United States National Weather Service

The United States National Weather Service (NWS) is a federal agency responsible for providing weather, water, and climate data, forecasts, and warnings for the United States, its territories, and adjacent waters. Recently, the NWS has been in the news due to its analysis of significant weather events and patterns. For instance, the agency's assessments indicate a rising risk of a historic El Niño event persisting through spring 2027, which has the potential to influence global weather patterns and supercharge extreme weather. Concurrently, the NWS's forecasts and warnings are crucial for state and local responses to immediate threats, such as the severe storms and flash flooding that prompted Missouri to declare a state of emergency. The agency's role is vital in public safety, enabling timely preparedness and response to natural disasters.