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.