Weather.gov: U.S. National Weather Service’s Official Weather & Safety Hub

Product Overview & Key Features

• Real-Time Local Weather: Search by zip code, city, or state to access current conditions (temperature, humidity, wind speed) and 7-day forecasts tailored to specific regions.
• Severe Weather Alerts: Color-coded warnings (e.g., tornado, hurricane, flood, blizzard) and watches, with clear guidance on safety actions (evacuation, sheltering). Alerts are prioritized by urgency and location.
• Climate & Historical Data: Access past weather records (temperature, precipitation), climate trends, and seasonal outlooks—valuable for planning (e.g., farming, construction).
• Safety Resources: Educational guides on preparing for extreme weather (e.g., hurricane kits, winter storm tips) and interactive maps (radar, satellite imagery) to visualize weather systems.

How to Use Weather.gov

1. Visit the Site: Navigate to https://www.weather.gov/ via any browser (no login required).
2. Find Local Info: Enter a zip code, city, or state in the “Search for Location” bar to pull up your area’s forecast and current conditions.
3. Check Alerts: Look for the “Alerts” section at the top of your local page—red for warnings (imminent risk) and yellow for watches (potential risk).
4. Explore Resources: Click “Climate” for historical data or “Safety” for preparedness guides; use the “Maps” tab to view radar or satellite imagery.

Application Scenarios

• Daily Planning: Check 7-day forecasts to decide on clothing, outdoor activities (hiking, picnics), or travel plans.
• Severe Weather Prep: Follow tornado/hurricane warnings to gather supplies or evacuate when advised.
• Professional Use: Farmers use climate data for crop planning; pilots reference wind speed info for flights; emergency managers rely on alerts to coordinate responses.
• Education: Students use historical records or safety guides to learn about weather science and preparedness.