NWs

NWS stands for the National Weather Service, a United States government agency responsible for providing weather, hydrological, and climate information to protect life and property and to support the economy. It is a part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) within the U.S. Department of Commerce.

The agency operates a network of local Weather Forecast Offices that issue forecasts and warnings for weather hazards across the United States and its territories. It also oversees several national centers that provide specialized services, including the National Hurricane Center for tropical cyclones, the Storm Prediction Center for severe weather outlooks, the Weather Prediction Center for central guidance on precipitation and storm systems, the Climate Prediction Center for climate forecasts, and the Space Weather Prediction Center for solar and geomagnetic activity. In addition, NWS maintains coastal and aviation center operations to support maritime and air navigation.

Historically, the service traces its origins to the Weather Bureau established in 1870. The organization evolved over the 20th century and, with the creation of NOAA in 1970, adopted the National Weather Service name to reflect its national scope and role in forecasting, warnings, and public safety.

NWS relies on a wide array of data sources, including Doppler radar (NEXRAD), weather satellites, surface and upper-air observation networks, and numerical weather prediction models. Forecasts and warnings are disseminated through Weather.gov, mobile apps, social media, and NOAA Weather Radio, enabling public access and emergency communications. The agency also engages in climate monitoring and service support for state and local authorities, often in coordination with other federal, state, and international partners.