Toward a New National Weather Service

Toward a New National Weather Service
Author: National Research Council (U.S.). Committee on National Weather Service Modernization
Publisher: National Academies Press
Total Pages: 56
Release: 1997
Genre: Science
ISBN:

Reports on the initial operational test and evaluation of the last major technical system required for a decade-long upgrade of the National Weather Service. Considers systems engineering and operational risk management; summarizes AWIPS builds. No index. Annotation copyrighted by Book News, Inc., Portland, OR

From Research to Operations in Weather Satellites and Numerical Weather Prediction

From Research to Operations in Weather Satellites and Numerical Weather Prediction
Author: National Research Council
Publisher: National Academies Press
Total Pages: 97
Release: 2000-09-07
Genre: Science
ISBN: 0309069416

This workshop report examines the capability of the forecast system to efficiently transfer weather and climate research findings into improved operational forecast capabilities. It looks in particular at the Environmental Modeling Center of the National Weather Service and environmental observational satellite programs. Using these examples, the report identifies several shortcomings in the capability to transition from research to operations. Successful transitions from R&D to operational implementation requires (1) understanding of the importance (and risks) of the transition, (2) development and maintenance of appropriate transition plans, (3) adequate resource provision, and (4) continuous feedback (in both directions) between the R&D and operational activities.

The National Weather Service Modernization and Associated Restructuring

The National Weather Service Modernization and Associated Restructuring
Author: National Research Council
Publisher: National Academies Press
Total Pages: 120
Release: 2012-01-25
Genre: Science
ISBN: 0309218012

The Modernization and Associated Restructuring (MAR) of the National Weather Service (NWS) was a large and complex re-engineering of a federal agency. The process lasted a decade and cost an estimated $4.5 billion. The result was greater integration of science into weather service activities and improved outreach and coordination with users of weather information. The MAR created a new, modernized NWS, and, significantly, it created a framework that will allow the NWS to keep up with technological changes in a more evolutionary manner. The MAR was both necessary and generally well executed. However, it required revolutionary, often difficult, changes. The procurement of large, complex technical systems presented challenges in and of itself. The MAR also affected the career paths and personal lives of a large portion of the field office workforce. The MAR created a new, modernized NWS, and, significantly, it created a framework that will allow the NWS to keep up with technological changes in a more evolutionary manner. The National Weather Service Modernization and Associated Restructuring presents the first comprehensive assessment of the execution of the MAR and its impact on the provision of weather services in the United States. This report provides an assessment that addresses the past modernization as well as lessons learned to support future improvements to NWS capabilities.

A Vision for the National Weather Service

A Vision for the National Weather Service
Author: National Research Council
Publisher: National Academies Press
Total Pages: 89
Release: 1999-04-04
Genre: Science
ISBN: 0309063795

In this study, the committee explores ways the National Weather Service (NWS) can take advantage of continuing advances in science and technology to meet the challenges of the future. The predictions are focused on the target year 2025. Because specific predictions about the state of science and technology or the NWS more than 25 years in the future will not be entirely accurate, the goal of this report is to identify and highlight trends that are most likely to influence change. The Panel on the Road Map for the Future National Weather Service developed an optimistic vision for 2025 based on advances in science and technology.

Toward a New Advanced Hydrologic Prediction Service (AHPS)

Toward a New Advanced Hydrologic Prediction Service (AHPS)
Author: National Research Council
Publisher: National Academies Press
Total Pages: 84
Release: 2006-07-28
Genre: Science
ISBN: 0309101441

The National Weather Service (NWS) is responsible for providing flood forecasts and warnings in the United States. The agency established the Advanced Hydrologic Prediction Services (AHPS) program in 1997 to advance technology for hydrologic services, specifically to provide accurate forecasts that support timely warnings for all users of hydrologic predictions. AHPS strives to provide information at the right time to facilitate adequate responses to mitigate damages to life, livelihoods, and property. AHPS is slated to be fully implemented nationwide in 2013. With seven years still remaining in its development and implementation timeline, a review of the program now is critical to providing NWS with information it needs to maximize the effectiveness of the AHPS program. This report assesses AHPS in respect to hydrologic science and technology research, river routing and mechanics, "systems" engineering aspects, and implementation. Overall, this report finds AHPS to be an ambitious program that promises to provide services and products that are timely and necessary. The report calls for AHPS to develop a detailed and comprehensive, multi-year implementation plan and for the program's goals and budget to be brought into closer alignment.

NOAA's FY 2002 Budget

NOAA's FY 2002 Budget
Author: United States. Congress. House. Committee on Science. Subcommittee on Environment, Technology, and Standards
Publisher:
Total Pages: 532
Release: 2001
Genre: Science
ISBN: