The Mission of the International Activities Office (IAO) of the U.S. National Weather Service is to enhance NOAA/NWS' ability to provide the best weather, water, and climate forecasts through international cooperation on hydro-meteorological observations, data exchange, modeling, research, and technology development; and to provide global leadership in setting meteorological standards and building partnerships to save lives and protect property.

In fulfilling this mission, the IAO focuses on the following

• It represents the relevant interests of the National Weather Service and other parts of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in international activities, especially those that advance short-term warning and forecast services.
  
  
• It serves as the focal point in the United States for national meteorological and hydrologic services of other countries. The Office administers assistance to other countries in crisis with meteorological and hydrologic support in line with this mission.
  
  
• It seeks to improve international observing and telecommunications networks and to build national capabilities (through capacity building and technology transfer) in developing countries as a means to improve overall levels of products and services.
  
  
• The IAO participates actively in the activities and meetings of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and supports the Permanent Representative to the WMO from the United States.