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Additional Heavy Rain and Flooding Concerns in Central Texas; Tropical Storm Chantal to Impact the Coastal Carolinas

Heavy rainfall and flooding concerns remain for today across Central Texas and the Hill Country, with scattered thunderstorms expected this afternoon and evening. Tropical Storm Chantal has formed and will bring heavy rainfall and flooding concerns to portions of the coastal Carolinas. Life-threatening surf and rip currents are expected from the Southeast to Mid-Atlantic. Read More >

Joseph A. Pica


Joseph A. Pica
Director, Office of Observations
National Weather Service
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

Joseph A. Pica serves as the Director of the NWS Office of Observations and is responsible for the collection of space, atmosphere, water, and climate observational data owned or leveraged by the NWS to support the mission of providing weather, water, and climate data forecasts and warnings for the protection of life and property; and for the enhancement of the National economy.

Mr. Pica came to the NWS after serving as a NOAA commissioned officer for 23 years, including responsibility as Commanding Officer of two ships - NOAA’s flagship and only global class vessel (Ronald H. Brown) and the fleet’s most technologically advanced ship for deep sea exploration (Okeanos Explorer). Between sea assignments, he brought his operational, technical, and leadership skills to a variety of shore assignments ranging from Hydrologist at the Northwest River Forecast Center to Executive Director to the Deputy Under Secretary for Operations.  

Mr. Pica completed the Senior Executive Fellows program at Harvard's Kennedy School of Government and holds a Master's degree in Civil Engineering from Portland State University and Bachelor's degree in General Engineering from the University of Illinois.

Mr. Pica resides in Rockville, Maryland with his wife and daughter.

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