NOAA News Releases

April was cool, wet and had more snow on the ground for the contiguous U.S.; April temperatures were coolest since 1997

Wed, 15 May 2013 11:05:00 -0500

According to NOAA scientists, the average temperature for the contiguous United States during April was 49.7°F, 1.4°F below the 20th-century average. It was the 23rd coolest April on record. Below-average temperatures dominated the central United States.

Carbon dioxide at NOAA’s Mauna Loa Observatory reaches new milestone: Tops 400 ppm

Fri, 19 May 2013 1:30:00 -0500

On May 9, the daily mean concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere of Mauna Loa, Hawaii, surpassed 400 parts per million for the first time since measurements began in 1958. It marks an important milestone because Mauna Loa, as the oldest continuous carbon dioxide (CO₂) measurement station in the world, is the primary global benchmark site for monitoring the increase of this potent heat-trapping gas.

Global March temperatures are 10th highest on record

Thu, 18 Mar 2013 11:05:00 -0500

According to NOAA scientists, the globally-averaged temperature for March 2013 tied with 2006 as the 10th warmest March since record keeping began in 1880. It also marked the 37th consecutive March and 337th consecutive month with a global temperature above the 20th century average.

March was cool and dry for the contiguous United States

Mon, 15 Mar 2013 11:05:00 -0500

According to NOAA scientists, the average temperature for the contiguous United States during March 2013 was 40.8°F, 0.9°F below the 20th century average. It was the 43rd coolest March on record. Colder temperatures dominated east of the Rockies, and warm conditions prevailed in the West.

Global February temperatures were ninth highest on record

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 11:05:00 -0500

According to NOAA scientists, the globally averaged temperature for February 2013 tied with 2003 as the ninth warmest February since record keeping began in 1880. It also marked the 28th consecutive February and 336th consecutive month with a global temperature above the 20th-century average.

Contiguous United States was warmer and wetter than average for winter season; February temperatures, precipitation were near-normal

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 03:05:00 -0500

According to NOAA's National Climatic Data Center, the average temperature for the contiguous United States during the winter season (December 2012–February 2013) was 34.3°F, 1.9°F above the 20th century average. This winter season was the 20th warmest on record.

January global temperatures ninth highest on record

Thu, 21 Feb 2013 11:05:00 -0500

According to NOAA scientists, the globally-averaged temperature for January 2013 tied with 1995 as the ninth warmest January since record keeping began in 1880. It also marked the 37th consecutive January and 335th consecutive month with a global temperature above the 20th century average.

Contiguous United States warmer and wetter than average for January

Thu, 14 Feb 2013 13:10:00 -0500

According to NOAA scientists, the average temperature for the contiguous U.S. during January was 32.0°F, 1.6°F above the 20th century average, tying with 1958 as the 39th warmest January on record. Drought conditions remained entrenched across the Southeast, Great Plains, and the mountainous West.

2012 global temperatures are 10th highest on record

Tue, 15 Feb 2013 13:16:00 -0500

According to NOAA scientists, the globally-averaged annual combined land and ocean surface temperature in 2012 was 1.03°F (0.57°C) above the 20th-century average of 57.0°F (13.9°C). The annual report also found that all 12 years of the 21st century (2001-2012) rank among the 14 warmest in the 133-year period of record.

2012 was warmest and second most extreme year on record for the contiguous U.S.

Tue, 08 Jan 2013 13:08:00 -0500

2012 was a historic year for extreme weather that included drought, wildfires, hurricanes and storms; however, tornado activity was below average, according to an analysis released today by NOAA's National Climatic Data Center. The average temperature for 2012 was 55.3°F, 3.2°F above the 20th century average, and 1.0°F above 1998, the previous warmest year.

Major winter storm with blizzard conditions to impact U.S. Northeast Friday night into Saturday

Tue, 15 Jan 2013 13:16:00 -0500

A major winter storm is forecast to impact the Northeast Friday night into early Saturday, as a developing nor'easter moves up the Atlantic coast. Total snowfall of 1-2 feet are possible, with locally higher amounts. Gusty winds will create blizzard conditions, especially along the coast, making travel extremely hazardous, if not impossible. For the latest forecast, watches and warnings, visit www.weather.gov.

November global temperatures fifth highest on record

Mon, 17 Dec 2012 13:16:00 -0500

According to NOAA scientists, the globally-averaged temperature for November 2012 marked the fifth warmest November since record keeping began in 1880. It also marked the 36th consecutive November and 333rd consecutive month with a global temperature above the 20th century average.

Contiguous U.S. warmer and drier than average for November, autumn; 2012 virtually certain to be warmest year on record

Thurs, 6 Dec 2012 11:36:00 -0500

According to NOAA scientists, the average temperature for the contiguous United States during November was 44.1°F (2.1°F above the 20th century average), tying 2004 as the 20th warmest November on record. The period of January-November was the warmest first 11 months of any year on record for the contiguous United States.

Government of Japan gifts NOAA $5 million to address tsunami marine debris

Fri, 30 Nov 2012 09:05:00 -0500

The funds, given through NOAA's Marine Debris Program, will be used to support response efforts, such as removal of tsunami marine debris, disposal fees, cleanup supplies, detection and monitoring. NOAA anticipates distributing funds to affected regions as the they are received from Japan and will work to determine immediate needs and future applications.

Acting Secretary of Commerce declares disaster for NJ & NY fishery

Fri, 16 Nov 2012 14:00:00 -0400

Responding to the devastation from Sandy, the Commerce Department today announced a fishery failure for New Jersey and New York. Although the full extent of the damage is not yet known, this action opens the door for Commerce to work with Congress, the states, and affected communities to minimize the negative economic and social impacts to commercial and recreational fisheries.

Global temperatures were fifth highest on record for October

Thu, 15 Nov 2012 12:18:38 -0400

According to NOAA scientists, the globally-averaged temperature for October 2012 was the fifth warmest October since recordkeeping began in 1880. It marked the 36th consecutive October and 332nd consecutive month with a global temperature above the 20th century average. See the summary and full report for more. (full report, summary)

U.S. temperature and precipitation in October were near average; Sandy breaks records in East as severe drought continues in West, Great Plains

Thu, 8 Nov 2012 12:18:38 -0400

According to NOAA NCDC scientists, the average temperature for the contiguous U.S. during October was 53.9°F, 0.3°F below the long-term average. This ends a 16-month streak of above-average temperatures for the Lower 48 that began in June 2011. See the summary and full report for more. (full report, summary)

StormCentral 2012: Your one-stop source for Sandy news and information

Fri, 26 Oct 2012 12:50:00 -0400

Looking for information about NOAA's response in Sandy's aftermath? Get fact sheets, links to resources and more on our comprehensive webpage http://www.noaa.gov/sandy

Global temperature ties with 2005 as record highest for September

Mon, 15 Oct 2012 10:56:07 -0400

According to NOAA scientists, the globally-averaged temperature for September 2012 tied with 2005 as the warmest September since recordkeeping began in 1880. It also marked the 36th consecutive September and 331st consecutive month with a global temperature above the 20th century average.

Lower 48 experiences warmer than average September

Tue, 9 Oct 2012 10:44:37 -0400

A new NOAA analysis finds that the average temperature for the contiguous U.S. during September was 67°F, 1.4°F above the long-term average. The January-September period was the warmest first nine months of any year on record for the contiguous United States.

August global temperatures are fourth highest on record; Arctic sea ice extent shrinks to record low

Mon, 17 Sep 2012 10:18:38 -0400

According to NOAA's NCDC, the combined average temperature over global land and ocean surfaces for August was the fourth highest on record for August at 61.22°F (16.22°C), or 1.12°F (0.62°C), above the 20th century average. On August 26, Arctic sea ice dipped below the record smallest daily extent, previously set on Sept. 18, 2007. (full report, summary)

Disaster declaration issued for several U.S. fisheries

Thu, 13 Sep 2012 12:30:32 -0400

Acting U.S. Secretary of Commerce Rebecca Blank today declared a commercial fishery failure for several locations in the United States. The disaster declarations makes it possible for Congress to appropriate money toward alleviating the financial hardship of fishermen affected by the fishery failures. If money is appropriated, NOAA will work closely with Congress and the governors representing the affected states to develop plans to assist coastal communities.

Contiguous United States experiences third hottest summer on record

Mon, 10 Sep 2012 10:36:45 -0400

NOAA scientists also report that the average temperature for the contiguous U.S. during August was 74.4°F, 1.6°F above the long-term average, marking the 16^th warmest August on record. The monthly analysis is produced by NOAA's National Climatic Data Center.

July global temperatures fourth highest on record; Arctic sea ice is second lowest July extent on record

Wed, 15 Aug 2012 11:00:00 -0400

According to NOAA NCDC scientists, the globally-averaged temperature for July 2012 marked the fourth warmest July since record keeping began in 1880. It also marked the 36th consecutive July and 329th consecutive month with a global temperature above the 20th century average.

Updated Atlantic hurricane outlook calls for near- or above-normal season

Thu, 9 Aug 2012 10:56:53 -0400

This year’s Atlantic hurricane season got off to a busy start, with 6 named storms to date, and may have a busy second half, according to the updated hurricane season outlook issued today by NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, a division of the National Weather Service.

July 2012 marked the hottest month on record for the contiguous United States

Wed, 8 Aug 2012 10:26:07 -0400

Drought expands to cover nearly 63 percent of the Lower 48; wildfires consume two million acres.

Monitoring debris from the Japan tsunami

Thu, 9 Aug 2012 11:54:37 -0400

NOAA is leading efforts with federal, state, and local partners to collect data, assess the debris, and reduce possible impacts to our natural resources and coastal communities.

June global temperatures fourth highest on record

Mon, 16 Jul 2012 11:15:08 -0400

The globally-averaged temperature for June 2012 marked the fourth warmest June since record keeping began in 1880. It also marks the 36th consecutive June and 328th consecutive month with a global temperature above the 20th century average.

U.S. experiences warm and dry June; drought expands to 56 percent of the Lower 48

Mon, 9 Jul 2012 14:41:07 -0400

The average temperature for the contiguous U.S. during June was 71.2°F, 2.0°F above the 20th century average, ranking 14th warmest June on record. Scorching temperatures during the second half of the month broke or tied over 170 all-time high temperature records in cities across America. June temperatures also contributed to a record-warm first half of the year and the warmest 12-month period the nation has experienced since recordkeeping began in 1895.

NOAA team on IWC working to protect whales

Tue, 3 Jul 2012 11:18:35 -0400

NOAA is the lead agency for coordinating the efforts of the United States within the IWC. We work closely with the Departments of State and Interior, the Marine Mammal Commission, and interested nongovernmental organizations to promote U.S. positions at the IWC, including the rights and needs of aboriginal subsistence whalers, and cetacean conservation activities.

May global temperatures second warmest on record

Thu, 14 Jun 2012 11:00:00 -0400

The globally-averaged temperature for May 2012 marked the second warmest May since record keeping began in 1880.

NOAA predicts a near-normal 2012 Atlantic hurricane season

Tue, 15 May 2012 10:56:32 -0400

Conditions in the atmosphere and the ocean favor a near-normal hurricane season in the Atlantic Basin this season, NOAA announced today from Miami at its Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory, home to the Hurricane Research Division.

Annual NOAA report shows a record number of rebuilt fisheries

Mon, 14 May 2012 12:37:59 -0400

A record six fish populations were declared rebuilt to healthy levels in 2011, bringing the number of rebuilt U.S. marine fish populations in the last 11 years to 27, according to a report to Congress out today from NOAA’s Fisheries Service.

NOAA Administrator Dr. Jane Lubchenco names Rear Admiral David Titley new Deputy Under Secretary for Operations

Tue, 15 May 2012 10:56:32 -0400

U.S. April temperatures third warmest on record

Tue, 8 May 2012 11:03:28 -0400

Warmer and drier than average temperatures continued for much of the nation in April. These temperatures, when combined with the first quarter and previous 11 months, calculate to the warmest year-to-date and 12-month periods on record for the contiguous United States.

Global temperatures in March make coolest March since 1999 even with record-breaking warmth for U.S.

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 11:01:09 -0400

According to NOAA scientists, the average global temperature for March 2012 makes it the coolest March since 1999, yet the 16th warmest since record keeping began in 1880.

U.S. records warmest March; more than 15,000 warm temperature records broken

Mon, 9 Apr 2012 11:00:03 -0400

According to NOAA scienticts, record and near-record breaking temperatures dominated the eastern two-thirds of the nation and contributed to the warmest March on record for the contiguous United States, a record that dates back to 1895.

New management measures for Gulf of Maine cod for 2012

Mon, 2 Apr 2012 10:39:34 -0400

NOAA has set new 2012 catch limits for Gulf of Maine cod of 6,700 metric tons, reflecting collaborative work with the fishing industry to prevent a much larger cut.

Global temperatures 22nd warmest on record for February

Fri, 16 Mar 2012 10:36:22 -0400

Despite coolest February on record since 2008, February 2012 marks the 324th consecutive month with a global temperature above the 20th century average, according to NOAA's National Climatic Data Center.

Risk of major flooding in spring is low for the first time in four years

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 12:24:28 -0400

No area of the country faces a high risk of major to record spring flooding, largely due to the limited winter snowfall, according to NOAA's annual Spring Outlook, which forecasts the potential for flooding from April to June.

NOAA's FY 2013 budget request

Fri, 2 Mar 2012 15:30:36 -0500

NOAA has issued its Blue Book containing details on the fiscal year 2013 budget request. This year’s budget request of approximately $5.1 billion aims to provide immediate life-saving and job-supporting services needed to prepare and protect American communities and infrastructure and invest in science and research that will enhance America’s competitiveness.

Winter season fourth warmest on record for U.S.

Wed, 7 Mar 2012 11:04:54 -0500

According to NOAA scientists, warmer-than-average temperatures dominated the northern and eastern regions of the U.S. this winter. Additionally, national snow cover extent was below average.

January 2012 the 19th warmest for the globe

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 14:07:12 -0500

According to NOAA scientists, the globe experienced its 19th warmest January. Additionally, Arctic sea ice measured at fourth smallest.

NOAA doubles Gulf of Maine winter flounder catch limits

Wed, 8 Feb 2012 10:50:29 -0500

NOAA announced today that it is doubling the amount of Gulf of Maine winter flounder commercial fishermen can catch from almost 510,000 pounds to more than 1.1 million pounds for the current fishing season, which ends April 30.

January 2012 the fourth warmest for the contiguous U.S.

Tue, 7 Feb 2012 10:58:50 -0500

During January, warmer-than-average conditions enveloped most of the contiguous United States, with widespread below-average precipitation. The overall weather pattern for the month was reflected in the lack of snow for much of the Northern Plains, Midwest, and Northeast. This scenario was in stark contrast to Alaska where several towns had their coldest January on record.

Satellites aid in the rescue of 207 people in 2011

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 15:59:58 -0500

In 2011, NOAA satellites were critical in the rescues of 207 people from life-threatening situations throughout the United States and its surrounding waters.

National Strategy proposed to respond to climate change’s impacts on fish, wildlife, plants

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 16:46:58 -0500

In partnership with state, tribal, and federal agency partners, the Obama Administration today released the first draft national strategy to help decision makers and resource managers prepare for and help reduce the impacts of climate change on species, ecosystems, and the people and economies that depend on them.

2011 a year of climate extremes in the United States

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 13:00:44 -0500

NOAA announces two additional severe weather events reached $1 billion damage threshold, raising 2011’s billion dollar disaster count from 12 to 14 events

Deepwater Horizon Natural Resource trustees call for public input on early restoration of the Gulf

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 12:21:10 -0500

On December 14, the Deepwater Horizon Natural Resource Damage Assessment (NRDA) trustees released the Deepwater Horizon Draft Phase I Early Restoration Plan and Environmental Assessment for formal public comment.The plan proposes the first round of projects for early restoration of Gulf natural resources affected by the 2010 oil spill disaster.

Statement from Russell F. Smith III, deputy assistant secretary for international fisheries

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 16:09:50 -0500

The International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) made significant progress on key U.S. priorities to improve science, management of fish stocks and their ecosystems, monitoring of fishing activities, and compliance with commission decisions at the recently completed annual meeting in Turkey.

NOAA seeks input on enforcement priorities

Tue, 8 Nov 2011 10:43:14 -0500

On Nov. 8, NOAA released a draft of its enforcement priorities and invited the public to submit comments through January 9. These enforcement priorities are the latest step NOAA is taking to improve its enforcement program.

NOAA Administrator Dr. Jane Lubchenco responds to Senator Kerry

Thu, 27 Oct 2011 16:41:42 -0400

Letter outlines concrete ways NOAA will work with fishermen and others to improve the sector management system for the groundfish fishery and seek a healthy and diverse fishing fleet throughout New England.

Statement from NOAA Administrator Dr. Jane Lubchenco on release of socioeconomic data on the New England groundfish industry

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 12:25:09 -0400

On Oct. 25, NOAA Fisheries issued the latest in a series of broad-scale economic reports, examining the economic health of the Northeast groundfish fishery as a whole. Read about Dr. Lubchenco's response to this release here.

Life-threatening storm bears down on Alaska

Tue, 8 Nov 2011 16:10:14 -0500

Damaging winds, coastal flooding, blizzard conditions are among the expected impacts of a Bering Sea storm that will slam into Alaska. Get the latest warnings from National Weather Service's interactive map at http://www.arh.noaa.gov, and please take precautions to stay safe.

NOAA Administrator statement on New England fishery observer costs and reforms

Wed, 19 Oct 2011 17:17:15 -0400

On Oct. 19, NOAA Administrator Dr. Jane Lubchenco announced two actions to help improve the management of New England groundfish and ease the economic burden of the fishery's observer program.

United States regrets Japan's renewed whaling in the Southern Ocean

Thu, 13 Oct 2011 15:45:45 -0400

The United States deeply regrets that Japan has decided to continue its controversial whaling in the Southern Ocean. The United States also expresses its deep concern about the possibility of violence in connection with such whaling.

Global temperatures in September were eighth warmest on record

Thu, 13 Oct 2011 13:35:44 -0400

The Earth experienced its eighth warmest September since record keeping began in 1880. The annual minimum Arctic sea ice extent was reached on September 9 and ranked as the second smallest extent since satellite records began in 1979.

NOAA releases first national bycatch report - Establishes methodology, baseline for future studies

Thu, 22 Sep 2011 13:47:02 -0400

A new NOAA report of data collected in 2005 will help the agency's scientists better monitor progress in reducing bycatch - the non-target fish, marine mammals, sea turtles, and seabirds caught incidentally in fishing.

Joplin tornado offers important lessons for disaster preparedness

Tue, 20 Sep 2011 14:03:25 -0400

NOAA's National Weather Service released its final assessment report on the May 22 tornado that struck Joplin, Mo. The report identifies best practices and makes recommendations to help save more lives during future violent tornadoes.

Agencies directed to take actions to encourage Iceland to change whaling policy

Thu, 15 Sep 2011 15:05:35 -0400

On Sept. 15, in a report to Congress, the President concurred with the Secretary of Commerce's recommendations and directed federal agencies to take actions to encourage Iceland to change its whaling policy.

U.S. domestic seafood landings and values increase in 2010

Wed, 7 Sep 2011 12:33:59 -0400

U.S. commercial fishermen landed 8.2 billion pounds of seafood in 2010, valued at $4.5 billion, an increase of 200 million pounds and more than $600 million in value over 2009, according to a new report released by NOAA on Sept. 7.

U.S., European Union to strengthen cooperation to combat illegal fishing

Wed, 7 Sep 2011 10:15:38 -0400

NOAA Administrator Dr. Jane Lubchenco and Maria Damanaki, European Union commissioner for maritime affairs and fisheries, signed a historic statement on Sept. 7 pledging bilateral cooperation to combat illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, known as IUU fishing.

National Weather Service taking action to build a 'Weather-ready' nation

Wed, 17 Aug 2011 11:00:00 -0400

NOAA is launching a comprehensive initiative to build a “Weather-ready” nation to make America safer by saving more lives and protecting livelihoods as communities across the country become increasingly vulnerable to severe weather events, such as tornado outbreaks, intense heat waves, flooding, active hurricane seasons, and solar storms that threaten electrical and communication systems.

Tracking the remnants of Lee

Fri, 2 Sep 2011 14:36:59 -0400

NOAA's National Weather Service continues to track the remnants of Lee. This system will bring significant rainfall to portions of the eastern U.S. with flooding likely.

Looking at Irene

Tue, 30 Aug 2011 20:22:18 -0400

Irene may be gone, but she leaves behind lives lost, widespread power outages, intense flooding, and property damage across more than 12 states. The storm ranks as the 10th $1 billion disaster of 2011. NOAA’s early and accurate prediction of Irene’s storm path saved lives and livelihoods, as did the unprecedented use of social media to alert emergency managers and the public. Critical to NOAA’s forecasting and warnings capability were NOAA’s environmental satellites, which require sustained investment.

Atlantic hurricane season update calls for increase in named storms

Thu, 4 Aug 2011 11:07:42 -0400

NOAA issued its updated 2011 Atlantic hurricane season outlook raising the number of expected named storms from its pre-season outlook issued in May.

'Federal Disaster Assistance Budgeting: Are We Weather-ready' - Testimony by Dr. Kathryn Sullivan

Fri, 29 Jul 2011 12:33:00 -0400

Testimony of NOAA's Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Environmental Observation and Prediction, Dr. Kathryn Sullivan, before the Senate Committee on Appropriations, Subcommittee on Financial Services and General Government (Chair, Senator Richard Durbin, D-IL) during a hearing titled 'Federal Disaster Assistance: Are We Weather-Ready?'

NOAA issues draft scientific integrity policy for comment

Fri, 20 May 2011 13:49:49 -0400

NOAA has been developing a scientific integrity policy that continues the agency's culture of transparency, integrity and ethical behavior. Comments must be received by Aug. 20.

Irene Crossing New England

Mon, 22 Aug 2011 09:57:30 -0400

As Irene crosses the Northeast Sunday and early Monday, winds will steadily decrease but heavy rain could still cause flooding. Stay informed with the latest information from NOAA's National Weather Service. Follow updates on Twitter @NHC_Atlantic, and visit our Hurricane Central webpage for a list of resources.

Heat wave leads to fourth warmest July on record for the U.S.

Mon, 8 Aug 2011 15:46:22 -0400

Persistent, scorching heat in the central and eastern regions of the United States shattered long-standing daily and monthly temperature records last month, making it the fourth warmest July on record nationally, according to scientists at NOAA's National Climatic Data Center.

Heat wave records shattered

Mon, 1 Aug 2011 14:01:34 -0400

The heat wave baking the Central U.S. broke two more records: It was the warmest July ever recorded in Oklahoma City and Wichita Falls, Texas. The Oklahoma City average monthly temperature was 89.2 degrees F, while Wichita Falls averaged 92.9 degrees. Please take precautions to keep cool and well-hydrated.

'Federal Disaster Assistance Budgeting: Are We Weather-ready' - Testimony by Dr. Kathryn Sullivan

Fri, 29 Jul 2011 12:33:00 -0400

Secretary Locke certifies that Iceland's whaling undermines the International Whaling Commission

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 10:34:38 -0400

U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke certified to President Obama that Iceland's commercial whaling and international trade in fin whale products is diminishing the effectiveness of the International Whaling Commission.

Annual stock report shows steady progress toward rebuilding our nation's fisheries

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 12:31:30 -0400

Three fisheries stocks from the Northeast (Georges Bank haddock, Atlantic pollock and spiny dogfish) have now been rebuilt to healthy levels, bringing to 21 the number that have been rebuilt nationwide since 2000, according to a report to Congress from NOAA's Fisheries Service issued on July 14.

Tracking Tropical Storm Don

Thu, 28 Jul 2011 11:40:00 -0400

NOAA's National Hurricane Center is tracking the season's fourth named storm, which is on a path toward Texas.

Western Governors, NOAA agree to work together to improve climate services

Thu, 30 Jun 2011 15:05:03 -0400

When it comes to climate, Western governors know that access to timely and accurate information saves lives and property and helps local businesses.

Major flooding on the Mississippi River predicted to cause largest Gulf of Mexico dead zone ever recorded

Tue, 14 Jun 2011 10:36:30 -0400

The Gulf of Mexico's hypoxic zone is predicted to be the largest ever recorded due to extreme flooding of the Mississippi River this spring, according to an annual forecast by a team of NOAA-supported scientists from the Louisiana Universities Marine Consortium, Louisiana State University and the University of Michigan.

High heat grips eastern half of U.S.

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 11:59:00 -0400

Dangerous heat and humidity will remain anchored in the central U.S. this week as it begins spreading into the East. Excessive heat warnings and heat advisories have been issued by NOAA's National Weather Service. Take precautions to stay cool and hydrated.

Tracking Tropical Storm Emily

Tue, 2 Aug 2011 10:32:13 -0400

Emily is expected to resume a west-northwest track this morning with a turn toward the northwest during the next day or so. On this track the center of Emily will move across the southwestern peninsula of Haiti later today and move over extreme eastern Cuba tonight or early Friday. Follow NHC's Emily updates on Twitter.

Adios, La Nina

Thu, 9 Jun 2011 09:47:30 -0400

According to NOAA's Climate Prediction Center, La Nina is gone. This period of colder-than-average sea surface temperatures in the eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean has passed. The Pacific Ocean sea surface temperature will likely remain near normal through the summer. Learn more.

Creating a NOAA Climate Service

Wed, 22 Jun 2011 10:21:48 -0400

NOAA's climate science is used by businesses and governments to make smart investments in the U.S. economy and infrastructure. In her testimony to the U.S. House of Representatives, Dr. Jane Lubchenco discussed the proposed climate service within NOAA.

Commerce Secretary orders fishery enforcement penalties returned to 11 fishermen and businesses

Tue, 17 May 2011 13:45:00 -0400

U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke announced today that $649,527 in fisheries enforcement penalties will be returned to 11 individuals or businesses after an independent review of their cases concluded the NOAA enforcement program had in some instances "overstepped the bounds of propriety and fairness."

Interior and NOAA welcome National Academy of Sciences report on the California Bay Delta Conservation Plan

Thu, 5 May 2011 13:49:21 -0400

Deputy Secretary of the Interior David J. Hayes and NOAA Administrator Dr. Jane Lubchenco issued statements regarding the National Academy of Sciences report on the use of science and adaptive management in California's Bay Delta Conservation Plan.

June 1 is official start of hurricane season: Outlook is above-normal

Thu, 19 May 2011 11:29:42 -0400

The Atlantic basin is expected to see an above-normal hurricane season this year, according to the seasonal outlook issued by NOAA's Climate Prediction Center, a division of the National Weather Service.

Flooding continues over parts of West and Northern Plains

Mon, 6 Jun 2011 16:06:47 -0400

Many rivers across the western United States are expected to reach flood stage early this week due to warm temperatures over the weekend and increasing snow melt. Get updates at http://www.weather.gov

April 2011 tornado information site

Fri, 29 Apr 2011 04:31:23 -0400

Tornadoes are among nature's most violent storms — capable of producing wind speeds greater than 250 mph and paths in excess of a mile wide and 50 miles long. The United States encountered unprecedented tornado activity recently with an estimated 600 tornadoes in April alone. This site will provide information about these deadly storms.

National Hurricane Center now on Twitter

Thu, 2 Jun 2011 11:58:07 -0400

Just in time for hurricane season, the NHC will "tweet" tropical weather updates via two new Twitter feeds for the Atlantic and Eastern North Pacific basin regions. Learn more at www.nhc.noaa.gov/twitter.shtml.

Stay on top of dangerous weather conditions

Tue, 31 May 2011 12:09:21 -0400

Fire weather, flooding, severe weather and heat threaten parts of the U.S. today. Visit weather.gov for more information.

NRDA Trustees announce $1 billion agreement to fund early Gulf Coast restoration projects

Thu, 21 Apr 2011 12:15:00 -0400

This early restoration agreement, the largest of its kind ever reached, represents a first step toward fulfilling BP's obligation to fund the complete restoration of injured public resources, including the loss of use of those resources by the people living, working and visiting the area.

All federal waters of the Gulf once closed to fishing due to spill now open

Tue, 19 Apr 2011 12:05:00 -0400

On April 19, NOAA reopened to commercial and recreational fishing 1,041 square miles of Gulf waters immediately surrounding the Deepwater Horizon wellhead, just east of Louisiana.

New England fishing season to open with higher catch limits and more access for small-vessel fishermen

Mon, 18 Apr 2011 15:22:55 -0400

When the new fishing year kicks off on May 1, groundfish fishermen will have more opportunity to fish in Northeast waters, small-vessel owners will get a boost through permit banks, and stocks will continue on the path to rebuilding.

'Before and after' aerial photographs of flooded Red River Valley

Wed, 20 Apr 2011 11:55:00 -0400

Aerial photography taken by NOAA the week of April 11 shows massive flooding of the Red River Valley along the Minnesota-North Dakota border compared with images taken more than a year ago by Google Earth.

U.S. Commerce Department to deploy economic assessment teams to six Northeast fishing ports

Wed, 30 Mar 2011 16:00:00 -0400

Commerce Secretary announces additional reforms to overhaul NOAA's law enforcement system

Wed, 16 Mar 2011 14:42:28 -0400

U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke announced on March 16 that he would allow fishermen and businesses until May 6, 2011, to submit complaints about potentially excessive enforcement penalties to the Special Master for review, as well as request stays of their penalties as part of the complaint process.

Spring flooding underway, expected to worsen through April

Thu, 17 Mar 2011 10:59:40 -0400

With spring flooding already underway over portions of the U.S., NOAA forecasters are warning the worst is yet to come. Almost half the country has an above-average risk of flooding over the next few weeks, according to the annual spring outlook released Thursday by NOAA's National Weather Service.

"CSI" team investigates April tornadoes: Climate scientists looking for clues

Tue, 10 May 2011 13:44:39 -0400

The tornado outbreak across the southern United States in late April 2011 was deadly, devastating, and record breaking. These days, when the weather breaks records, it's natural to wonder if global warming is to blame. So it's not surprising that in recent weeks, climate scientists have been fielding lots of questions about the possible connection between global warming and tornados.

Inspector General's review of stolen emails confirms no evidence of wrongdoing by NOAA climate scientists

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 12:59:24 -0500

Report is the latest independent analysis to clear climate scientists of allegations of mishandling of climate information.

Review of Fisheries Enforcement Complaints Underway

Thu, 17 Feb 2011 17:30:05 -0500

The Special Master has given an interim report of his progress to date reviewing NOAA fisheries enforcement complaints identified by the Commerce Inspector General and sent by the Secretary of Commerce for his review.

Another Spring of Major Flooding Likely in North Central U.S.

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 11:58:28 -0500

A large swath of the country is at risk of moderate to major flooding this spring, from northeastern Montana through western Wisconsin following the Mississippi River south to St. Louis, National Weather Service flood experts are forecasting.

Deadly storms, dangerous flooding move east

Tue, 26 Apr 2011 04:52:22 -0400

NOAA's National Weather Service meteorologists expect significant and potentially deadly severe weather including long-lived strong tornadoes, very large hail, and torrential rain to spread east from the central U.S. through Wednesday night. Stay alert, and visit www.weather.gov for the latest information.

Widespread Tsunami Warning in Effect Throughout the Pacific

Fri, 11 Mar 2011 07:03:29 -0500

As a result of an earthquake near the coast of Honshu, Japan, a widespread tsunami warning is in effect throughout the Pacific. For warning information please visit the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center and West Coast and Alaska Tsunami Warning Center.

NOAA Announces FY 2012 Budget

Mon, 14 Feb 2011 15:25:45 -0500

On Feb. 14, President Obama issued the FY 2012 budget for NOAA, requesting $5.5 billion for the nation’s oceanic and atmospheric agency. The proposed budget includes key investments to strengthen NOAA’s most critical programs and initiatives while addressing the administration’s goals.

U.S. 'Turning a Corner' in Ending Overfishing

Tue, 8 Mar 2011 13:03:29 -0500

At a hearing Tuesday in front of the Senate Commerce Committee on the Magnuson-Stevens Act, Assistant NOAA Administrator for Fisheries Eric Schwaab said that the U.S. is making good progress toward meeting the mandate to end domestic overfishing.

Commerce, NOAA Release Draft National Aquaculture Policies, Invite Public Comment

Wed, 9 Feb 2011 11:50:21 -0500

On Wednesday, Feb. 9, NOAA released complementary draft national aquaculture policies that support sustainable marine aquaculture to increase the U.S. supply of healthy seafood, create jobs in coastal and other communities, spur innovation in technology, and help restore depleted species and marine habitats.

Potential tornado threat Thursday and Friday

Thu, 14 Apr 2011 16:43:31 -0400

Strong tornadoes and large hail may develop in parts of Kansas, Oklahoma and Texas later today. Powerful winds from this storm system will contribute to dangerous fire weather conditions across eastern New Mexico, west Texas and western Oklahoma this afternoon. Widespread severe weather is likely to move east into the Middle and Lower Mississippi River Valley on Friday.

Negotiations with Canada Set Stage for Significant Increase in U.S. Yellowtail Flounder Quota on Georges Bank

Wed, 9 Feb 2011 14:35:42 -0500

Legislation recently signed by President Obama has paved the way for NOAA to move ahead to increase the Georges Bank yellowtail flounder quota for U.S. commercial fishermen in 2011.

Entanglements and Ship Strikes Biggest Threats to Endangered Right Whales

Tue, 1 Feb 2011 17:54:28 -0500

A young critically endangered female right whale died recently as a result of becoming entangled in hundreds of feet of rope. Despite efforts by teams of disentanglement experts, the whale was unable to overcome the impacts of the ropes, which at one point were embedded in her body.

NOAA Reopens More Than 4,000 Square Miles of Gulf Waters to Royal Red Shrimping

Tue, 1 Feb 2011 17:54:28 -0500

NOAA will reopen 4,213 square miles of Gulf of Mexico federal waters off Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama to royal red shrimping on Feb. 2, 2011. The area was closed to this type of deep water fishing on Nov. 24 as a precautionary measure after a commercial shrimper discovered tar balls in his net.

FEMA, NOAA and Partners Encourage U.S. Residents to Prepare for Springtime Flooding

Mon, 14 Mar 2011 12:43:30 -0400

With many communities throughout the nation facing threats of spring flooding, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) are once again joining forces to commemorate Flood Safety Awareness Week March 14 - 18.

New Assistant Administrator for NOAA Ocean Service

Mon, 24 Jan 2011 13:07:12 -0500

David Kennedy has been named NOAA assistant administrator for the National Ocean Service effective immediately. The announcement was made Jan. 24 by Under Secretary of Commerce and NOAA Administrator Dr. Jane Lubchenco.

NOAA: Persistent Drought to Linger Across Southern United States

Sun, 23 Jan 2011 20:31:34 -0500

While wet and snowy weather has dominated the western U.S., persistent drought conditions are likely to linger in the Southern Plains and Southeast through mid to late spring, according to NOAA's National Weather Service. La Niña has kept storms and most of their precipitation in the north, leaving the South drier than normal.

From Hope to Action: Making Healthy Oceans Everyone’s Business

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 13:44:52 -0500

Remarks by Dr. Jane Lubchenco at the National Conference on Science, Policy and the Environment - 2011 Our Changing Oceans (Jan. 20, 2011).

Scientists Successfully Use Sedation to Help Disentangle North Atlantic Right Whale

Tue, 18 Jan 2011 12:16:14 -0500

Scientists from NOAA Fisheries Service and its state and nonprofit partners successfully used at-sea chemical sedation to help cut the remaining ropes from a young North Atlantic right whale on January 15 off the coast of Cape Canaveral, Fla.

North American Winter Storm Forecasts to Get Boost from High-Tech NOAA Plane

Thu, 13 Jan 2011 12:05:06 -0500

NOAA has dispatched one of its highly specialized aircraft to collect atmospheric data over the North Pacific Ocean to enhance forecasts of winter storms for the entire North American continent.

NOAA: 2010 Tied For Warmest Year on Record

Wed, 12 Jan 2011 10:45:30 -0500

According to NOAA scientists, 2010 tied with 2005 as the warmest year of the global surface temperature record, beginning in 1880. This was the 34th consecutive year with global temperatures above the 20th century average.

NOAA Satellites Help Track Major Snowstorm in Northeast

Wed, 12 Jan 2011 14:34:21 -0500

An image captured by NOAA's Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite-13 (GOES-13) shows a major winter storm as it continues to hit the northeastern United States with heavy snow and high winds on Jan. 12. Additional views of winter storms as seen from space can be found at: www.nnvl.noaa.gov.

Snow Just About Everywhere You Go

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 15:52:45 -0500

Every state, with the exception of Florida, currently has snow on the ground. This includes Hawaii where about seven inches of snow is atop Mauna Kea. As of Jan. 11, 69.4 percent of the contiguous United States is covered by snow - this is more than double the snow cover from last month. This week's snowstorm in Southern states has allowed for this unusual occurrence.

Fisheries Law Enforcement Updates

Mon, 27 Sep 2010 11:50:05 -0500

As part of its ongoing efforts to improve its enforcement program, NOAA is undertaking a number of actions. Check here for updates on our corrective action plans, draft penalty policy, priority setting, and other activities.

Fisheries Law Enforcement Updates

Mon, 27 Sep 2010 11:50:05 -0500

As part of its ongoing efforts to improve its enforcement program, NOAA is undertaking a number of actions. Check here for updates on our corrective action plans, the eHotline, draft penalty policy, priority setting, and other activities.

NOAA and Partners Assist Entangled Right Whale off East Coast of Florida

Wed, 5 Jan 2011 12:41:25 -0500

A team of state and federal biologists assisted a severely entangled North Atlantic right whale off the coast of Daytona, Fla., on Dec. 30, 2010. The team successfully removed more than 150 feet of ropes wrapped around the whale’s head and fins, and cut portions of entangling ropes that remain on the animal.

Active Atlantic Hurricane Season a 'Gentle Giant' for U.S.

Mon, 29 Nov 2010 13:17:47 -0500

With a total of 19 named storms, 12 hurricanes and five major hurricanes, the 2010 Atlantic hurricane season was one of the busiest on record - as NOAA forecasters had predicted. Fortunately, nearly all of those storms avoided the U.S. coastline.

New Website Displays Historical Data on NOAA's Deepwater Horizon Response

Wed, 29 Dec 2010 15:27:46 -0500

NOAA has unveiled a web archive of the maps, wildlife reports, scientific reports and other previously released public information used by emergency responders, fishermen, mariners and local officials during the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.

Federal Interagency Group Issues Peer-Reviewed 'Oil Budget' Technical Documentation

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 12:00:14 -0500

The Federal Interagency Solutions Group, established at the request of the U.S. Coast Guard and authorized under a directive from the National Incident Commander (NIC), is releasing today a peer-reviewed report that details the scientific calculations of the Deepwater Horizon BP Oil Spill "Oil Budget Calculator" response tool announced last August.

NOAA: October Ranked 8th Warmest on Record

Thu, 18 Nov 2010 14:58:55 -0500

October ranked the eighth warmest October on record. The first 10 months of 2010 tied with the same period in 1998 for the warmest combined land and ocean surface temperature on record.

NOAA Reopens More Than 8,000 Square Miles in the Gulf of Mexico to Fishing

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 12:23:14 -0500

On Monday, NOAA reopened to commercial and recreational fishing 8,403 square miles of Gulf waters which extend from the Louisiana state water line to due south of the Alabama/Florida state line. This is the eleventh reopening in federal waters since July 22.

Holiday Travel Weather: Naughty or Nice?

Thu, 23 Dec 2010 14:05:23 -0500

Stay safe during this busy holiday travel season by keeping up-to-date on the latest forecasts and weather advisories or warnings issued by NOAA's National Weather Service. Visit www.weather.gov.

NOAA Closes 4,200 Square Miles of Gulf Waters to Royal Red Shrimping

Wed, 24 Nov 2010 17:53:48 -0500

Out of an abundance of caution, NOAA has closed 4,213 square miles of Gulf of Mexico federal waters off Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama to royal red shrimping.

Federal & Academic Scientists Return from Deep-sea Research Cruise in Gulf of Mexico

Thu, 4 Nov 2010 18:32:06 -0400

Government and academic scientists on a multi-week expedition to explore deep-sea coral habitats in the Gulf of Mexico have observed corals and associated communities of marine life that show evidence of recent damage.

NOAA Policy Encourages Catch Shares to End Overfishing and Rebuild Fisheries

Thu, 4 Nov 2010 12:28:40 -0400

On Thursday, NOAA released a national policy encouraging the consideration and use of catch shares, a fishery management tool that has shown it can help rebuild fisheries and sustain fishermen, communities, vibrant working waterfronts and culturally important fishing traditions.

NOAA and FDA Announce Chemical Test for Dispersant in Gulf Seafood; All Samples Test Within Safety Threshold

Fri, 22 Oct 2010 14:45:32 -0400

Building upon the extensive testing and protocols already in use by federal, state and local officials for the fishing waters of the Gulf, NOAA and FDA have developed and are using a chemical test to detect dispersants used in the Deepwater Horizon-BP oil spill in fish, oysters, crab and shrimp.

NOAA: Another Winter of Extremes in Store for U.S. as La Niña Strengthens

Thu, 21 Oct 2010 10:00:32 -0400

The Pacific Northwest should brace for a colder and wetter than average winter, while most of the South and Southeast will be warmer and drier than average through February 2011, according to the annual Winter Outlook released today by NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center.

NOAA Modeling of Indonesian Tsunami

Tue, 26 Oct 2010 15:45:35 -0400

Two hours after the tsunami event, DART® ocean buoys recorded it and scientists were able to compare it with their research forecast models.

NOAA Reopens More Than 7,000 Square Miles in the Gulf of Mexico to Fishing

Fri, 22 Oct 2010 12:45:35 -0400

On Oct. 22, NOAA reopened to commercial and recreational fishing 7,037 square miles of Gulf waters about 80 nautical miles south of the Florida panhandle, between the Florida-Alabama state line and Cape San Blas, Fla. This is the tenth reopening in federal waters since July 22.

NOAA Takes Steps to Reform Enforcement Practices

Mon, 18 Oct 2010 12:21:25 -0400

As part of an ongoing effort to reform its enforcement practices, NOAA's Office of General Counsel, through its Office of General Counsel for Enforcement and Litigation, is requesting public comment on a new draft penalty policy.

NOAA: Year-to-Date Global Temperature Ties for Warmest on Record

Fri, 15 Oct 2010 10:52:09 -0400

Arctic sea ice reaches its third lowest minimum extent on record.

NOAA Reopens Nearly 7,000 Square Miles in the Gulf of Mexico to Fishing

Fri, 15 Oct 2010 11:11:35 -0400

On Oct. 15, NOAA reopened to commercial and recreational fishing 6,879 square miles of Gulf waters about 180-200 nautical miles south of the Florida panhandle, between the Florida-Alabama state line and Cape San Blas, Fla. This is the ninth reopening in federal waters since July 22.

NOAA: U.S. Experienced Above Average Temperatures, Rainfall in September

Thu, 7 Oct 2010 13:34:09 -0400

The contiguous United States had its 14th warmest September on record, according to the latest NOAA State of the Climate report issued on Oct. 7. Average temperatures for September were 67.1 F, which is 1.7 F above the 1901-2000 average.

Resource Restoration Planning Process Begins for BP/Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill

Wed, 29 Sep 2010 11:01:00 -0400

The Department of the Interior, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and the co-trustees for natural resources affected by the BP/Deepwater Horizon oil spill announced today they have started the injury assessment and restoration planning phase of the Natural Resource Damage Assessment.

NOAA Reopens Nearly 3,000 Square Miles in the Gulf of Mexico to Fishing

Tue, 5 Oct 2010 16:42:35 -0400

On Oct. 5, NOAA reopened to commercial and recreational fishing 2,927 square miles of Gulf waters off eastern Louisiana, directly south and southwest of East Bay. This is the eighth reopening in federal waters since July 22.

NOAA: Coral Bleaching Likely in Caribbean This Year

Wed, 22 Sep 2010 17:21:47 -0400

According to the NOAA Coral Reef Watch monitoring system coral bleaching is likely in the Caribbean in 2010. Scientists are already reporting coral bleaching at several Caribbean sites and severe bleaching has been reported from other parts of the world.

NOAA Strategy for Future Reopenings

Mon, 27 Sep 2010 16:03:27 -0400

NOAA's Fisheries Service first prohibited commercial and recreational fishing in federal waters impacted by the Deepwater Horizon/BP oil spill as a seafood safety measure in early May. The closed area was 88,522 square miles or 37 percent of the Gulf of Mexico federal waters at its largest and now after six reopenings is 31,915 square miles or 13 percent of the Gulf of Mexico federal waters.

NOAA Reopens Nearly 8,000 Square Miles in the Gulf of Mexico to Fishing

Tue, 21 Sep 2010 14:29:13 -0400

NOAA reopened to commercial and recreational fishing 7,970 square miles of Gulf waters along the southern boundary of the federal closed area on Tuesday. This is the sixth reopening in federal waters since July 22.

NOAA Reopens More Than 5,000 Square Miles in the Gulf of Mexico to Fishing

Fri, 1 Oct 2010 10:45:13 -0400

NOAA today reopened to commercial and recreational fishing 5,628 square miles of Gulf waters off eastern Louisiana, just west of the Mississippi River delta. This is the seventh reopening in federal waters since July 22.

NOAA Reopens Gulf Recreational Red Snapper Season Allowing Anglers to Catch Remaining Quota

Tue, 21 Sep 2010 17:45:42 -0400

NOAA's Fisheries Service announced today that recreational red snapper fishing in the Gulf of Mexico will reopen for an added season to allow fishermen to catch the quota they did not reach because a portion of the Gulf was closed due to the Deepwater Horizon/BP oil spill.

NOAA: 2010 Tied with 1998 as Warmest Global Temperature on Record

Wed, 15 Sep 2010 12:00:13 -0400

Summer 2010 the second warmest on record, Arctic sea ice continues its 14-year decline

No Dead Zones Observed or Expected as Part of BP Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill

Tue, 7 Sep 2010 14:14:13 -0400

Report finds decreased, but stabilized levels of dissolved oxygen in gulf areas with subsurface oil.

NOAA Reopens More Than 3,000 Square Miles in the Gulf to Fishing

Fri, 3 Sep 2010 13:50:22 -0400

On Friday NOAA reopened 3,114 square miles of Gulf waters offshore of the western Florida panhandle to commercial and recreational fishing. The reopening was announced after consultation with FDA and under a reopening protocol agreed to by NOAA, the FDA, and the Gulf states.

Secretary Locke Extends Disaster Declaration for California Salmon Fishermen

Thu, 2 Sep 2010 16:16:10 -0400

U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke announced today an extension of the disaster for California salmon fishermen due to the low numbers of spawning Chinook salmon returning to the Sacramento River and the subsequent reduction in commercial fishery revenues.

Matthew Targets Central America

Thu, 23 Sep 2010 16:50:05 -0400

NOAA's National Hurricane Center is now tracking the 13th named storm of the Atlantic Hurricane Season.

NOAA Reopens More than 5,000 Square Miles in the Gulf to Fishing

Thu, 2 Sep 2010 16:14:22 -0400

On thursday, NOAA reopened to commercial and recreational fishing 5,130 square miles of Gulf waters stretching from the far eastern coast of Louisiana, through Mississippi, Alabama, and the western Florida panhandle.

Scientists Release the First Rescued, Rehabilitated Sea Turtles Back into the Gulf

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 10:37:56 -0400

NOAA Administrator Dr. Jane Lubchenco and Adm. Thad Allen joined biologists as they released 23 Kemp’s ridley sea turtles back into the Gulf of Mexico after they were successfully rescued and rehabilitated from the effects of the oil spill.

Atlantic Hurricane Season Heats Up

Sun, 19 Sep 2010 22:02:04 -0400

NHC is tracking two storms: Hurricane Igor and Tropical Storm Lisa.

Second Warmest July and Warmest Year-to-Date Global Temperature on Record

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 10:34:00 -0400

The combined global land and ocean surface temperature made this July the second warmest on record, behind 1998, and the warmest averaged January-July on record.

Atlantic Hurricane Season Heats Up

Tue, 7 Sep 2010 14:14:13 -0400

September is historically the peak month for the Atlantic hurricane season and this year is no exception. NOAA's National Hurricane Center is currently tracking three storms: Hurricane Igor, Hurricane Julia and Hurricane Karl.

NOAA Reopens More Than 5,000 Square Miles of Closed Gulf Fishing Area

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 14:32:28 -0400

NOAA has reopened 5,144 square miles of Gulf waters to commercial and recreational finfish fishing. The reopening was announced after consultation with FDA and under a reopening protocol agreed to by NOAA, the FDA, and the Gulf states.

Remnants of Hermine Soaking the Southern Plains

Wed, 8 Sep 2010 10:06:03 -0400

NOAA's National Weather Service has issued flood-related alerts from Texas to Missouri. Remember, when confronted with a water-covered road: Turn Around, Don't Drown.

NOAA Still Expects Active Atlantic Hurricane Season

Thu, 5 Aug 2010 10:55:34 -0400

The Atlantic Basin remains on track for an active hurricane season, according to the scheduled seasonal outlook update from NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, a division of the National Weather Service.

Hermine Delivering Heavy Rain to Texas

Tue, 7 Sep 2010 10:48:49 -0400

NOAA's National Weather Service is tracking the storm and issuing forecasts and flood-related alerts. Remember, when confronted with a water-covered road: Turn Around, Don't Drown.

NOAA Reopens More than 4,000 Square Miles of Closed Gulf Fishing Area

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 13:34:43 -0400

Today NOAA reopened 4,281 square miles of Gulf waters off western Louisiana to commercial and recreational fishing.

Keeping an Eye on Hermine

Mon, 6 Sep 2010 12:00:18 -0400

NOAA's National Weather Service is closely monitoring Hermine as it targets parts of Texas. For the latest forecasts visit weather.gov or hurricanes.gov.

Tracking Dangerous Hurricane Earl

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 15:55:44 -0400

NOAA’s National Weather Service is closely monitoring the powerful Hurricane Earl in the western Atlantic Ocean. For the latest forecasts visit weather.gov or hurricanes.gov.

Secretary Locke Extends Disaster Declaration for California Salmon Fishermen

Thu, 2 Sep 2010 13:19:32 -0400

Federal Science Report Details Fate of Oil From BP Spill

Wed, 4 Aug 2010 11:43:45 -0400

A third of the total amount of oil released in the Deepwater Horizon/BP spill was captured or mitigated by the Unified Command recovery operation according to a federal science report.

Salazar, Lubchenco Applaud Designation of Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument as a World Heritage Site

Sun, 1 Aug 2010 13:59:07 -0400

Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar and NOAA Administrator Dr. Jane Lubchenco today commended the World Heritage Committee for adding Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument to the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage List.

Deepwater Horizon/BP Oil Spill: 100 Days — A Snapshot of NOAA's Response

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 14:52:14 -0400

As the nation’s lead science agency for oil spills, NOAA has been on the scene from day one — providing coordinated scientific, weather and biological information and products when and where they are needed most.

Second Federal Analysis Gives Further Clues about Location and Movement of Subsurface Oil

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 10:14:45 -0400

NOAA, the EPA and the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy today released its second peer-reviewed, analytical summary report about subsurface oil monitoring in the Gulf of Mexico.

NOAA: Past Decade Warmest on Record According to Scientists in 48 Countries

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 12:29:18 -0400

The 2009 State of the Climate report released on Wednesday draws on data for 10 key climate indicators that all point to the same finding: the scientific evidence that our world is warming is unmistakable.

NOAA Reopens One-Third of Closed Gulf Fishing Area

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 16:03:41 -0400

NOAA reopened 26,388 square miles of Gulf waters to commercial and recreational fishing on Thursday.

NOAA Releases Data Report on Air Quality Measurements Near the Deepwater Horizon/BP Oil Spill Area

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 15:30:47 -0400

NOAA scientists today released a data report on air quality measurements taken in June in the vicinity of the Deepwater Horizon/BP oil spill area.

Obama Administration Unveils New National Policy for Our Oceans, Coasts and Great Lakes

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 18:21:16 -0400

The National Policy for the Stewardship of Our Oceans, Coasts and Great Lakes sets the nation on a clear path for the sustainable use of our oceans and coastal lands. Heralded as a significant achievement, the new policy adopts the final recommendations of the president’s Interagency Ocean Policy Task Force and states clearly and loudly that healthy oceans matter. Learn more at www.cmsp.noaa.gov.

NOAA, FDA, and Gulf Coast State Officials Affirm Commitment to Ensuring Safety of Gulf Coast Seafood

Tue, 29 Jun 2010 15:47:29 -0400

Gulf state health and fisheries officials joined with senior leaders from several federal agencies to affirm a shared commitment to ensuring the safety of seafood coming out of the Gulf of Mexico.

NOAA: June, April to June, and Year-to-Date Global Temperatures are Warmest on Record

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 12:16:10 -0400

Last month’s combined global land and ocean surface temperature made it the warmest June on record and the warmest on record averaged for any April-June and January-June periods, according to NOAA.

NOAA Expands Fishing Closed Area in Gulf of Mexico

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 17:06:28 -0400

On July 12, NOAA expanded the closed fishing area in the Gulf of Mexico to include portions of the oil slick moving beyond the area’s current northwestern boundary, off the Louisiana federal-state waterline. This boundary was moved westward of Holly Beach, La., and is approximately 17 statute miles from the Louisiana-Texas border.

Drought Conditions in Southwest U.S. to Worsen

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 12:34:23 -0400

NOAA’s National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center released its seasonal drought outlook today, which indicates already dry conditions across parts of Arizona and New Mexico are likely to worsen in coming months.

Administration’s Joint Analysis Group Releases First Scientific Report on Subsea Monitoring Data From Gulf Spill

Wed, 23 Jun 2010 11:46:43 -0400

NOAA, the EPA and the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy today released the first peer-reviewed, analytical summary report about the subsea monitoring in the vicinity of the Deepwater Horizon wellhead.

NOAA Expands Fishing Closed Area in Gulf of Mexico

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 16:57:05 -0400

NOAA has expanded the closed fishing area in the Gulf of Mexico to capture portions of the oil slick moving beyond the area’s current northern boundary, off the Florida panhandle’s federal-state waterline. This boundary was moved to Panama City Beach.

Initial Observations from the NOAA Ship Thomas Jefferson

Thu, 22 Apr 2010 16:03:34 -0400

NOAA Ship Thomas Jefferson returned to Galveston, Texas, from an eight-day research mission to investigate the presence and distribution of subsurface oil from the Deepwater Horizon/BP oil spill.

NOAA: U.S. Had Eighth Warmest June on Record, Above-Normal Precipitation

Fri, 9 Jul 2010 15:36:04 -0400

NOAA’s State of the Climate report shows the June 2010 average temperature for the contiguous United States was 71.4 degrees F, which is 2.2 degrees F above the long-term average (1901-2000).

NOAA Expands Fishing Closed Area in Gulf of Mexico

Mon, 28 Jun 2010 16:04:28 -0400

NOAA has expanded the closed fishing area in the Gulf of Mexico to include portions of the oil slick moving beyond the area’s current northern boundary, off the Florida panhandle’s federal-state waterline.

Federal Agencies Introduce Online Mapping Tool to Track Gulf Response

Tue, 8 Jun 2010 10:13:16 -0400

NOAA launches a new federal Web site meant to answer America's questions -- a one-stop shop for detailed near-real-time information about the response to the Deepwater Horizon/BP oil spill.

NOAA Opens 339 Square-Mile Fishing Area in Gulf of Mexico

Fri, 4 Jun 2010 17:45:34 -0400

NOAA has opened 339 square miles of previously closed fishing area off the Florida panhandle. Please visit http://sero.nmfs.noaa.gov for more information.

NOAA Opens More Than 8,000 Square Miles of Fishing Closed Area in Gulf of Mexico

Wed, 23 Jun 2010 15:53:56 -0400

NOAA has opened more than 8,000 square miles of previously closed fishing area in the Gulf of Mexico, because the agency has not observed oil in the area.

NOAA Expects Busy Atlantic Hurricane Season

Thu, 27 May 2010 08:59:26 -0400

An “active to extremely active” hurricane season is expected for the Atlantic Basin this year according to the seasonal outlook issued today by NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center – a division of the National Weather Service.

NOAA Expands Fishing Closed Area in Gulf of Mexico

Wed, 2 Jun 2010 17:45:34 -0400

NOAA has expanded some boundaries of the closed fishing area in the Gulf of Mexico to capture portions of the slick moving beyond the current boundaries. Please visit http://sero.nmfs.noaa.gov for more information.

Emergency Fishing Closure - Updated Daily

Thu, 13 May 2010 11:23:34 -0400

Area boundaries could be modified daily, based on where and how fast the oil spill is moving. NOAA will provide daily updates online at by 12:00 p.m. EDT. Any changes to the closed area will become effective at 6:00 p.m. EDT the same day.

Commerce Secretary Gary Locke Announces Fishery Failure Determination in Gulf of Mexico

Tue, 25 May 2010 08:43:15 -0400

U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke today determined there has been a fishery disaster in the Gulf of Mexico due to the economic impact on commercial and recreational fisheries from the ongoing Deepwater Horizon oil spill

NOAA Expands Fishing Closed Area in Gulf of Mexico

Tue, 25 May 2010 17:15:34 -0400

More than 77 percent of gulf still open for fishing. Closure area may be updated daily as necessary. Please visit http://sero.nmfs.noaa.gov for more information.

NOAA: Warmest April Global Temperature on Record

Mon, 17 May 2010 11:46:55 -0400

The combined global land and ocean surface temperature was the warmest on record for both April and for the period from January-April, according to NOAA. Additionally, last month’s average ocean surface temperature was the warmest on record for any April, and the global land surface temperature was the third warmest on record.

NOAA Extends Fishing Closed Area to Portion of Loop Current as Precaution

Tue, 18 May 2010 17:00:34 -0400

More than 81 percent of gulf remains open to fishing. Closure area may be updated daily as necessary. Please visit http://sero.nmfs.noaa.gov for more information.

NOAA Dispatches Northeast Science Chief to Lead Rapid-Response Contamination Testing System

Tue, 11 May 2010 14:06:21 -0400

NOAA is sending one of its top fisheries science directors to the Gulf this week to lead its effort to rapidly assess, test and report findings about risks posed to fish in the Gulf of Mexico by contaminants from the BP oil spill and clean-up activities.

NOAA Modifies Fishing Closed Areas in Gulf; 93 Percent Remains Open

Tue, 11 May 2010 16:23:34 -0400

NOAA’s Fisheries Service has modified the area closed to fishing in the Gulf of Mexico due to the BP oil spill, which will include federal waters seaward of Louisiana state waters in the vicinity of Timbalier Island to waters off Florida’s Choctawhatchee Bay.

NOAA Expands Commercial and Recreational Fishing Closure in Oil-Affected Portion of Gulf of Mexico

Fri, 7 May 2010 13:45:34 -0400

NOAA has modified and expanded the boundaries of the closed fishing area to better reflect the current location of the BP oil spill, and is extending the fishing restriction until May 17.

NOAA Ocean Science Mission Changes Course to Collect Seafloor and Water Column Oil Spill Data

Thu, 6 May 2010 19:03:34 -0400

A NOAA-sponsored ocean mission, set to explore for deep sea corals, has been redirected to collect seafloor and water column data from areas near the Gulf of Mexico oil spill source.

NOAA Closes Commercial and Recreational Fishing in Oil-Affected Portion of Gulf of Mexico

Sun, 2 May 2010 15:49:06 -0400

NOAA is restricting fishing for a minimum of ten days in federal waters most affected by the BP oil spill, largely between Louisiana state waters at the mouth of the Mississippi River to waters off Florida’s Pensacola Bay.

NOAA: Global Temps Push Last Month to Hottest March on Record

Thu, 15 Apr 2010 11:03:34 -0400

The world’s combined global land and ocean surface temperature made last month the warmest March on record, according to NOAA.

NOAA Tracks Ash from Iceland Volcano

Mon, 19 Apr 2010 11:03:35 -0400

From the earliest moments of the eruption, a global network of Volcanic Ash Advisory Centers began monitoring the ash plume and the appropriate centers issued advisories about flow of the ash through the atmosphere.

NOAA Hurricane Team to Embark on Gulf Coast Awareness Tour

Tue, 20 Apr 2010 10:20:55 -0400

NOAA hurricane experts will visit five Gulf Coast cities aboard a NOAA hurricane hunter aircraft to raise awareness about storm threats and the danger of being caught without a personal hurricane plan.

NOAA’s New “Hurricane Eye in the Sky” and Key Weather Satellite Gets into Position

Wed, 14 Apr 2010 14:55:44 -0400

NOAA’s GOES-13 spacecraft today became the official GOES-EAST satellite, perched 22,300 miles above the equator in a prime location to spot potentially life-threatening weather affecting the eastern half of the nation.

50th Anniversary of the Satellite that “Forever Changed Weather Forecasting”

Thu, 1 Apr 2010 09:50:13 -0400

Fifty years ago today, the world’s first weather satellite lifted off from Cape Canaveral, Fla., and opened a new and exciting dimension in weather forecasting.

NOAA Announces First Tsunami Awareness Week

Fri, 19 Mar 2010 14:22:44 -0400

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the National Tsunami Hazard Mitigation Program have designated March 21-27 as Tsunami Awareness Week.

Statement from Commerce Secretary Gary Locke on National Academy of Sciences Review of California Bay Delta Water Issues

Fri, 19 Mar 2010 09:32:04 -0400

Secretary of Commerce Gary Locke released the following statement on the National Academy of Sciences scientific review of NOAA Fisheries Service biological opinion for the Sacramento/San Joaquin Delta system.

NOAA Takes Steps to Assure Fair and Effective Enforcement, Protect Resources

Thu, 18 Mar 2010 10:18:51 -0400

NOAA administrator Jane Lubchenco today outlined specific steps the agency has taken and will take to assure that NOAA has an effective and fair enforcement program to protect fisheries and other marine resources.

NOAA: Imminent Flood Threat in Midwest, South and East Also at Risk

Tue, 16 Mar 2010 09:45:02 -0500

Major flooding has begun and is forecast to continue through spring in parts of the Midwest according to NOAA’s National Weather Service. The South and East are also more susceptible to flooding as an El Niño influenced winter left the area soggier than usual.

NOAA: U.S. Winter and February Cooler Than Average

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 11:42:02 -0500

NOAA’s State of the Climate report for the winter season and the month of February state that temperatures were below normal for the contiguous United States. The winter season was wetter than normal; however precipitation in February alone was slightly below average.

Newest NOAA Geostationary Satellite Reaches Orbit

Thu, 4 Mar 2010 13:35:00 -0500

NOAA and NASA officials announced a new Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite (GOES), launched tonight, successfully reached its initial orbit, joining four other GOES spacecraft that help NOAA forecasters track life-threatening weather and solar activity.

Statement by Eric Schwaab, NOAA Assistant Administrator for Fisheries, on Today’s “United We Fish” Rally at Capitol Hill

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 12:30:03 -0500

I know the key to any successful fishery management program is active involvement by commercial and recreational fishermen as well as other interested stakeholders.

NOAA FY2011 Budget Information

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 15:24:11 -0500

President Proposes Key Investments in NOAA 2011 Budget. More information at http://www.noaa.gov/budget

Monica Medina Appointed U.S. Commissioner to International Whaling Commission

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 15:24:11 -0500

Monica Medina, Commerce Department principal deputy under secretary for oceans and atmosphere, has been appointed the U.S. commissioner for the International Whaling Commission by President Barack Obama.

NOAA National Weather Service to Use New Hurricane Wind Scale

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 14:06:00 -0500

NOAA’s National Weather Service will use a new hurricane scale this season called the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale. The scale keeps the same wind speed ranges as the original Saffir-Simpson Scale but storm surge and flooding prediction have been dropped.

Announcing the New Assistant Administrator for NOAA Fisheries

Mon, 8 Feb 2010 17:00:24 -0500

Message from NOAA Administrator, Dr. Jane Lubchenco.

Commerce Department Proposes Establishment of NOAA Climate Service

Mon, 8 Feb 2010 09:30:24 -0500

U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke announced the intent to create a NOAA Climate Service line office dedicated to bringing together the agency’s strong climate science and service delivery capabilities.

Commerce Secretary Locke and NOAA Administrator Lubchenco Unveil Landmark Climate.Gov Portal to Climate Information

Mon, 8 Feb 2010 09:28:33 -0500

Commerce Secretary Gary Locke and NOAA Administrator Jane Lubchenco unveiled a new Web site that will serve as a single point-of-entry for NOAA’s climate information, data, products and services.

NOAA Produces Images of Haiti for First Responders

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 16:41:05 -0500

A specially equipped NOAA jet conducted aerial surveys of earthquake-stricken Haiti on Jan. 17 and 18 as part of NOAA’s effort to help responders assess damage and plan recovery efforts.

Commerce Secretary Locke Announces “Fishery Failure" Determination for Alaska Chinook Salmon

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 13:47:07 -0500

Secretary of Commerce Gary Locke today determined that there has been a commercial fishery failure for the Yukon River Chinook salmon due to low salmon returns.

NOAA Dispatches High-Tech Research Plane to Improve Winter Storm Forecasts

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 13:54:02 -0500

NOAA’s Gulfstream IV aircraft will begin flying over the North Pacific Ocean to fill gaps in atmospheric observation — enhancing forecasts of winter storms for the entire North American continent.

NOAA Proposes Rule to Deny Port Entry to Illegal Fishing Vessels

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 15:14:51 -0500

NOAA is seeking public comment on a proposed rule that would allow the NOAA assistant administrator for fisheries to deny a vessel entry into a U.S. port if that vessel has been listed for engaging in illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing.

National Saltwater Angler Registry Opens on New Year’s Day

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 10:48:52 -0500

The National Saltwater Angler Registry, which launches on January 1, 2010, will help address concerns about the data used to estimate the effects of recreational fishing on ocean resources and the nation’s economy.

Scientists Discover and Image Explosive Deep-Ocean Volcano

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 16:01:25 -0500

Scientists funded by NOAA and the National Science Foundation recorded the deepest erupting volcano yet discovered, describing high-definition video of the undersea eruption as “spectacular.”

Obama Administration Officials Release Interim Framework for Effective Coastal and Marine Spatial Planning

Mon, 14 Dec 2009 14:35:25 -0500

The President's Ocean Policy Task Force released the second of two ocean reports for 60 day public comment period. Called the Interim Framework for Effective Coastal and Marine Spatial Planning, this report lays out a new and proactive approach to better determine how our ocean, coasts and Great Lakes will be sustainably used and protected, now and in the future.

NOAA Encourages Use of Catch Shares to End Overfishing, Rebuild Fisheries and Fishing Communities

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 10:40:22 -0500

NOAA released today for public comment a draft national policy encouraging the use of catch shares, a fishery management tool that aims to end overfishing and rebuild and sustain fishing jobs and fishing communities.

NOAA Administrator Jane Lubchenco and Senior NOAA Climate Scientists Contribute to COP-15 Conference

Mon, 7 Dec 2009 19:00:45 -0500

Jane Lubchenco, Ph.D., under secretary of commerce for oceans and atmosphere and NOAA administrator, will be in Copenhagen as part of the U.S. Delegation from Dec. 13-16.

NOAA Weather Radio As a Great Holiday Gift

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 09:28:02 -0500

When searching for that special gift this holiday season, consider giving a potentially life-saving NOAA All Hazards Weather Radio.

2009 Global Temperatures Well Above Average; Slightly Above-Average for U.S.

Tue, 8 Dec 2009 10:54:54 -0500

Global surface temperatures for 2009 will be well above the long-term average, while the annual temperature for the contiguous United States will likely be above the long-term average, according to a preliminary analysis by NOAA’s National Climatic Data Center.

Snowstorm Targets New England Before Departing

Fri, 18 Dec 2009 10:21:25 -0500

As heavy snowfall releases its grip on the mid-Atlantic, the National Weather Service says the core of heavy snow and high winds will hit southern New England, especially Sunday morning.

Major Winter Storm Crossing the Country

Mon, 7 Dec 2009 15:36:23 -0500

Heavy snow and high winds are forecast from the Midwest to the Northeast as a strong storm moves across the country. Numerous winter weather alerts have been issued by the National Weather Service.

Slow Atlantic Hurricane Season Comes to a Close

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 10:32:39 -0500

The 2009 Atlantic hurricane season officially ends today marking the close of a season with the fewest named storms and hurricanes since 1997 thanks, in part, to El Niño.

NOAA Administrator Comments on Federal Columbia River Power System Biological Opinion

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 16:02:19 -0500

Dr. Jane Lubchenco, Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere and NOAA Administrator, provided the following statement following a federal court hearing on the Federal Columbia River Power System Biological Opinion.

Watch Coastal Restoration at Work - Live and Online

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 08:43:17 -0500

NOAA has set up live cameras on three of its Recovery Act restoration projects. Zoom in on the action, watch time lapse clips, or click play to watch the activity frame by frame.

NOAA Issues Statement on ICCAT Annual Meeting

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 09:47:37 -0500

NOAA issued a statement about the outcome of the annual meeting of the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas.

U.S. Posts Third Coolest-Highest Precipitation for October on Record

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 14:59:59 -0500

The October 2009 average temperature for the contiguous United States was the third coolest on record for that month according to NOAA’s State of the Climate report issued today by the National Climatic Data Center.

Storm Wreaks Havoc in Mid-Atlantic

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 11:01:35 -0500

Hurricane Ida remnants will continue to churn along the mid-Atlantic coast through Saturday. The storm is causing widespread rainfall and gale-force winds from southern Virginia into southern New England. Some areas will continue to experience significant coastal flooding, above-normal high tides and dangerous storm surge.

Dr. Susan Solomon Wins Prestigious Award

Fri, 6 Nov 2009 10:23:19 -0500

A senior scientist at NOAA's Earth System Research Laboratory, Dr. Solomon, accepted the 2009 Volvo environment prize for her pioneering scientific contributions and subsequent impacts on environmental policies.

Follow Dr. Jane Lubchenco on Facebook!

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 18:17:44 -0400

Our NOAA Administrator has a new Facebook page. Become a fan to follow the happenings at NOAA.

2009 Winter Outlook

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 10:30:00 -0400

El Niño to Help Steer U.S. Winter Weather

NOAA: Global Surface Temperature Was Second Warmest for September

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 17:37:42 -0400

The combined global land and ocean surface temperature was the second warmest September on record, according to NOAA’s National Climatic Data Center in Asheville, N.C.

Tsunami Safety - Stay Informed!

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 17:26:55 -0400

NOAA helps keep the nation's coastline safe through observations and warnings of impending tsunamis. Education is key: know how to recognize the signs of a tsunami and know what to do.

Tracking Tropical Storm Ida

Sun, 8 Nov 2009 17:23:18 -0500

Ida is weakening over the Gulf of Mexico, but is still forecast to bring heavy rain and gusty winds to parts of the northern U.S. Gulf Coast. Get the latest information from NOAA’s National Weather Service.

NOAA and Partners Gather at Hunt’s Mill Dam to Celebrate $3 Million Rhode Island River Restoration Projects

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 09:07:37 -0400

NOAA Administrator Dr. Jane Lubchenco joined with federal, state and local officials and volunteers at Hunt’s Mills Dam in East Providence, R.I., to celebrate a $3 million American Reinvestment and Recovery Act project restoring a migratory fish passage.

Obama Administration Officials Release Interagency Ocean Policy Task Force Interim Report

Fri, 18 Sep 2009 09:21:36 -0400

Obama Administration officials released the Interagency Ocean Policy Task Force Interim Report for a 30-day public review and comment period.

NOAA Administrator Comments on Release of Interagency Ocean Policy Task Force Interim Report

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 15:15:48 -0400

Jane Lubchenco, Ph.D., the under secretary of commerce for oceans and atmosphere and NOAA administrator, comments on release of the Interagency Ocean Policy Task Force interim report to the President.

NOAA: Warmest Global Sea-Surface Temperatures for August and Summer

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 11:57:43 -0400

The world’s ocean surface temperature was the warmest for any August on record, and the warmest on record averaged for any June-August summer season, according to NOAA’s National Climatic Data Center.

NOAA Strengthens 2008 Columbia River Salmon Protection Strategy

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 11:21:13 -0400

Backed by sound science, strong stakeholder support and extensive outreach, the federal government today filed with a United States district court a strengthened plan to implement NOAA’s 2008 biological opinion governing operation of the Federal Columbia River Power System.

NOAA: Summer Temperature Below Average for U.S.

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 16:09:50 -0400

The average June-August 2009 summer temperature for the contiguous United States was below average – the 34th coolest on record, according to a preliminary analysis by NOAA’s National Climatic Data Center in Asheville, N.C. August was also below the long-term average.

NOAA to Pursue National Policy for Sustainable Marine Aquaculture

Thu, 3 Sep 2009 09:44:21 -0400

NOAA today announced its intent to develop a comprehensive national policy for sustainable marine aquaculture in the coming months, providing a framework for addressing aquaculture activity in federal waters.

NOAA Announces New Catch Share Program in Gulf of Mexico

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 10:37:35 -0400

NOAA’s Fisheries Service will implement catch shares in the Gulf of Mexico commercial grouper and tilefish fisheries beginning January 1, 2010, in an effort to reduce overcapacity and improve profitability and working conditions for commercial fishermen.

NOAA Study: Nitrous Oxide Now Top Ozone-Depleting Emission

Fri, 28 Aug 2009 08:44:59 -0400

Nitrous oxide has now become the largest ozone-depleting substance emitted through human activities, and is expected to remain the largest throughout the 21st century, NOAA scientists say in a new study.

NOAA Administrator to Lead U.S. Delegation to World Climate Conference-3 Looking Ahead to ‘A Clear Chance to Shape Our Future’

Thu, 27 Aug 2009 12:59:15 -0400

Jane Lubchenco, Ph.D., under secretary of commerce for oceans and atmosphere and NOAA administrator, will lead a U.S. delegation to Geneva, Switzerland, August 31- September 4 for the World Climate Conference-3 in efforts to establish a Global Framework for Climate Services.

NOAA’s Next Generation Strategic Plan - You Can Help Chart the Future

Wed, 19 Aug 2009 14:04:44 -0400

Today’s the day you can help chart NOAA’s future as we build the agency’s Next Generation Strategic Plan (NGSP). And, all it takes is 10 minutes.

Secretary of Commerce Gary Locke Approves Fisheries Plan for Arctic

Thu, 20 Aug 2009 16:28:28 -0400

U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gary Locke today approved a plan to prohibit the expansion of commercial fishing in federal Arctic waters until researchers gather sufficient information on fish and the Arctic marine environment.

Secretary of Commerce Announces $40 Million in Recovery Act Projects

Thu, 20 Aug 2009 13:04:13 -0400

Commerce Secretary Gary Locke announced in Norfolk, Va. today $40 million for critical hydrographic survey and chart projects across the U.S. that strengthen the economy, create jobs, and support safe and efficient marine commerce and trade.

NOAA Joins Other U.S. Agencies and Canada to Survey the Arctic Continental Shelf

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 10:11:05 -0400

NOAA will join a multi-agency joint expedition to collect and share data useful to both countries in defining the full extent of the Arctic continental shelf.

NOAA Lowers Hurricane Season Outlook, Cautions Public Not to Let Down Guard

Thu, 6 Aug 2009 09:57:22 -0400

According to its August Atlantic hurricane season outlook, NOAA now expects a near- to below-normal Atlantic hurricane season, as the calming effects of El Niño continue to develop. But scientists say the season’s quiet start does not guarantee quiet times ahead.

NOAA: Warmest July on Record for Ocean Surface Temperature

Fri, 14 Aug 2009 15:04:44 -0400

The planet’s ocean surface temperature was the warmest on record for July, breaking the previous high mark established in 1998 according to NOAA's National Climatic Data Center in Asheville, N.C.

NOAA Selects Newport, Ore., for Marine Operations Center-Pacific

Tue, 4 Aug 2009 13:02:00 -0400

NOAA has selected the Port of Newport, Ore., to be the new home of the agency’s Marine Operations Center-Pacific beginning in 2011 pending the signing of a 20-year lease.

Smaller Than Expected, But Severe, Dead Zone in Gulf of Mexico

Mon, 27 Jul 2009 10:31:09 -0400

NOAA-supported scientists found the size of this year’s Gulf of Mexico dead zone to be smaller than forecasted, measuring 3,000 square miles. However the dead zone, which is usually limited to water just above the sea floor, was severe where it did occur, extending closer to the water surface than in most years.

NOAA and San Francisco’s Exploratorium Announce Educational Partnership

Fri, 24 Jul 2009 10:50:06 -0400

NOAA and the Exploratorium announced a five-year partnership to bring cutting edge climate and ocean science to the public.

NOAA: Warmest June on Record for Global Ocean

Fri, 17 Jul 2009 11:15:33 -0400

The combined average global land and ocean surface temperatures for June 2009 ranked the second warmest since worldwide records began in 1880, according to NOAA's National Climatic Data Center in Asheville, N.C.

Tsunami Symposium Sees NOAA Research Forecast in Action

Fri, 17 Jul 2009 11:26:09 -0400

During a session on tsunami forecasting during an international meeting in Russia on July 15, scientists saw NOAA’s Internet-based tsunami research forecast system in action.

NOAA Scientists Find Tsunami “Shadow” Visible from Space

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 13:59:21 -0400

NOAA scientists have now demonstrated that tsunamis in the open ocean can change sea surface texture in a way that can be measured by satellite-borne radars. The finding could help save lives through improved detection and forecasting of tsunami intensity and direction at the ocean surface.

Stimulus Fund Awards for Habitat Restoration in Oregon

Fri, 10 Jul 2009 12:40:04 -0400

NOAA Administrator Dr. Jane Lubchenco today announced more than $7 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funding to restore habitat projects throughout coastal Oregon.

El Niño Arrives; Expected to Persist through Winter 2009-10

Thu, 9 Jul 2009 09:03:58 -0400

NOAA scientists today announced the arrival of El Niño, a climate phenomenon that has significant influences on global weather, ocean conditions and marine fisheries.

$167 Million in Recovery Act Funding for Marine and Coastal Habitat Restoration

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 11:39:33 -0400

Commerce Secretary Gary Locke announced today 50 habitat restoration projects that will restore damaged wetlands, shellfish beds, coral reefs and reopen fish passages that boost the health and resiliency of our nation’s coastal and Great Lakes communities.

New NOAA Satellite Reaches Orbit

Sat, 27 Jun 2009 19:45:01 -0400

A new Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite was launched tonight and successfully reached orbit, joining three other GOES spacecraft that help NOAA forecasters track life-threatening weather and solar storms.

NOAA Notifies Gloucester Seafood Display Auction of 10-day Sanction

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 13:49:12 -0400

NOAA today sent the Gloucester Seafood Display Auction a letter notifying it that it is required to refrain from buying, possessing or selling federally regulated fish for 10 consecutive days.

Report: Authoritative Assessment of National, Regional Impacts of Global Climate Change

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 13:34:10 -0400

A new report compiles years of scientific research and offers a valuable, objective scientific consensus on how climate change is affecting — and may further affect — the U.S.

NOAA: Fourth Warmest May for Globe

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 14:18:40 -0400

The combined average global land and ocean surface temperatures for May 2009 ranked fourth warmest since worldwide records began in 1880, according to NOAA's National Climatic Data Center.

Economic Value of NOAA’s Geodetic Services at $2.4 Billion

Mon, 15 Jun 2009 14:10:15 +0000

The NOAA-managed National Spatial Reference System provides more than $2.4 billion in potential annual benefits to the U.S. economy, according to a new independent study.

NOAA: U.S. Temperature Warmer than Average for May

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 15:32:11 +0000

The May 2009 temperature for the contiguous U.S. was above the long-term average, based on records going back to 1895, according to an analysis by NOAA’s National Climatic Data Center.

NOAA Biological Opinion Finds California Water Projects Jeopardize Listed Species

Thu, 4 Jun 2009 18:21:57 +0000

NOAA released its final biological opinion today that finds the water pumping operations in California’s Central Valley jeopardize the existence of several threatened and endangered species under the jurisdiction of NOAA’s Fisheries Service.

NOAA Selects Contractor to Develop GOES-R Ground System

Wed, 27 May 2009 22:59:30 +0000

NOAA announced that Harris Corporation has been selected to develop the GOES-R ground system, which will capture, process and distribute information from NOAA’s next generation geostationary satellite series to users around the world.

NOAA Projects Near-Normal Atlantic Hurricane Season, Encourages Preparedness

Thu, 21 May 2009 14:50:47 +0000

NOAA’s National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center calls for a 50 percent probability of a near-normal season, a 25 percent probability of an above-normal season and a 25 percent probability of a below-normal season.

NOAA Predicts Normal or Below Normal Eastern Pacific Hurricane Season

Thu, 21 May 2009 14:45:56 +0000

NOAA’s National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center announced that projected climate conditions point to a 40 percent probability of a below normal season, a 40 percent probability of a near normal season, and a 20 percent probably of an above normal season.

World’s Large Marine Ecosystems Heating Up

Wed, 20 May 2009 14:05:57 +0000

A United Nations report found that 61 of the world’s 64 large marine ecosystems show a significant increase in sea surface temperatures in the last 25 years, altering fisheries catches.

NOAA Report: Four Fish Stocks Declared Fully Rebuilt

Tue, 19 May 2009 19:49:28 +0000

NOAA’s Fisheries Service reported to Congress today that four stocks - the largest number of stocks to be declared rebuilt in a single year - have been rebuilt to allow for continued sustainable fishing.

New Web Site, PSAs Promote Boating Safety and Weather Awareness

Tue, 19 May 2009 14:07:38 +0000

NOAA's National Weather Service and the National Safe Boating Council launched a new Web site to help boaters stay safe this spring and summer.

NOAA: Fifth Warmest April for Globe

Mon, 18 May 2009 14:18:19 +0000

The combined average global land and ocean surface temperatures for April 2009 ranked fifth warmest since worldwide records began in 1880, according to NOAA's National Climatic Data Center in Asheville, N.C.

NOAA FY 2010 Budget

Mon, 11 May 2009 21:37:28 +0000

The NOAA FY 2010 Budget "blue book" Web site, which offers detailed highlights of the agency's $4.5 billion budget request and helpful one-page fact sheets, is now available online from NOAA's Budget Office.

National Tornado Experiment Begins

Mon, 11 May 2009 17:23:46 +0000

VORTEX2, the largest-ever field program to study how tornadoes form and dissipate, has hit the road. Follow live reports from NOAA's National Severe Storm Laboratory Web site.

Contractor Selected to Build GOES-R Series Satellite

Thu, 7 May 2009 16:27:29 +0000

NOAA and NASA officials announced Lockheed Martin Space Systems Co. has been selected to build two satellites for NOAA’s next generation geostationary satellite series, GOES-R.

Harbor Branch Consortium: NOAA’s Newest Cooperative Institute

Wed, 6 May 2009 19:30:44 +0000

NOAA announced the award of a new cooperative institute to focus on ocean exploration, research, and technology development for the U.S. East Coast.

Commerce Secretary Locke Extends 2008 Disaster Declaration

Thu, 30 Apr 2009 23:13:28 +0000

U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke said today he was extending the 2008 West Coast salmon disaster declaration for California and Oregon in response to expected poor salmon returns to the Sacramento River.

NOAA Announces Emergency Rule to Protect ‘Threatened’ Sea Turtles

Wed, 29 Apr 2009 16:49:55 +0000

NOAA's Fisheries Service announced a temporary rule that will require the commercial reef fish longline fleet to fish seaward of a line approximating the 50-fathom contour in the Gulf of Mexico.

Scientific Consultations under the Endangered Species Act Restored

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 19:37:54 +0000

Secretary of Commerce Gary Locke and Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar today announced that the two departments are revoking a Bush administration rule that undermined Endangered Species Act protections.

NOAA Brings Great Lakes to Google Earth

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 16:17:26 +0000

NOAA is helping Americans look beneath the surfaces of the five Great Lakes by providing Google Earth with data, including detailed three-dimensional mapping.

Groundbreaking Restoration Brings New Approach to Chesapeake Bay

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 17:17:19 +0000

This Earth Day, NOAA Administrator Jane Lubchenco visited Jug Bay to celebrate its restoration. After a decade-long effort, nearly 80 percent of the vital habitat has been restored.

Greenhouse Gases Continue to Climb

Tue, 21 Apr 2009 15:22:25 +0000

According to a preliminary analysis for NOAA’s annual greenhouse gas index, carbon dioxide and methane increased in 2008, despite economic slump.

NOAA Dedicates New Chesapeake Bay Research Vessel

Wed, 15 Apr 2009 16:14:49 +0000

NOAA christened R/V Bay Hydro II, a new state-of-the-art research vessel that will collect oceanographic data in the Chesapeake Bay region.

NOAA Commits $16 Million to Assist the Northeast Fishing Industry

Wed, 8 Apr 2009 12:57:54 +0000

NOAA announced it will allocate $16 million of its current fiscal year 2009 budget to assist the Northeast fishing industry with the transition to management of the fishery by sectors and catch shares.

NOAA Submits Proposed Recovery Plan to Congress

Tue, 7 Apr 2009 15:01:19 +0000

NOAA has submitted to Congress its proposed Recovery plan to create jobs, strengthen the economy, and restore our environment. Under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act , NOAA was provided $830 million.

Interim Rules Reduce Overfishing, Rebuild Northeast Groundfish

Mon, 6 Apr 2009 16:40:27 +0000

NOAA has announced interim fishing measures that protect the Northeast groundfish stocks most in trouble, while still allowing the fishing industry to target some healthy stocks as the fishery rebuilds.

Red River Will Crest Again in Fargo-Moorhead in Late April

Fri, 3 Apr 2009 17:41:18 +0000

Report: Flame Retardants Concern to U.S. Coastal Ecosystems

Wed, 1 Apr 2009 15:10:38 +0000

NOAA scientists report that Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers, chemicals used in commercial goods as flame retardants since the 1970s, are found in all U.S. coastal waters and the Great Lakes.

Flood Warnings for Upper Midwest

Wed, 25 Mar 2009 17:33:17 +0000

Rivers will continue rising to near or at record levels in parts of the Midwest, according to NOAA's National Weather Service. Away from rivers, over-land flooding is ongoing due to the flat terrain and frozen drainage networks.

Major Midwest Flooding Highlighted in U.S. Spring Outlook

Thu, 19 Mar 2009 16:03:36 +0000

Flooding in the upper Midwest and continued drought in the South and West are among the highlights in NOAA's National Weather Service Spring Outlook.

Flood Safety Week: March 16 - 20

Fri, 13 Mar 2009 15:51:13 +0000

Advanced planning can help protect lives and minimize property losses due to flooding. NOAA's National Weather Service and FEMA observe the fifth annual Flood Safety Awareness Week

Winter Temperatures Near Average for U.S.

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 15:14:57 +0000

Temperatures for December 2008 – February 2009 across the contiguous U.S. were near average according to a preliminary analysis by scientists at NOAA’s National Climatic Data Center in Asheville, N.C. For February, the average temperature was above the long-term average.

New Deep-Sea Coral Discovered

Mon, 9 Mar 2009 15:16:56 +0000

Scientists identified seven new species of bamboo coral discovered on a NOAA-funded mission in the deep waters of the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument.

NOAA Receives $830 Million Through Recovery Act

Tue, 3 Mar 2009 16:33:42 +0000

NOAA will receive $830 million in funds as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The agency will use the funds for projects that protect life and property and conserve and protect natural resources.

NOAA Ship to be Named to National Register of Historic Places

Wed, 18 Feb 2009 16:42:24 +0000

NOAA Ship John N. Cobb, a former fisheries research vessel, is on track to be added to the federal government’s official list of the nation's historic places worthy of preservation.

January Warmer Than Average for U.S.

Mon, 9 Feb 2009 20:49:58 +0000

Temperatures for the contiguous United States last month were slightly above the long-term average, based on records going back to 1895, according to a preliminary analysis by scientists at NOAA’s National Climatic Data Center in Asheville, N.C.

New NOAA Satellite Launched

Thu, 5 Feb 2009 23:02:52 +0000

NOAA's new polar-orbiting environmental satellite was launched from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California today to support NOAA’s efforts to forecast and monitor the environment.

NOAA Unveils New Alert System

Thu, 5 Feb 2009 16:57:57 +0000

NOAA has issued the first La Niña advisory under its new El Niño Southern Oscillation Alert System as La Niña is forecast to influence weather patterns across the United States into early spring.

NOAA Dives into Ocean in Google Earth

Mon, 2 Feb 2009 17:58:56 +0000

Google Earth today unveiled Ocean in Google Earth, a new way for online explorers to dive into the ocean’s depths.

Report: Arctic Region Underprepared for Maritime Accidents

Thu, 29 Jan 2009 16:10:56 +0000

Existing infrastructure for responding to maritime accidents in the Arctic is limited; more needs to be done to enhance emergency response capacity as Arctic sea ice declines and ship traffic increases according to a UNH/NOAA report.

Study: Climate Change Largely Irreversible

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 21:55:03 +0000

A pioneering study, led by NOAA senior scientist Susan Solomon, shows how changes in surface temperature, rainfall, and sea level are largely irreversible for more than 1,000 years after carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions are completely stopped.

NOAA: 2008 Global Temperature Ties as Eighth Warmest on Record

Fri, 16 Jan 2009 16:06:43 +0000

The year 2008 tied with 2001 as the eighth warmest year on record for the Earth, according to a preliminary analysis by NOAA’s National Climatic Data Center in Asheville, N.C.

December Cooler Than Average in U.S.

Thu, 8 Jan 2009 19:16:38 +0000

The 2008 annual temperature for the contiguous U.S. was near average, while the temperature for December was below average, based on records dating back to 1895, according to NOAA’s National Climatic Data Center in Asheville, N.C.

President Designates Three New Marine Protected Areas in Pacific

Wed, 7 Jan 2009 14:06:57 +0000

President Bush has created three new marine protected areas in the central and western Pacific Ocean, protecting nearly 200,000 square miles.

High Numbers of Right Whales Seen in Gulf of Maine

Mon, 5 Jan 2009 14:25:44 +0000

Several North Atlantic right whales have been seen in the Gulf of Maine recently, leading NOAA researchers to believe they have identified a wintering ground and potential breeding ground.

NOAA to Create Saltwater Angler Registry in 2010

Tue, 23 Dec 2008 15:28:48 +0000

NOAA's Fisheries Service released its final rule today to create a national saltwater angler registry of all marine recreational fishermen to help the nation better protect our shared marine resources.

Fourth Warmest November for Globe

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 16:45:04 +0000

This year is on track to be one of the 10 warmest years on record for the globe, based on the combined worldwide land and ocean surface average temperatures, according to a preliminary analysis by NOAA’s National Climatic Data Center in Asheville, N.C.

November Warmer Than Average in U.S.

Thu, 11 Dec 2008 19:12:05 +0000

The November 2008 temperature for the contiguous United States was warmer than the long-term average, according to NOAA’s National Climatic Data Center in Asheville, N.C.

Ships Must Slow to Protect Right Whales

Mon, 8 Dec 2008 20:31:42 +0000

Starting Dec. 9, ships in U.S. Atlantic coastal waters must slow down to protect North Atlantic right whales, one of the most endangered whales in the world.

Atlantic Hurricane Season Sets Records

Wed, 26 Nov 2008 14:59:15 +0000

The 2008 Atlantic Hurricane Season produced a record number of consecutive storms to strike the United States and ranks as one of the more active seasons in the 64 years since comprehensive records began.

NOAA-Supported Mission Discovers Historic Shipwreck

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 16:19:04 +0000

Maritime archaeologists today announced they have recently identified the wreck of the historic slave ship Trouvadore off the coast of East Caicos in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

2008-2009 U.S. Winter Weather Outlook

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 17:06:37 +0000

NOAA's Climate Prediction Center is calling for warmer-than-normal temperatures for much of the central part of the nation, and a continuation of drier-than-normal conditions across the Southeast.

Second Warmest October for Globe

Tue, 18 Nov 2008 18:33:28 +0000

The combined global land and ocean surface average temperature for October 2008 was the second warmest since records began in 1880, according to a preliminary analysis by NOAA’s National Climatic Data Center in Asheville, N.C.

“Teachers Under the Sea” Bring Marine Science to the Classroom

Fri, 7 Nov 2008 16:33:44 +0000

High school teachers prepare to take part in the 100th mission of NOAA’s Aquarius Reef Base — becoming the first teachers to live and work from the world’s only permanent undersea laboratory.

William J. Brennan Becomes Acting NOAA Administrator

Mon, 3 Nov 2008 15:02:36 +0000

William J. Brennan, Ph.D., named acting under secretary of commerce for oceans and atmosphere and acting administrator of NOAA.

SARSAT Makes 6,000th Rescue

Mon, 3 Nov 2008 13:45:36 +0000

Two people rescued from the site of their downed airplane near Concrete, Wash., pushed to 6,000 the number of people rescued in the U.S. by NOAA's SARSAT system.

Ninth Warmest September for Globe

Wed, 15 Oct 2008 13:23:45 +0000

The combined global land and ocean surface average temperature for September 2008 tied with September 2001 as the ninth warmest since records began in 1880, according to an analysis by NOAA’s National Climatic Data Center in Asheville, N.C.

New Measures to Protect Endangered North Atlantic Right Whales

Wed, 8 Oct 2008 18:37:09 +0000

NOAA has issued a regulation that implements new measures requiring large ships to reduce speeds in areas where North Atlantic Right whales feed and reproduce — reducing the risk of collisions.

President Bush Commends U.S. Ocean Action Plan Successes

Tue, 30 Sep 2008 16:45:55 +0000

President George W. Bush praised the successes of U.S. Ocean Action Plan, highlighting NOAA’s achievements in ocean conservation, and heralded the opening of the new Sant Ocean Hall at the Smithsonian Institution’s Museum of Natural History.

Pronounced Reduction in U.S. Drought

Thu, 18 Sep 2008 19:43:56 +0000

NOAA’s latest U.S. Drought Monitor shows improved drought conditions over the Plains and the Midwest, in part due to tropical systems; lingering drought exists for the interior Southeast, south-central Texas, and Calif.

Texas Coastline Photos

Wed, 17 Sep 2008 13:54:44 +0000

A collection of more than 4,000 aerial photos are now available showing the damaged Texas coastline in the wake of Hurricane Ike. This imagery was acquired by NOAA's Remote Sensing Division to support NOAA's national security and emergency response activities.

NOAA Aids with Hurricane Ike Recovery

Wed, 17 Sep 2008 17:22:02 +0000

Responders from NOAA are on the move as residents and businesses in Texas and Louisiana recover from the effects of Hurricane Ike.

Globally, Summer Temperature Was Ninth Warmest

Tue, 16 Sep 2008 14:07:23 +0000

Summer 2008, the combined global average land and ocean surface temperature was the 9th warmest on record according to NOAA’s National Climatic Data Center. Also, this August was the 10th warmest.

Localized Pollution Potentially Plays Role in Climate Change

Thu, 4 Sep 2008 17:14:14 +0000

Short-lived gases and particle pollutants - which stay in the atmosphere for just days or weeks - have a greater influence on Earth’s climate than previously thought, according to a new NOAA-led report.

NOAA Assists with Gustav Recovery Efforts

Wed, 3 Sep 2008 19:44:36 +0000

Responders from NOAA are on the move as residents and businesses in Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Texas assess the impacts of Hurricane Gustav.

NOAA Proposes Alternatives to Protect Endangered Whales

Thu, 28 Aug 2008 16:57:52 +0000

NOAA issues environmental impact statement for the Ship Strike Reduction Rule, which aims to reduce the number of endangered North Atlantic right whales injured or killed by collisions with large ships.

Life-Saving NOAA Radios in Schools

Tue, 19 Aug 2008 17:40:47 +0000

NOAA and partnering federal agencies are now distributing NOAA Public Alert Radios to preschools, Head Start programs, nonpublic schools and central offices, K-12 school district offices, and post-secondary schools. Earlier distributions delivered a radio to every public school.

Remains of 19th Century British Whaling Ship Discovered

Mon, 18 Aug 2008 12:27:14 +0000

NOAA archaeologists discover remains of the 1837 British whaling ship Gledstanes within the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument.

“America's Ship for Ocean Exploration”

Wed, 13 Aug 2008 20:00:24 +0000

Okeanos Explorer - the first federal ship dedicated solely to exploring the ocean - has been commissioned. The ship enables on shore scientists to participate in real-time exploration while viewing live images and other ocean data.

Fay Downgraded to Tropical Depression

Fri, 22 Aug 2008 12:07:28 +0000

View the latest forecasts from NOAA's National Hurricane Center and National Weather Service as Fay brings heavy rain to parts of Mississippi and Louisiana.

Tracking Tropical Storm Fay

Mon, 18 Aug 2008 11:44:43 +0000

Check with NOAA's National Hurricane Center for the latest forecast for Fay in the western Atlantic Ocean.

Increased Chances for Above-Normal Atlantic Hurricane Season

Thu, 7 Aug 2008 14:50:25 +0000

NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center has increased the likelihood of an above-normal hurricane season and raised the total number of named storms and hurricanes that may form.

Bush Administration More Than Quadruples 2009 Hurricane Forecast Improvement Budget Request to $17 Million

Mon, 11 Aug 2008 18:47:14 +0000

The Bush Administration is bolstering funding for hurricane research and forecast improvements by $13 million to accelerate NOAA scientists’ ability to more accurately forecast tropical storms, hurricane intensity, the paths of these storms, and related storm surges.

NOAA Studies Marine Mammals’ Reaction to Sonar

Wed, 6 Aug 2008 18:45:03 +0000

NOAA's Fisheries Service, in partnership with top international scientists and the U.S. Navy, has completed a pioneering research effort in Hawaii to measure the biology and behavior of some of the most poorly understood whales on Earth.

Summer 2008 Marked by Deadly Rip Currents

Wed, 30 Jul 2008 18:07:45 +0000

Each year, about a hundred people drown in rip currents. NOAA offers valuable advice to help you avoid and/or survive a rip current.

Edouard Weakening Over Texas

Tue, 5 Aug 2008 17:57:09 +0000

Removed from its energy source - the warm Gulf of Mexico waters - Edouard will continue weakening as it moves across northern Texas. Though Edouard's winds will weaken, locally heavy rain will fall along its path.

NOAA Responds to New Orleans Barge Collision Oil Spill

Thu, 24 Jul 2008 21:36:15 +0000

NOAA's Office of Response and Restoration and the NOAA National Weather Service are on scene in New Orleans aiding in the response to the estimated 419,000 gallons of #6 fuel oil spilled the morning of July 23.

Hurricane Dolly Offers Silver Lining To Some Drought Stricken Texas Counties

Mon, 28 Jul 2008 12:04:33 +0000

The remnants of Hurricane Dolly have provided a mixed bag of damaging floods and welcome drought relief for residents of south Texas.

NOAA Rapid Response Helps Ensure Safe Navigation

Fri, 25 Jul 2008 17:27:40 +0000

NOAA's Office of Coast Survey's Navigational Response Teams are scanning the seabed of the Brownsville shipping channel for debris and other navigation hazards in the wake of Hurricane Dolly to ensure the safe passage of vessels in and out of the port.

Weakening Dolly Moves Into Mexico

Fri, 25 Jul 2008 15:34:28 +0000

Rain and the threat of flooding will diminish across Southwest Texas as the remnants of Tropical Depression Dolly move westward across northern Mexico. NOAAWatch has the latest storm information.

Warm June for Globe

Wed, 16 Jul 2008 14:49:44 +0000

Last month, the average global temperature was the 8th warmest June on record according to NOAA’s National Climatic Data Center. Also, globally it was the ninth warmest January – June period on record.

NOAA Aircraft Get Bird’s Eye View of Shrinking Greenland Ice Sheet

Tue, 15 Jul 2008 15:07:37 +0000

Low-flying unmanned aircraft are closely observing the melting of the Greenland Ice Sheet. Data collected will help scientists determine whether the ice sheet’s melt rate will accelerate in the future.

Record-Setting “Dead Zone” Predicted

Tue, 15 Jul 2008 17:33:33 +0000

Scientists expect this summer's Gulf of Mexico “dead zone” off the coast of Louisiana and Texas could be the largest on record, reaching the size of New Jersey.

June: Warm with Wet and Dry Extremes

Wed, 9 Jul 2008 19:20:33 +0000

Last month was the 27th warmest June for the contiguous United States, according to NOAA’s National Climatic Data Center. Flooding rainfall in the Midwest during the month countered worsening drought in the Southeast, southern Plains and West.

Tracking Tropical Storm Bertha

Mon, 14 Jul 2008 14:19:22 +0000

Check with NOAA's National Hurricane Center for the latest forecast for Bertha in the western Atlantic Ocean.

Extreme Weather To Become More Common

Thu, 19 Jun 2008 17:33:53 +0000

New report highlights the likely changes in extreme weather and climate conditions under ongoing climate change.

Lightning Safety Awareness Week: June 22-28

Mon, 23 Jun 2008 14:41:35 +0000

Learn how to keep yourself safe during thunderstorms. If you hear thunder, you are within striking distance of the storm, so “when thunder roars, go indoors.”

Holiday Weekend Weather

Tue, 1 Jul 2008 16:23:45 +0000

Get your forecast through the Fourth of July holiday weekend from NOAA's National Weather Service.

Latest Midwest Flooding Information

Mon, 16 Jun 2008 19:36:14 +0000

View the current and projected river levels across the flooded Midwest as predicted by NOAA's National Weather Service.

Tornado Season Could Be Record

Wed, 4 Jun 2008 14:57:16 +0000

This year may set records for tornadoes and tornado-related deaths. Only halfway through the season and there have already been 111 tornado-related deaths, making it the deadliest tornado season since 1998.

It Was A Cool Spring for USA

Fri, 6 Jun 2008 20:23:33 +0000

Temperatures from March to May were the 36th coolest on record for the contiguous United States, according to NOAA’s National Climatic Data Center. May alone was the 34th coolest on record.

NOAA Primed for Summer Distress Calls

Wed, 4 Jun 2008 14:56:36 +0000

NOAA satellites are primed for an inevitable summer spike in distress signals from emergency locator beacons. Through May, 139 people have been rescued in the U.S. this year.

Hurricane Preparedness

Mon, 2 Jun 2008 17:25:07 +0000

Reduce the effects of a hurricane disaster. Learn what to do before, during and after a storm at NOAA’s Hurricane Preparedness Web site.

Severe Storms for Central USA

Thu, 5 Jun 2008 13:55:21 +0000

NOAA's National Weather Service is forecasting severe weather through this weekend in parts of the central U.S. Be sure to have a NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards for life-saving warning information.

“Acidified” Ocean Water Found on Continental Shelf

Thu, 22 May 2008 18:42:56 +0000

Corrosive water caused by the ocean’s absorption of carbon dioxide was found less than 20 miles off the west coast of North America. “Acidification” of ocean water could have far-reaching effects on the health of our near-shore environment and the ecosystems.

New Study Finds Most North Pacific Humpback Whale Populations Rebounding

Thu, 22 May 2008 13:42:31 +0000

The number of humpback whales in the North Pacific Ocean has increased since international and federal protections were enacted in the 1960s and 70s, according to a new report funded primarily by NOAA and conducted by more than 400 whale researchers throughout the Pacific region.

NOAA Proposes Rule to Prevent Commercial Harvesting of Krill

Wed, 21 May 2008 21:17:50 +0000

NOAA’s Fisheries Service issued a proposed rule in the Federal Register to prohibit the future harvesting of krill between three and 200 miles of the coasts of California, Oregon, and Washington. Krill are a small shrimp-like crustacean and a key source of nutrition in the marine food web.

Government Lab Selected to Develop Key NPOESS Sensor

Wed, 21 May 2008 18:36:13 +0000

The NPOESS Integrated Program Office has selected the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory to develop the microwave imager/sounder sensor planned for the next generation of polar-orbiting weather satellites. The sensor will bring improved data and imagery, paving the way for better weather forecasts, severe-weather monitoring and climate change assessment.

Jason-2 Satellite Data to Help NOAA Track Global Sea Level

Tue, 20 May 2008 15:37:54 +0000

A new satellite set to launch next month will monitor the rate of sea-level rise and help measure the strength of hurricanes, according to a leading NOAA scientist. At a press briefing today, Laury Miller, chief of NOAA's Laboratory for Satellite Altimetry, said NOAA will use data from the Jason-2/Ocean Surface Topography Mission (OSTM) to extend a 15-year record from two earlier altimeter missions that currently show sea level is rising at a rate of 3.2 mm/year — nearly twice as fast as the previous 100 years. “This rate, if it continues unchanged over the coming decades, will have a large impact on coastal regions, in terms of erosion and flooding,” said Miller.

NOAA to Honor National Leaders in Sustainable Fisheries

Tue, 20 May 2008 14:32:07 +0000

NOAA's Fisheries Service announced today that it will honor seven people and two organizations for their efforts to enhance the understanding, protection, and sustainable use of U.S. ocean resources. This recognition is part of the agency’s third annual Sustainable Fisheries Leadership Awards program. NOAA’s leaders will present the awards at a ceremony in Washington, D.C., on June 2.

NOAA Expects Slightly Below Average Central Pacific Hurricane Season

Mon, 19 May 2008 20:05:00 +0000

NOAA’s Central Pacific Hurricane Center in Honolulu expects three to four tropical cyclones in the central Pacific basin in 2008, a slightly below average season.

New NOAA Ocean Observing System in Pascagoula Aids Mariners; Keeps Shipping Safe

Thu, 15 May 2008 14:03:55 +0000

Mariners can now get free real-time information on water and wind conditions for the Port of Pascagoula, Miss., from a new NOAA ocean observing system at the port.

Monitor Sanctuary in Good Health Overall, but Historic Shipwreck Still Faces Threats

Wed, 14 May 2008 14:03:15 +0000

The natural resources of the Monitor National Marine Sanctuary off the North Carolina coast are in good condition overall, but the wreck of the Civil War ironclad encompassed by the site is at risk from human activity and natural deterioration, according to a new NOAA report.

Dean, Felix, and Noel Retired From List of Storm Names

Tue, 13 May 2008 18:43:37 +0000

The names Dean, Felix, and Noel, three of the most devastating storms of the 2007 Atlantic hurricane season, were retired by members of the 30th Session of the World Meteorological Organization's Regional Association IV Hurricane Committee during its annual meeting in Orlando, Fla.

NOAA Offers Grants for California Schools to Become Ocean Guardians

Tue, 13 May 2008 16:02:48 +0000

NOAA’s Office of National Marine Sanctuaries announced today it is offering “Ocean Guardian” grants of up to $6,000 to a number of California schools whose students create a school or community-based conservation project that protects their local watershed and the ocean.

Navy Technology to Help NOAA Find Sunken History

Tue, 13 May 2008 17:13:34 +0000

U.S. Navy mine-hunting technology has a potential dual use to help NOAA find historic shipwrecks by allowing maritime archaeologists to “see” below the seafloor. With greater resolutions and access to deeper depths, maritime archaeologists can better understand submerged cultural and historic resources without disturbing those sites.

Students Selected for 2008 NOAA Ernest F. Hollings Scholarships

Mon, 12 May 2008 14:05:55 +0000

NOAA has awarded scholarships to 111 students from 36 states through the agency’s 2008 Ernest F. Hollings Undergraduate Scholarship program.

Draft Management Plan for NOAA’s Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary Released for Public Review and Comment

Tue, 6 May 2008 15:22:05 +0000

NOAA today released a comprehensive draft management plan and environmental assessment for Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary for public review and comment. Based on several years of scientific study and extensive public input, the plan recommends specific actions to address issues impacting the sanctuary.

NOAA's Fisheries Service Issues Far-Reaching Plans for Protecting Northwest Salmon

Mon, 5 May 2008 18:08:00 +0000

NOAA's Fisheries Service, the federal agency charged with protecting Northwest salmon listed under the Endangered Species Act, released today a trio of biological opinions that provide comprehensive, far-reaching plans for the protected salmon species.

Key Climate Sensor Restored to NPOESS

Fri, 2 May 2008 18:07:20 +0000

A sensor considered critical in monitoring global climate will be restored to the first satellite scheduled to fly in the National Polar-Orbiting Operational Environmental Satellite System (NPOESS) top officials from NOAA, NASA, and the Air Force said yesterday.

Arctic, Antarctic: Poles Apart in Climate Response

Fri, 2 May 2008 16:04:20 +0000

While the Arctic and the Antarctic experience similar greenhouse gas levels and solar radiation, each region responds in a dramatically different way, especially in temperature and loss of sea ice, says an international team of scientists that includes a NOAA oceanographer. While the Arctic is warming, most of Antarctica is not, largely because of the ozone hole, but projections indicate that is likely to change.

“Fishery Failure” Declared for West Coast Salmon Fishery

Thu, 1 May 2008 16:37:43 +0000

Secretary of Commerce Carlos M. Gutierrez today declared a commercial fishery failure for the West Coast salmon fishery due to historically low salmon returns. Also today, NOAA’s Fisheries Service issued regulations to close or severely limit recreational and commercial salmon fishing in the area.

NOAA Begins Ocean Data Integration Effort

Wed, 30 Apr 2008 14:26:52 +0000

NOAA has launched a major initiative to link together a wealth of ocean observation data from a wide variety of federal and non-federal sources.

Remarks by VADM Conrad C. Lautenbacher, Jr., US Navy (Ret.) to Maryland Space Business Roundtable [PDF]

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 17:21:33 +0000

Remarks by VADM Conrad C. Lautenbacher, Jr., US Navy (Ret.) to the Maryland Space Business Roundtable; April 29, 2008.

NOAA Recognizes Arlington County, Va., as StormReady®

Mon, 28 Apr 2008 18:31:23 +0000

Arlington County, Va., has become the fifth Washington, D.C., metropolitan county to become StormReady, making more than 63 percent of metro Washington D.C. StormReady.

NOAA Employing New Tools to Accurately Measure Climate Change

Thu, 24 Apr 2008 13:07:11 +0000

NOAA today announced it will install the last nine of the 114 stations as part of its new, high-tech climate monitoring network. The stations track national average changes in temperature and precipitation trends. The U.S. Climate Reference Network (CRN) is on schedule to activate these final stations by the end of the summer.

Carbon Dioxide, Methane Rise Sharply in 2007

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 16:28:23 +0000

Last year alone global levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide, the primary driver of global climate change, increased by 0.6 percent, or 19 billion tons. Additionally methane rose by 27 million tons after nearly a decade with little or no increase.

Draft Monument Management Plan Released For Public Review and Comment

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 15:37:35 +0000

In the spirit of Earth Day, Hawai‘i Governor Linda Lingle, Deputy Secretary of the Interior Lynn Scarlett, and retired Navy Vice Adm. Conrad C. Lautenbacher, Ph.D., undersecretary of commerce for oceans and atmosphere and NOAA administrator, gathered at Washington Place today to announce the availability of the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument Draft Management Plan and associated Environmental Assessment for public review and comment.

NOAA’s Fisheries Service Extends Decision on Cook Inlet Beluga Whale Listing

Mon, 21 Apr 2008 19:10:18 +0000

NOAA’s Fisheries Service will extend the final decision on listing Cook Inlet beluga whales up to six months, which will give NOAA researchers time to prepare a 2008 population abundance estimate before the agency decides whether or not to list the population under the Endangered Species Act.

NOAA’s Fisheries Service Outlines Measures to Prevent Overfishing of Sandbar and Other Sharks

Thu, 17 Apr 2008 20:10:43 +0000

NOAA’s Fisheries Service has outlined new measures to prevent overfishing and rebuild the number of sandbar and other shark species. The public may comment on the final environmental impact statement (FEIS) until May 19.

NOAA and Partners Offer Unprecedented Online Collection of Scientific Research from Northern California Marine Sanctuaries

Wed, 16 Apr 2008 19:29:03 +0000

NOAA and partners have launched a comprehensive, user-friendly online resource featuring the latest scientific research conducted within three West Coast national marine sanctuaries. The Web site, http://sanctuarysimon.org, integrates scientific monitoring data from Gulf of the Farallones, Cordell Bank and Monterey Bay national marine sanctuaries — three contiguous, federally protected marine areas off California's northern central coast.

International Experts to Meet in Florida Keys to Discuss Climate Change Effects on Coral Reefs

Wed, 16 Apr 2008 18:51:58 +0000

Coral experts from the Caribbean, Central and South America, and Florida will gather at a NOAA-hosted workshop this month to share strategies for mitigating and managing the impacts of coral bleaching and climate change on reefs in the Caribbean and other regions.

NOAA’s Fisheries Service Says Herring in Lynn Canal Not Endangered

Tue, 15 Apr 2008 17:36:29 +0000

Herring in Lynn Canal, near Juneau, Alaska, should not be listed as threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act since they are similar to other herring populations in the area that are being considered for listing, according to NOAA’s Fisheries Service.

Take a Virtual Tour of the National Hurricane Center

Wed, 9 Apr 2008 13:47:32 +0000

A tour of the NOAA National Hurricane Center is now as close as your computer with the inauguration of a new virtual online tour of the famous forecast center. The Web site, http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/nhctour.shtml, provides panoramic views of different areas of the facility, accompanied by audio and text descriptions.

NOAA Invests Record Funding to Clean Up Miami’s Biscayne Bay

Tue, 8 Apr 2008 14:43:47 +0000

NOAA announced today that it will invest $200,000 in Florida’s Miami-Dade County to expand the scope of Baynanza, an annual celebration and cleanup of Biscayne Bay. The funding — the largest NOAA contribution ever made towards a community marine debris cleanup project — will support the large-scale removal of marine debris, such as abandoned vessels, docks and pilings, and other large items that cannot be bagged by volunteers.

NOAA Aircraft to Probe Arctic Pollution

Mon, 7 Apr 2008 16:47:32 +0000

NOAA scientists are now flying through springtime Arctic pollution to find out why the region is warming — and summertime sea ice is melting — faster than predicted. Some 35 NOAA researchers are gathering with government and university colleagues in Fairbanks, Alaska, to conduct the study through April 23.

Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument Designated a Particularly Sensitive Sea Area

Fri, 4 Apr 2008 17:46:50 +0000

The fragile and unique marine ecosystems of the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands encompassed by the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument will receive additional protection under a new internationally recognized designation announced today by NOAA.

NOAA’s Fisheries Service Seeks Comments on Loggerhead Sea Turtles

Wed, 2 Apr 2008 14:02:29 +0000

NOAA’s Fisheries Service has determined that a petition to reclassify loggerhead turtles in the western North Atlantic Ocean as a distinct population segment with endangered status may be warranted, and is seeking comments on the petition action. Currently, loggerhead turtles are listed as a threatened species throughout the world.

NOAA Scientists Train African Team to be Fisheries Observers

Wed, 2 Apr 2008 14:01:20 +0000

A team of NOAA scientists traveled to Ghana this week to teach 40 government officials and university students to become trained marine resource observers, able to provide scientific data needed to manage their fish stocks.

NOAA Debuts "Nautical Charts" As New Elementary Multimedia Educational Tool

Fri, 28 Mar 2008 17:40:49 +0000

NOAA's National Ocean Service is launching today a new multimedia elementary educational program, Nautical Charts, at the annual meeting of the National Science Teachers Association in Boston.

NOAA Studies Pollutants in Ice-Free Region of Arctic

Fri, 28 Mar 2008 13:52:50 +0000

A field study now under way is looking at the pollutants within the Arctic atmosphere – called “Arctic Haze” – including their sources, concentrations, and climate impact, in an ice-free region.

NOAA Ship Rude to Be Retired

Tue, 25 Mar 2008 15:11:02 +0000

A 90-ft. ship that helped bring closure to a grieving nation after two aircraft tragedies — the loss of TWA flight 800 in July 1996 and John F. Kennedy Jr.’s aircraft in July 1999 — will be decommissioned Mar. 25 after 41 years of service.

NOAA to Study Ice Seals for Possible Listing Under Endangered Species Act

Wed, 26 Mar 2008 16:32:54 +0000

NOAA’s Fisheries Service has accepted a petition from a California environmental group seeking protection under the Endangered Species Act for an ice seal called the “ribbon seal” that inhabits Alaska’s Bering Sea.

— Ribbon Seal Notice Filed with the Federal Register [PDF]

Wed, 26 Mar 2008 18:10:59 +0000

Commerce Department Appoints Members to Marine Protected Areas Federal Advisory Committee

Fri, 21 Mar 2008 17:47:46 +0000

The Department of Commerce, in consultation with the Department of the Interior, has appointed 13 new members to the Marine Protected Areas Federal Advisory Committee. The agency has also reappointed one member to a new two-year term.

Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument Considered For World Heritage Site Designation

Fri, 21 Mar 2008 15:18:12 +0000

Secretary of Interior Dirk Kempthorne has announced that the crown jewel of NOAA's National Marine Sanctuary System, Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument, is one of two sites he is considering to officially nominate for inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

NOAA’s Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary Opens Public Comment Period on Research Area Concept

Thu, 20 Mar 2008 15:54:39 +0000

The public is invited to provide input on the creation of a special research area in NOAA’s Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary during a comment period open through April 21. If established, the research area would dedicate a portion of the sanctuary’s waters to scientific investigation and exploration.

NOAA: Coolest Winter Since 2001 for U.S., Globe

Thu, 20 Mar 2008 13:10:48 +0000

The average temperature across both the contiguous U.S. and the globe during climatological winter (December 2007-February 2008) was the coolest since 2001, according to scientists at NOAA’s National Climatic Data Center in Asheville, N.C. In terms of winter precipitation, Pacific storms, bringing heavy precipitation to large parts of the West, produced high snowpack that will provide welcome runoff this spring.

NOAA to Test Humboldt County Tsunami Warning System on Mar. 26

Wed, 19 Mar 2008 20:31:15 +0000

NOAA’s National Weather Service, in collaboration with the California Office of Emergency Services and the Humboldt County Sheriff’s office, will conduct a test of the tsunami warning system in coastal Humboldt County, Calif., between 10:15 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. Pacific Daylight Time on Wed., Mar. 26.

NOAA Issues New Land Cover Assessment Showing Increasing U.S. Coastal Development

Mon, 17 Mar 2008 18:19:35 +0000

A NOAA survey of land use along U.S. coasts shows that 53 percent of the new development between 1996 and 2001 occurred along the Southeastern U.S. coast between Texas and North Carolina.

NOAA Fisheries Service Agrees to Review Petition to Protect Smelt

Wed, 12 Mar 2008 20:01:31 +0000

NOAA's Fisheries Service is formally accepting a petition from the Cowlitz Indian Tribe to list eulachon (smelt) populations in Washington, Oregon and California for protection under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). The tribe’s petition describes severe declines in smelt runs along the entire Pacific Coast, with possible local extinctions in California and Oregon

NOAA Considers Case to Protect Five Puget Sound Rockfish Species

Wed, 12 Mar 2008 15:23:43 +0000

NOAA’s Fisheries Service is assembling a team of biologists to examine the decline of five Rockfish specifies in the Puget Sound and determine if it should formally propose listings under the Endangered Species Act. The assessment follows the acceptance of a petition filed by a Washington citizen.

NOAA to Close NJ Tautog Fishery April 1

Tue, 11 Mar 2008 19:50:19 +0000

NOAA’s Fisheries Service found that the State of New Jersey has failed to implement measures necessary to fulfill its responsibilities under the tautog interstate fishery management plan which are crucial for conservation of the salt water fish. As a result, NOAA will close New Jersey’s commercial and recreational fishery for tautog on April 1.

NOAA’s Gulf of the Farallones National Marine Sanctuary Recognizes Student Scientist for “Fishy” Science Project

Tue, 11 Mar 2008 13:48:32 +0000

NOAA’s Gulf of the Farallones National Marine Sanctuary has awarded the Farallones Young Marine Scientist Award to seventh-grade student Noe Manley for her entry which compared a fish’s size to its breathing rate in the 26th annual San Francisco Middle School Science Fair.

Hurricane Forecasters Bring Preparedness Message to Mexico and Caribbean

Mon, 10 Mar 2008 15:51:05 +0000

NOAA and the U.S. Air Force Reserve will host a series of public events the week of March 23rd in five coastal communities in Mexico and the Caribbean to urge residents to prepare for the upcoming hurricane season.

In New Effort, U.S. Army Divers Help NOAA National Marine Sanctuaries Remove Marine Debris and Support Fish Research

Thu, 6 Mar 2008 21:36:10 +0000

NOAA’s Office of National Marine Sanctuaries and the U.S. Army Dive Company are joining forces this month to repair buoy moorings, remove trash from dive sites, and install listening devices to track fish in national marine sanctuaries off Florida and Georgia.

Changes in Ocean Conditions in Sargasso Sea Potential Cause for Decline in Eel Fishery

Thu, 6 Mar 2008 20:46:00 +0000

American eels are fast disappearing from restaurant menus as stocks have declined sharply across the North Atlantic. While the reasons for the eel decline remain as mysterious as its long migrations, a recent study by a NOAA scientist and colleagues in Japan and the United Kingdom says shifts in ocean-atmosphere conditions may be a primary factor in declining reproduction and survival rates.

Rare White Killer Whale Spotted in Alaskan Waters From NOAA Ship Oscar Dyson

Thu, 6 Mar 2008 20:23:40 +0000

Scientists aboard the NOAA research vessel Oscar Dyson in the North Pacific have sighted a creature of great rarity and even myth: a white whale.

NOAA’s Fisheries Service Releases New Steller Sea Lion Recovery Plan

Wed, 5 Mar 2008 19:13:30 +0000

NOAA’s Fisheries Service has published its new Steller Sea Lion Recovery Plan to help restore the endangered population in western Alaska and provide further improvements to the threatened population across eastern Alaska.

Unfavorable Ocean Conditions Likely Cause of Low Salmon Returns Along West Coast in 2007

Mon, 3 Mar 2008 20:56:01 +0000

NOAA scientists are reviewing unusual environmental conditions in the Pacific Ocean as the likely culprit for the dramatically low returns of Chinook and coho salmon to rivers and streams along the West Coast of the United States last year.

Specialized Surface Wind Instruments Fly Onboard Nation’s Hurricane Hunter Fleet

Fri, 29 Feb 2008 16:21:19 +0000

For the first time, America’s entire fleet of aircraft that fly through hurricanes now have instruments that measure surface winds, giving forecasters at NOAA’s National Hurricane Center a better view of the intensity and the size of these powerful storm systems.

NOAA Helps Nat’l Coral Reef Institute to Grow Coral in Laboratory to Restore Damaged Reefs

Thu, 28 Feb 2008 22:21:40 +0000

Scientists at the National Coral Reef Institute are currently growing more than 400 corals from the larval stage as part of NOAA-funded research, and will transplant them to restore damaged coral reefs. "NOAA strongly supports research that will help managers develop new tools to address coral restoration," said retired Navy Vice Adm. Conrad C. Lautenbacher, Ph.D., under secretary of commerce for oceans and atmosphere and NOAA administrator. "In this Year of the Reef, such innovative approaches may provide a new way forward to protecting these valuable resources."

NOAA, World Bank Join to Help Manage Water and Coastal Resources in Latin America

Thu, 28 Feb 2008 19:03:02 +0000

NOAA and the World Bank today announced that they have signed an agreement to work together to help developing nations manage water resources, combat drought, and measure changes in climate.

Innovative Technology to Bring NOAA Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary to Classrooms Nationwide Mar. 2-7

Wed, 27 Feb 2008 21:04:18 +0000

NOAA's National Marine Sanctuary Program will use innovative Internet and satellite technology to transport students across the country to a scientific expedition in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. The experience, which will feature the use of broadcasts from autonomous underwater vehicles, will be accessible on the Internet and telecast to a network of partner Boys and Girls Clubs across the nation via satellite from Mar. 2–7.

NOAA’s Gulf of the Farallones National Marine Sanctuary Seeks Citizen Stewards for Beach Watch Program

Mon, 25 Feb 2008 19:35:52 +0000

NOAA’s Gulf of the Farallones National Marine Sanctuary is now recruiting volunteers for its Beach Watch shoreline monitoring program, which played a key role in the response to the 2007 Cosco Busan oil spill. Orientations and training will be held beginning this spring at several San Francisco Bay Area locations.

Volunteers Count Whales in NOAA’s Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary

Mon, 25 Feb 2008 16:38:11 +0000

More than 700 volunteers gathered data from the shores of Oahu, Kauai, the Big Island, and Kahoolawe for Saturday’s annual Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary Ocean Count.

NOAA Partners with New Shellfish Research Institute to Examine Ecological Effects of Growing Shellfish

Fri, 22 Feb 2008 18:41:13 +0000

NOAA’s Milford Laboratory and the newly formed East Coast Shellfish Growers Research Institute have teamed up to study how growing and harvesting shellfish will affect the marine ecosystem. The partnership reaffirms the Bush Administration's support for a robust and healthy aquaculture industry, a focal point of President Bush's Ocean Action Plan.

Increased Hurricane Losses Due to More People, Wealth Along Coastlines, Not Stronger Storms, New Study Says

Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:40:33 +0000

A team of scientists have found that the economic damages from hurricanes have increased in the U.S. over time due to greater population, infrastructure, and wealth on the U.S. coastlines, and not to any spike in the number or intensity of hurricanes.

Southern Ocean Cruise to Probe Climate-Relevant Gases

Thu, 21 Feb 2008 19:19:44 +0000

This month more than 30 scientists will embark on a research cruise to the Southern Ocean, which surrounds Antarctica, where they will be battling nature’s elements to study how gases important to climate change move between the atmosphere and the ocean under high winds and seas.

NOAA Announces Winners of Coastal and Ocean Management Awards

Wed, 20 Feb 2008 18:21:42 +0000

NOAA has selected the recipients of the 2008 Walter B. Jones Awards and NOAA Awards for Excellence in Coastal and Ocean Management. These biennial awards recognize coastal stewards, graduate students, state and local government, and non-governmental organizations for their outstanding efforts in coastal and ocean management.

Oregon Researchers Study Widespread Areas of Low Oxygen off Northwest Coast

Fri, 15 Feb 2008 16:25:50 +0000

A team of scientists studying the California Current – a slow-moving mass of cold water that travels south along the coast from British Columbia to Baja California – are seeing increasing areas of water off Washington and Oregon with little or no oxygen, possibly resulting in the deaths of marine animals that cannot leave the low-oxygen areas.

January 2008: Cool and Wet West Contrasts a Warm Northeast

Thu, 14 Feb 2008 18:57:25 +0000

The average temperature across the contiguous U.S. during January 2008 was near average (ranking the 49th coolest) and the 31st warmest on record globally, according to an analysis by NOAA’s National Climatic Data Center in Asheville, N.C. Temperatures throughout most of the western U.S. were cooler than average and warmer than normal in the Northeast.

NOAA and Shell Oil Company Launch Enhanced Ocean Observations Project in Gulf of Mexico

Wed, 13 Feb 2008 19:40:10 +0000

NOAA and the Shell Oil Company have signed a cooperative agreement to place meteorological and oceanographic observation sensors on seven Shell oil platforms in the Gulf of Mexico. Once installed, the suite of observation equipment will become a vital component of the Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS), providing valuable data for use in hurricane research, forecasting, and coastal resource management.

NOAA, California Resources Agency Honored for “Thank You Ocean” Campaign

Wed, 13 Feb 2008 15:14:02 +0000

The California Resources Agency and NOAA National Marine Sanctuary Program have been honored for their joint “Thank You Ocean” campaign, which encourages Californians to learn about and respect the ocean.

NOAA Names Kyger to Manage Nation’s Climate and Weather Supercomputer

Wed, 13 Feb 2008 15:12:30 +0000

Ben Kyger has been selected to manage the day-to-day operations of the nation’s weather and climate supercomputers that give federal, private and broadcast meteorologists the latest forecasts and models for national weather, daily air quality, U.S. hazards assessments, drought, hurricane, and seasonal outlooks.

NOAA “Hurricane Hunter” Flies into Pacific Winter Storms Out of Oregon

Mon, 11 Feb 2008 21:29:02 +0000

In an effort to improve forecasts released 12 and 72 hours before a winter storm, NOAA is flying its WP-3D “hurricane hunter” aircraft into severe weather over the Pacific Ocean from a temporary base in Portland, Ore. The aircraft is acquiring atmospheric data from severe winter storms originating over the Pacific Ocean that will affect the continental United States.

NOAA Names Balsiger Acting Director for National Marine Fisheries Service

Mon, 11 Feb 2008 21:00:37 +0000

James W. Balsiger has been appointed as acting assistant administrator for NOAA’s National Marine Fisheries Service, directing federal scientists and regulators responsible for managing commercial and recreational ocean fishing and the protection of marine mammals, sea turtles and their habitat.

NOAA Proposes Critical Habitat for Threatened Elkhorn and Staghorn Corals

Thu, 7 Feb 2008 15:12:40 +0000

Elkhorn and staghorn corals, listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act in May 2006, will benefit from the designation of newly proposed critical habitat. NOAA is seeking public comment on its proposal, which identifies approximately 4,931 square miles of marine habitat in Florida, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands as critical habitat for the threatened corals – a requirement of the ESA.

NOAA’s Fisheries Service Lists Oregon Coast Coho for Federal Protection

Tue, 5 Feb 2008 16:16:52 +0000

NOAA's Fisheries Service will list Oregon coast coho as a threatened species under the federal Endangered Species Act.

New NOAA Weather Radio Transmitter in Idaho Increases Coverage Area

Tue, 5 Feb 2008 16:15:59 +0000

Residents and visitors in southeast central Idaho now have immediate access to weather information thanks to a new NOAA Weather Radio-All Hazards transmitter, recently installed at Mt. Baldy near Salmon, Idaho.

NOAA Cautions Public to Avoid Seal Pups on California Beaches

Thu, 31 Jan 2008 17:22:51 +0000

NOAA’s Gulf of the Farallones National Marine Sanctuary advises beachgoers against interacting with any seal pups they may find on the beach. Newborn harbor seal pups, born in late winter and spring, could suffer permanent harm if someone not licensed in marine mammal rescue were to move them.

Veteran Research Pilot to Head NOAA’s Aviation Weather Center

Wed, 30 Jan 2008 17:05:18 +0000

NOAA has named Robert Maxson director of the Aviation Weather Center in Kansas City, the nation’s primary source of weather information for domestic and international flights. Maxson will leave his post as a research pilot with the National Science Foundation in Boulder, Colo. and begin his new duties at NOAA on Feb. 4.

Volunteers Count Whales in NOAA’s Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary

Mon, 28 Jan 2008 18:55:21 +0000

More than 600 volunteers gathered data from the shores of Oahu, Kauai, the Big Island, and Kahoolawe for Saturday’s annual Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary Ocean Count on Jan. 26.

NOAA’s Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary Extends Deadline for Applications for Advisory Council

Mon, 28 Jan 2008 16:02:15 +0000

NOAA’s Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary has extended the deadline to Feb. 10 for applications for the tourism alternate and Chumash Community member and alternate positions on its advisory council.

Veteran Marine Safety Expert to Head NOAA Office of Response and Restoration

Tue, 22 Jan 2008 21:36:18 +0000

David Westerholm, former chief of the U.S. Coast Guard’s Office of Response, has been named the new director of NOAA's Office of Response and Restoration.

NOAA Administrator Expresses Concern over Satellite Contractor Delay

Tue, 22 Jan 2008 19:25:16 +0000

NOAA’s top official today expressed concern that a contractor’s slow development of a critical new sensor will delay its delivery for a scheduled launch of a precursor mission for the National Polar-Orbiting Environmental Satellite System (NPOESS).

Warmer Ocean Could Reduce Number of Atlantic Hurricane Landfalls

Tue, 22 Jan 2008 18:33:35 +0000

A warming global ocean — influencing the winds that shear off the tops of developing storms — could mean fewer Atlantic hurricanes striking the United States according to new findings by NOAA climate scientists.

NOAA Funds $3.8 Million, Five-Year Project to Study, Manage Saginaw Bay Ecosystem

Fri, 18 Jan 2008 22:31:31 +0000

NOAA has awarded a regional consortium of Great Lakes area universities and research organizations $760,000 for the first year of a five-year, $3.8 million pilot project to develop a new approach to analyzing and managing the cumulative effects of climate change, land use, invasive species, and other environmental stressors on Saginaw Bay and its surrounding ecosystem.

Former Gray’s Reef Sanctuary Research Vessel Has Second Life as Home to Sea Creatures

Thu, 17 Jan 2008 21:08:51 +0000

A former Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary research ship sunk last year off the Georgia coast as an artificial reef is now home to a diverse array of marine fish and invertebrates after only four months on the bottom, according to NOAA scientists.

NOAA Considers Ways to Handle Sea Lions That Threaten Protected Salmon

Thu, 17 Jan 2008 19:57:51 +0000

NOAA’s Fisheries Service is asking for public comment as it considers four alternatives to deter California sea lions from eating imperiled salmon and steelhead that congregate below the Bonneville Dam on the lower Columbia River as they head upriver to spawn.

Critically Endangered Porpoise is Focus of New Research Report

Thu, 17 Jan 2008 15:41:32 +0000

An international research team, including biologists from NOAA’s Fisheries Service, reported in the scientific journal Conservation Biology, that the estimated population of vaquita, a porpoise found in the Gulf of California, is likely two years away from reaching such low levels that their rate to extinction will increase and possibly be irreversible.

New NOAA Maps Show Big Island Has Most Live Coral of Main Hawaiian Islands

Wed, 16 Jan 2008 20:21:12 +0000

New coral reef maps released by NOAA reveal that the Big Island of Hawaii has the highest percentage of live coral of the main Hawaiian islands.

Fishermen Will Use New Ways to Avoid Snaring Endangered Seabirds

Wed, 16 Jan 2008 19:21:11 +0000

Fishing fleets from more than 30 countries on the high seas of the Atlantic and Pacific will now use new ways to avoid accidentally snaring seabirds going after bait on long lines.

NOAA Accepting Grant Applications for K-12 Environmental Literacy Project

Wed, 16 Jan 2008 19:19:47 +0000

NOAA's Office of Education is now accepting applications for environmental literacy projects to promote changes in K-12 education in effort to expand the amount of Earth system science taught in the classroom and improve student learning of the subject.

NOAA and Partners Recognize Newest Business to Join Dolphin SMART Program

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 20:02:05 +0000

NOAA’s Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary and its partners today accepted the third charter operator into a new program created to help protect wild dolphins in the Keys. Key West Eco Tours officially joined the Dolphin SMART program after successfully meeting standards that promote responsible viewing of dolphins in the wild.

NOAA Determines White Marlin Not Threatened Nor Endangered

Wed, 9 Jan 2008 19:53:38 +0000

NOAA’s Fisheries Service announced today that the Atlantic white marlin, a billfish highly prized by recreational anglers, does not warrant listing as threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act. Based on the biological status of the species and consideration of the ESA listing factors, the species is not in danger of extinction.

U.S. Climate Change Science Program Issues Revised Research Plan

Wed, 2 Jan 2008 21:03:41 +0000

The U.S. Climate Change Science Program Revised Research Plan Summary is available in the Federal Register and online for review and comment by the public.

Japan Agrees to Suspend Its Hunt of Humpback Whales

Fri, 21 Dec 2007 14:54:13 +0000

After negotiations with the chairman of the International Whaling Commission, Japan has agreed not to target humpback whales during its annual whale hunt that is underway in the seas off Antarctica.

NOAA and VT Halter Marine Launch Third Fisheries Survey Vessel

Thu, 20 Dec 2007 17:43:23 +0000

New NOAA fisheries survey vessel, launched on Dec. 19, in Mississippi, will be able to study fish quietly without altering their behavior.

NOAA, NASA Select Contractor for Satellite-Based Lightning Detection Instrument

Wed, 19 Dec 2007 20:28:39 +0000

NOAA and NASA today announced Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company of Palo Alto, Calif., has been selected for a $96.7 million (including options) contract award to design and develop a new instrument on the next generation of weather satellites.

Increase in Beluga Population Noted With Caution in NOAA Survey of Cook Inlet

Tue, 18 Dec 2007 19:27:49 +0000

NOAA Fisheries Service biologists estimate a beluga whale population of 375 in the Cook Inlet near Anchorage, Alaska, according to data collected during their annual survey in June. This population estimate is the largest since 2001.

NOAA Seeks Greater Protections for Threatened Elkhorn and Staghorn Corals

Tue, 18 Dec 2007 00:57:20 +0000

NOAA is proposing to extend most of the prohibitions of the Endangered Species Act - normally applied only to endangered species - to the threatened elkhorn and staghorn corals.

NOAA Breaks Ground for New Great Lakes Research Laboratory

Mon, 17 Dec 2007 19:59:25 +0000

Officials have broken ground for a new, larger NOAA Great Lakes research laboratory in Pittsfield Township, replacing the current Ann Arbor laboratory in mid to late 2008. The new building will provide twice as much space as the current location as well as updated wet and dry laboratories, and new conference capabilities including a lecture hall that can seat 150.

New Science Paper Says Carbon Emissions Threaten Coral Reefs

Thu, 13 Dec 2007 19:59:28 +0000

NOAA Coral Reef Watch coordinator Mark Eakin, and 17 fellow coral scientists from around the globe say corals could begin to disappear in 50 to 75 years due to steadily warming temperatures and increasing ocean acidification caused by carbon dioxide emissions.

NOAA Initiates Marine Debris Monitoring at Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary

Wed, 12 Dec 2007 17:16:08 +0000

NOAA has established a new monitoring program in Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary to collect data on the location and types of marine debris in the sanctuary.

Captain Michele G. Bullock Takes Command of NOAA’s Pacific Fleet of Scientific Research Ships

Wed, 12 Dec 2007 15:11:18 +0000

NOAA Captain Michele G. Bullock recently took command of the day-to-day operations of the 10 research and survey ships in NOAA’s Pacific fleet controlled from the agency’s Marine Operations Center-Pacific in Seattle.

NOAA Recognizes Custer County, Idaho, as StormReady

Mon, 10 Dec 2007 22:46:30 +0000

Custer County, Idaho, and the communities of Challis, Mackay, and Stanley completed the NOAA National Weather Service StormReady program, better equipping the county to handle severe weather. The Custer County emergency management team fulfilled a rigorous set of warning and evacuation criteria, including the development of a formal hazardous weather plan.

NOAA Releases Report on the State of Deep Coral Ecosystems in the U.S.

Mon, 10 Dec 2007 17:52:22 +0000

NOAA released a new report, The State of Deep Coral Ecosystems of the United States, called for in the President’s Ocean Action Plan on December 10. The peer-reviewed report, prepared by NOAA's Coral Reef Conservation Program, provides a baseline for future research and management of these unique and vulnerable ecosystems.

Mary Glackin Named Deputy Under Secretary for Oceans and Atmosphere

Wed, 5 Dec 2007 14:26:47 +0000

Retired Navy Vice Adm. Conrad C. Lautenbacher, Ph.D., under secretary of commerce for oceans and atmosphere and NOAA administrator, announced today that Mary M. Glackin has been appointed as deputy under secretary of commerce for oceans and atmosphere.

NOAA Helps Prepare East Coast Communities for Tsunami, Storm-Driven Flood Threats

Tue, 4 Dec 2007 01:25:22 +0000

A team of scientists took a crucial step forward in NOAA’s effort to prepare U.S. coastal communities, including Long Island, Atlantic City, and Daytona Beach for potentially deadly tsunami and storm-driven flooding. Scientists with NOAA’s National Geophysical Data Center and the Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences, both based in Boulder, Colo., recently created high-resolution digital elevation models, or DEMs, for the three cities.

Study: Expanding Tropical Belt Could Affect Climate

Mon, 3 Dec 2007 17:29:52 +0000

The Earth’s tropical belt – approximately the area between the tropics of Cancer and Capricorn – has widened over the past quarter century as the planet has warmed, and could change precipitation patterns that would affect ecosystems, agriculture, and water resources, according to research by a NOAA scientist and colleagues. The findings are published today in the first edition of the new publication Nature Geoscience.

NOAA PORTS® Ocean Observing System Installed in Mobile Bay

Thu, 29 Nov 2007 20:03:09 +0000

NOAA announced today that the Port of Mobile, Ala. has become the 14th location in the United States to install the Physical Oceanographic Real-Time System. PORTS®, developed and operated by NOAA, provides accurate real-time oceanographic and meteorological data to mariners that can significantly reduce the risk of vessel groundings and increase the amount of cargo moved through the port. The system will become operational on Dec. 3.

NOAA Service Assessment on Enterprise Tornado Demonstrates Need to Build Hazard Resilient Communities

Thu, 29 Nov 2007 17:50:48 +0000

Enterprise (Ala.) High School officials and students followed appropriate safety measures prior to and during the March 1 tornado outbreak which killed eight students, but the event further demonstrated the need for such facilities to have hardened safe rooms, according to a NOAA National Weather Service assessment released today.

Sanctuary Sam the Sea Lion to Head NOAA’s New National Ocean Awareness Campaign

Wed, 28 Nov 2007 14:40:19 +0000

NOAA’s National Marine Sanctuary Program announced the launch of a new national ocean literacy, education, and public awareness campaign featuring Sanctuary Sam, a California sea lion who will be the program’s “spokes-sea lion” from his SeaWorld-based home in Orlando, Fla.

NOAA Releases List of Fisheries that Interact with Marine Mammals

Tue, 27 Nov 2007 14:56:42 +0000

NOAA Fisheries Service today published its annual List of Fisheries that classifies each U.S. commercial fishery based on its level of interaction with marine mammals.

NOAA Researcher: 2002 Drought Left Millions of Tons of Extra Carbon Dioxide in Earth’s Atmosphere

Mon, 26 Nov 2007 21:57:32 +0000

A new NOAA study, appearing in the current issue of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, shows how a prolonged drought in North America in 2002 cut the continent’s natural uptake of carbon dioxide (CO2) in half, leaving more than 360 million tons more of the heat-trapping greenhouse gas in Earth’s atmosphere.

October 2007 is Ninth Warmest on Record for Contiguous United States

Fri, 16 Nov 2007 16:29:36 +0000

Temperatures in October 2007 were the ninth warmest on record for the contiguous U.S., and especially warm in the Northeast, where five states had their warmest October on record. The January-October 2007 U.S. temperature was the seventh warmest since national records began in 1895, according to scientists at NOAA’s National Climatic Data Center in Asheville, N.C.

NOAA and USDA Accepting Public Comment on Aquaculture Feeds

Fri, 16 Nov 2007 16:26:34 +0000

NOAA and the U.S. Department of Agriculture are soliciting information and ideas on ways to lessen dependence on fish-based feeds in the aquaculture industry. This comment period is the first step of a broad, year-long program that will include research projects, scientific consultations and a national workshop aimed at developing new and effective ingredients for aqua-feed.

NOAA Seeks Applicants for the Ernest F. Hollings Undergraduate Scholarship

Tue, 13 Nov 2007 19:25:51 +0000

NOAA is accepting applications for a scholarship program in honor of retired South Carolina Sen. Ernest F. Hollings, who promoted oceanic and atmospheric research throughout his career. This is the fourth year this scholarship is being made available to students interested in pursuing degrees in ocean and atmospheric sciences and education.

Government Science Panel Publishes Report on North America’s Carbon Budget

Tue, 13 Nov 2007 17:25:06 +0000

The U.S. Climate Change Science Program published a report today that quantifies North America’s net contribution of carbon to the atmosphere and catalogues sources and sinks of carbon on the continent.

Endangered Right Whales Headed South for Winter

Tue, 13 Nov 2007 15:42:56 +0000

To help protect the highly endangered North Atlantic right whale population, NOAA Fisheries Service is reminding mariners and fishers that the start of calving (birthing) season begins Nov. 15, and continues through April 15. Regulations and recommendations are in place to help protect these endangered whales during this critical period.

NOAA Proposes Limits for Three Fisheries to End Overfishing

Fri, 9 Nov 2007 18:56:56 +0000

NOAA Fisheries Service today proposed limits on fishing three key species in order to end overfishing and promote rebuilding of the stocks. The proposal is based on scientific analysis and recommendations of the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council and the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission.

NOAA Scientist: Human Development is Important Indicator of Tidal Creek Health

Fri, 9 Nov 2007 13:52:19 +0000

A new NOAA study reveals that the level of human development activities, including roadways, sidewalks and roofs, in a watershed has a direct impact on the health of America's tidal creeks and may potentially threaten public health in those coastal areas.

NOAA, USGS Warning System to Help Protect Southern Californians

Wed, 7 Nov 2007 20:56:01 +0000

A debris flow and flash flood warning system developed jointly by NOAA’s National Weather Service and the U.S. Geological Survey will help protect Southern Californians from potentially devastating debris flows, commonly known as mud slides, and flash floods in and around burn areas created by the recent wildfires

New NOAA Model Links Mississippi River Nutrient Outflow to Florida Red Tides

Wed, 7 Nov 2007 18:58:57 +0000

A new NOAA research model indicates nutrients flowing from the Mississippi River may stimulate harmful algal blooms to grow on the continental shelf off the west coast of Florida. The peer-reviewed hypothesis is being published in a special issue on Florida red tide in the journal "Continental Shelf Research."

Pilotless Aircraft Flies Toward Eye of Hurricane for First Time

Mon, 5 Nov 2007 19:38:16 +0000

A pilotless hurricane hunter is being flown by remote control into hurricane force winds for the first time to give researchers from NOAA and NASA a real time, low altitude look at a storm with hurricane category 1 winds hovering around 80 miles per hour.

NOAA Launches National Marine Debris Education Effort

Fri, 2 Nov 2007 21:14:37 +0000

NOAA today launched a comprehensive effort aimed at reducing dangerous marine debris. The Internet-based educational campaign for marine debris awareness and prevention answers President Bush's call to increase public awareness and understanding of the global problem of marine debris.

Antarctic Ozone Hole Returns to Near Average Levels

Thu, 1 Nov 2007 18:56:09 +0000

The size of this year's Antarctic ozone hole is slightly above the 10-year average in both depth and overall area, NOAA scientists announced today.

NOAA National Marine Sanctuary Program Offers New Guide to Diving in America's Underwater Treasures

Thu, 1 Nov 2007 18:54:43 +0000

The NOAA National Marine Sanctuary Program has developed a colorful new printed guide and Web page for scuba diving enthusiasts about diving in our nation's 13 national marine sanctuaries, home to some of America's most spectacular underwater sights.

NOAA Reports Record-Setting Tornado Outbreak for October

Thu, 1 Nov 2007 01:01:39 +0000

A total of 87 tornadoes were reported in the United States from October 17-19 – a new record outbreak for the month, according to NOAA's Storm Prediction Center.

NOAA Initiates $1.4 Million Three-Year Project to Study Valuable Deep Hawaiian Coral Ecosystems

Wed, 24 Oct 2007 21:35:23 +0000

NOAA has awarded four Honolulu based organizations $500,000 for the first year of a three-year $1.4 million project to improve the understanding of deep water coral reef ecosystems in the Hawaiian Islands.

NOAA Begins Funding Project to Develop Chesapeake, Delaware Bays Hypoxia Forecasting Models

Tue, 23 Oct 2007 21:31:24 +0000

NOAA has awarded $330,000 to the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science, in a five-year $1.8 million NOAA project to help resource managers analyze and predict how hypoxia, water quality, and fishery production respond to nutrient loading and climatic factors in Chesapeake Bay and Delaware inland bays.

NOAA Initiates Three-Year $781,000 Project to Unravel Gulf Deadzone Mysteries

Fri, 19 Oct 2007 19:06:03 +0000

NOAA has awarded first-year funding of $284,000 to researchers at the University of Texas at Austin Marine Science Institute (UTMSI) as part of a three-year $781,000 project to develop a better understanding of how nutrient pollution from the Mississippi River affects the large area of low oxygen water called the “dead zone” in the Gulf of Mexico. The project will also look at how the dead zone affects commercially and recreationally important fish and shellfish.

NOAA Tracking Hurricane Bertha

Mon, 7 Jul 2008 12:53:41 +0000

The season's first hurricane brewing in the Atlantic.