The primary mission of the National Weather Service is to provide the American public with the best possible warning service to save lives.

Extensive climate records help engineers, architects, researchers, insurance companies and utilities.

Spot forecasts help firefighters control wildfires and emergency management officials contain hazardous chemical spills. Specialized marine and aviation forecasts help enhance the national economy. The men and women at your local National Weather Service forecast office gather the raw weather data, analyze the data, and study numerical computer models in order to issue the weather and River forecasts and warnings to protect life and property. It is easy to forget that around the clock, dedicated meteorologists, hydrologists, technicians and weathercasters are vigilantly creating forecasts to help you plan your day, and issuing warnings to help keep you safe. Turn on your television or radio, or check a web site and you get the weather forecast. Many of us take weather information for granted. This is a day to recognize the men and women who collectively provide Americans with the best weather, water, and climate forecasts and warning services of any nation. Jeffries, one of Americas first weather observers, began taking daily weather observations in Boston in 1774 and he took the first balloon observation in 1784. The day commemorates the birth of John Jeffries in 1744. February 5th is National Weatherperson's Day.

Weatherman