Wiedinmyer Kari Bowen
Science
Feb 15, 2025 8:00 AM

For-Profit Companies Can’t Easily Replace NOAA’s Weather-Forecasting Prowess

Replicating the abilities of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s fleet of weather satellites would take time and a lot of money—and expose private companies to a large amount of risk.
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The forecasts can seem effortless, but behind the scenes, a vast network of satellites, airplanes, radar, computer models, and weather analysts are providing access to the latest data—and warnings when necessary. This data comes from analysts at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, known as NOAA, and its National Weather Service.

Atmospheric scientists Christine Wiedinmyer and Kari Bowen, a former National Weather Service forecaster, explain NOAA’s central role in most US weather forecasts.

When people see a weather report on TV, what went on at NOAA to make that forecast possible?
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Much more:

https://www.wired.com/story/noaas-vast-public-weather-data-powers-the-local-forecasts-on-your-phone-and-tv-a-private-company-alone-couldnt-match-it/