National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Federal research agency in Washington DC, United States
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is a federal research agency based in Washington DC responsible for weather forecasting, ocean research, and management of marine resources. This institution operates research centers across both coasts and inland regions, collecting data on atmosphere, oceans, and marine ecosystems.
The federal government founded this agency in 1970 by merging the Weather Bureau, the Coast and Geodetic Survey, and several other existing services. This reorganization brought together scattered responsibilities for weather, coastlines, and fisheries under one roof.
NOAA scientists contribute to international research networks through data sharing, joint expeditions, and partnerships with maritime communities across multiple nations.
Weather maps, tide tables, and marine warnings are available on the official website, helpful for travelers in coastal regions. Regional offices in port cities offer public tours and exhibitions about ocean research and storm formation.
This agency launches weather balloons daily into the upper atmosphere, measuring temperature and humidity at altitudes above 100,000 feet (30 kilometers). These flights provide key information for forecasting hurricanes and storms over the Atlantic Ocean.
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