Who issues flood forecasts and warnings?

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is responsible for issuing flood forecasts and warnings. This agency plays a critical role in monitoring weather conditions, including precipitation and river levels, to anticipate flooding events. Through its National Weather Service (NWS), a division of NOAA, the organization provides timely and accurate forecasts, alerts, and warnings to the public and local authorities about potential flooding risks. This enables communities to take necessary precautions to protect lives and property.

While other agencies like the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Department of the Interior are involved in disaster response and management, they do not directly issue flood forecasts or warnings. The NWS is specifically tasked with this mission under NOAA's umbrella, making it the primary authority for flood-related weather information.