The weather was perfect for the NOAA Weather Station Tour. Some of the attendees met at UUFNB to car pool. The rest of the group drove directly to the weather station from Craven County, Carteret County, and Onslow County. The weather station is located on the highest point in Newport, Carteret County.
Once all had arrived, we were invited to meet Rohan Jain in the conference room for a twenty minute engaging and informative presentation. We learned that the weather station is staffed 24/7 - 365 days a year by 2 - 3 forecasters per shift. Employing between 20 - 25 support staff, the weather station never closes!
Rohan defined who NOAA is, the work of the station including specialized forecasts for the aviation, marine and fire weather communities, and last but certainly not least standard weather safety. Local stations are responsible for issuing advisories, warnings, statements, and short term local forecasts.
Once the presentation concluded, we were directed to the operations room where Rohan demonstrated how forecasts are made by viewing the weather data. NWS employees work to support all aspects of keeping the public safe from weather, water and climate hazards. The National Weather Service's mission is to protect lives and property, and enhance the national economy.
After touring operations, we were guided to the weather balloon launch pad. NOAA stations launch weather balloons twice a day, simultaneously throughout the United States, to gather upper-air weather data. Typically, weather balloons fly to altitudes of more than 100,000 feet, well above where commercial aircraft fly.
At the end of the tour we were introduced to the station's radar tower and other equipment used to measure the weather.
The weather station provides tours by appoinment at their discretion. The staff is also available to visit schools.
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