WeatherReady Nation Ambassador

One of NOAA’s missions is to save life and property by providing critical environmental intelligence, including weather forecasts and warnings, to our partners and the general public. NOAA wants everyone, from communities across the country, businesses, and the public at large to be ready, responsive, and resilient to extreme weather, water, and climate events.  Weather-Ready Nation Ambassadors (WRN Ambassadors) are formally recognized by NOAA as organizations committed to collaborating with NOAA, sharing preparedness messaging in outreach to the public, and serving as examples themselves by implementing resilience best practices. Apply to become an Ambassador here. 

Expectations 

Weather-Ready Nation Ambassadors will promote awareness of and preparedness for hazardous weather within your organization and/or community. Periodic emails from NOAA will be sent to WRN Ambassadors to provide information such as links to newly posted outreach material on relevant hazards, as well as updates on experimental or newly operational NOAA products, services, or data. Want more information? Check the Frequently Asked Questions page. 

Who Can Become a WRN Ambassador? 

• Any organization across all levels of government
• Businesses large and small
• TV, Radio, and Print media
• Non-profit and non-governmental organizations
• Churches
• Home Owner Associations
• Academia

How to Apply 

Thank you for your interest in becoming a Weather-Ready Nation Ambassador! If you would like to sign up your organization as a Weather-Ready Nation Ambassador, you can apply on this page (submission process should only take 5-10 minutes):

 Apply Here

NWS Columbia, SC Weather-Ready Nation Ambassadors

WRN Ambassadors of Excellence

2022: South Carolina State Climatology Office

The efforts by the South Carolina State Climatology Office to promote weather safety through the Weather-Ready Nation program are worthy of recognition. The South Carolina State Climatology Office has created brochures on “Boating and Severe Weather”, “Hunting and Severe Weather”, “Heat Related Illness While Boating”, “Hyperthermia”, and “Hypothermia” that are distributed to those engaged in outdoor activities throughout the state, and tend to be more vulnerable to hazardous weather due to greater exposure to hazardous weather. They also promote weather safety at various exhibits, including the annual Palmetto Sportsman’s Class (in which over 40,000 people attend each year) and at the NWS sponsored WeatherFest for children.

2021: Columbia County Emergency Management Agency

In addition to their role in sharing vital weather information as a core partner, the Columbia County Emergency Management Agency is proactive in promoting weather safety and preparedness within Columbia County, GA. They organized a Public Safety and Preparedness Fair, which featured agencies responsible for preparedness and response at the county, state, and federal level, including the National Weather Service, with interactive and fun activities for families. Additionally, they have distributed about 125 NOAA Weather Radios to citizens, host multiple Pack a Bag/Ready Kit classes that highlight recommended items if there is a need to evacuate and/or shelter in place, promote National Safety Campaigns, and are working to implement a stream gauge plan for areas prone to flooding.

2020: Orangeburg County Office of Emergency Services

Orangeburg County Office of Emergency Services, under the leadership of Director Billy Staley, is a valued partner that promotes weather safety and preparedness to the citizens of Orangeburg County. The Office of Emergency Services uses a weather safety trailer that simulates thunderstorms, tornadoes and earthquakes, and will soon install a county AM radio station that will broadcast NOAA Weather Radio. They also provide extensive community outreach on weather related safety and preparedness topics, including the production of a YouTube video on hurricane preparedness.

2019: Richland Library

Richland Library stands out as a WRN Ambassador with their ongoing efforts to educate the public about weather preparedness. They have hosted a hurricane preparedness panel discussion that included NWS, state, media, and non-profit partners, and featured a weather forecasting activity during their annual Learn Freely Fest. Additionally, Richland Library regularly promotes NWS Preparedness Weeks and Campaigns, and provides severe weather information on their website, social media, and digital signage.

2018: South Carolina Emergency Management Division (SCEMD)

South Carolina Emergency Management Division (SCEMD) is a leading example of a partner helping to build a Weather-Ready Nation through efforts aimed at ensuring citizens of the state are prepared for weather disasters. SCEMD recently unveiled the SC Emergency Manager App for mobile devices which allows users to build their own emergency plans, keep track of supplies and stay connected. They also publish and distribute an annual hurricane guide, engage with residents during numerous weather preparedness weeks and participate in many outreach activities with the NWS including Weatherfest and at NOAA Weather Radio programming events.

2017: Richland County, SC Emergency Services Department

Richland County, SC Emergency Services Department developed and implemented a network of professional grade, automated weather monitoring stations known as the Richland County Weather Information Network Data System, or RC Winds. The information provided by RC Winds is used routinely in NWS operations, and has improved the accuracy and timeliness of flash flood and severe thunderstorm warnings. This has greatly enhanced the NWS' ability to protect lives and property and to build a Weather-Ready Nation. 

More information on Ambassadors of Excellence

Resources

• WRN Ambassador Tri-Fold
• WRN Brochure
• National WRN Ambassador Page
• National Weather Service Safety Page