Earth Observations: Bringing Together Critical Information for

NOAA’s role is to bring together critical information to forecast major weather events, improve public understanding of the risks in coastal areas, and prepare and respond to disasters. NOAA utilizes oceanic and atmospheric observations, advanced remote sensing capabilities, and on-the-ground experience to provide decision makers with information to make better decisions when confronted with the forces of nature. The recent intense cycle of hurricanes has focused attention on the vulnerability of our oceans and coasts, the stresses on the ecosystem, and the need for integrated ocean and coastal management. Through the emerging Global Earth Observation System of Systems (GEOSS) (www.earthobservations.org), NOAA is working with its federal partners, more than 60 countries, and the European Commission, to develop a global monitoring network that is as integrated as the planet it observes. GEOSS will build on and add value to existing observation systems by coordinating their efforts, addressing critical gaps, supporting interoperability, and improving delivery of information to help all nations prepare and respond to disasters. NOAA, an agency of the U.S. Department of Commerc