National Weather Service United States Department of Commerce

Prospective Students

Want to be a NWS Forecaster? 

 

Welcome to the National Weather Service (NWS), where forecasting excellence meets cutting-edge technology. As a forecaster with us, you'll play a crucial role in utilizing the Advanced Weather Interactive Processing System (AWIPS), a cornerstone of our operations.

 

At the NWS, we pride ourselves on our commitment to accuracy and innovation. With AWIPS, our forecasters have access to a sophisticated suite of tools and resources that empower them to analyze vast amounts of meteorological data and generate precise forecasts and warnings. AWIPS integrates data from satellites, radars, weather stations, and numerical models, providing forecasters with a comprehensive view of current and future weather conditions.

 

As a forecaster, you'll undergo rigorous training in AWIPS usage, mastering its capabilities to enhance your forecasting skills and decision-making abilities. Whether you're tracking the development of a severe thunderstorm or monitoring the progression of a tropical cyclone, AWIPS enables you to visualize complex weather phenomena in real-time and communicate critical information to emergency managers, media partners, and the public.

 

Joining the NWS as a forecaster means becoming part of a dynamic team that leverages state-of-the-art technology to protect lives and property. AWIPS serves as the backbone of our forecasting operations, facilitating collaboration and information sharing among forecasters across the country. With AWIPS, you'll have the tools and support you need to deliver accurate and timely forecasts that help communities prepare for and respond to weather-related hazards.

 

Experience the excitement of working with AWIPS and join us in our mission to build a weather-ready Nation. Explore our career opportunities and discover how you can contribute to our team of dedicated forecasters who rely on AWIPS to provide essential weather information to the public. Together, let's harness the power of technology to create a safer and more resilient future for all.

Typical Day of a NWS Forecaster

 

 
Weather happens every hour of every day and the forecasters at one of the 122 local NWS Weather Forecast Offices (WFO) are the first responders. Starting your workday as a forecaster is just like any other job, except your start time often rotates and is usually either  a day, evening, or night shift.

 

Download AWIPS

If you would like to interact with AWIPS for your personal use, then click on this link to download AWIPS to your computer.
Student Resources

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