil production. Federal emergency declared as the storm intensifies, threatening New Orleans and surrounding areas.

Society, Business, Politics • September 11 2024, 03:17 PM  •  319 views
Tragic Hot Car Incident Claims 3-Year-Old's Life in Buckeye, Arizona

Tragic Hot Car Incident Claims 3-Year-Old's Life in Buckeye, Arizona

A 3-year-old girl died after being left in a vehicle for over two hours in Buckeye, Arizona. The incident occurred during extreme heat conditions, prompting an ongoing investigation by local authorities.

Society, Culture • September 9 2024, 08:04 PM  •  510 views
Gulf Disturbance Threatens Texas and Louisiana with Heavy Rain, Possible Hurricane

Gulf Disturbance Threatens Texas and Louisiana with Heavy Rain, Possible Hurricane

A tropical system in the Gulf of Mexico is expected to bring significant rainfall to Texas and Louisiana. Forecasters warn of potential rapid development into a tropical storm or hurricane.

Society, Science • September 8 2024, 07:28 PM  •  1396 views
Global Unrest: Protests, Elections, and Climate Challenges Dominate Headlines

Global Unrest: Protests, Elections, and Climate Challenges Dominate Headlines

From Israeli protests to German elections and US labor strikes, global events unfold. Climate records break as a Maryland town offers relocation incentives amidst population decline.

Society, Politics • September 2 2024, 10:34 AM  •  800 views
Massive Power Outages Hit Michigan as Storms Ravage Midwest

Massive Power Outages Hit Michigan as Storms Ravage Midwest

Over 300,000 Michigan customers left without power after severe storms. Utility companies scramble to restore service amid hot conditions, while Chicago's heat wave breaks with record-setting temperatures.

Society, Business • August 28 2024, 05:37 PM  •  1862 views
Tragic Outcome: Woman's Body Recovered After Grand Canyon Flash Flood

Tragic Outcome: Woman's Body Recovered After Grand Canyon Flash Flood

A 33-year-old woman's body was found in Grand Canyon National Park following a flash flood. The incident led to the evacuation of over 100 people and closure of Havasupai tribal lands.

Society, Culture • August 27 2024, 12:15 PM  •  400 views
Rare August Snow Dusts Western U.S. Mountains Amid Fire Risks

Rare August Snow Dusts Western U.S. Mountains Amid Fire Risks

Unusual cold front brings snow to Mount Rainier and Sierra Nevada in August, a rare event not seen since 2003. Concurrent fire dangers and flood warnings highlight complex weather patterns affecting the region.

Society, Science • August 24 2024, 06:20 PM  •  3979 views
Tropical Storm Hone Approaches Hawaii: Precautions and Comparisons

Tropical Storm Hone Approaches Hawaii: Precautions and Comparisons

Tropical Storm Hone nears Hawaii, prompting weather alerts. Officials draw comparisons to 2023's Lahaina fire conditions, emphasizing improved emergency measures and reduced fire risk.

Society, Science • August 23 2024, 08:26 AM  •  616 views
  • Prev
  • 1
  • 2
  • Next