Missoula Weather Forecast Office Generally Provides Quality Service to Its County Warning Area

摘要

The Weather Forecast Office (WFO) uses various technologies and programs to help protect the citizens in its county warning area. Radar, satellite, and automated surface observing systems are used to prepare forecasts and issue warnings for all types of severe weather. NWS commissioned the Advanced Weather Interactive Processing System in Missoula on February 15, 2000. This system, which integrates NWS meteorological and hydrological data with NWS satellite and radar data, is designed to enable forecasters to prepare and issue more accurate and timely forecasts and warnings. The offices fire weather program, considered its most critical activity, provides meteorological support to wildland fire management agencies for the protection of life and property. This support includes providing warnings, forecasts, on-site services during wildfires, and meteorological training for fire management officials. In performing our review, we examined pertinent records and documents and interviewed all of the available staff at the Missoula WFO. We also interviewed the regional director in Salt Lake City, as well as many representatives from the Department and other federal, state, and local government agencies. In addition, we spoke with individuals outside of the federal government who are involved in meteorological activities to obtain their assessment of the services provided by the Missoula WFO, as well as to elicit any suggestions they had for improving the offices provision of critical weather information.