caster directly by perfoniiing other data handling functions such as auto- 

 matic monitoring of forecasts and automatically alerting the forecaster 

 when predetermined criteria are met which require his attention. 



The same system can automatically collect observations from those 

 automatic and manual surface stations, radar stations, and upper air sta- 

 tions within the WSFO's area of responsibility. In addition, the mini- 

 computer system will automatically disseminate forecasts and warnings 

 to Weather Service Offices, radio, television, newspapers, police, schools 

 and other local users. 



All WSFO's will be interconnected to each other and to the various 

 National Centers (such as the National Hurricane Center), and the River 

 Forecast Centers. This interconnection will be made via a National Digital 

 Circuit in such a way that observations and processed data such as satellite 

 images, forecasts, and computer products are available anywhere in the 

 system. 



With such a system, the forecaster can quickly be made aware of de- 

 veloping severe weather or a flood situation. He will have all the supporting 

 observations. National Meteorological Center products. National Hurricane 

 Center products, and National Severe Storm Forecast Service products 

 in electronic storage for immediate display. He can call up from storage 

 predesigned warning message foniiats onto a TV display that he need only 

 complete. With the press of a button, the warning can automatically be 

 on its way. 



The end result will be the automation of routine data handling, manipu- 

 lation, and communications tasks. Exceptional events can be automatically 

 called to the forecaster's attention. All this will free the man in the system 

 from many routine tasks and permit him to do those things that require 

 judgment and creativity. For example, with the situation as it exists today, 

 it is very difficult for a small plane pilot to reach a forecaster who could 

 brief him when he plans his flight. This represents a special requirement 

 for forecast products. It is similar, though more crucial to safety, to the 

 special requirement that a farmer might have for a weather forecast in 

 making a decision about when to cut hay. There are many others. NACOA 

 feels that there is much weather information that exists today within the 

 National Weather Service that is not readily available to many groups of 

 potential users who have special requirements. 



We support the efforts of the NWS to automate routine functions and 

 to free the forecaster for contact with users. NACOA strongly supports 

 the preparatory steps already taken by NOAA to automate the system and 

 urges that the implementation of these programs be given priority support. 

 As these improvements are made, careful interagency coordination between 

 NOAA, DOD, and the FAA should continue so as to guarantee that inter- 



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