A powerful Chukchi Sea, Alaska storm will produce high winds and coastal flooding that could impact critical infrastructures across western and northwestern Alaska. Locally heavy showers and thunderstorms in the Southwest may produce flash flooding, especially on burn scars, slick rocks, and dry washes. A cold front will bring fall temps and a wintry mix to the Upper Midwest and Great Lakes. Read More >
The National Weather Service (NWS) Upper-air Observations Program is managed by the Office of Observations (OBS), which is part of NWS Headquarters located in Silver Spring, Maryland. Upper-air Program staff oversee the operation of 92 Radiosonde stations in North America and the Pacific Islands. It also supports the operation of 10 stations in the Caribbean. Radiosondes provide upper-air data that are essential for weather forecasts and research. OBS staff are also involved in the development, testing and implementation of new radiosonde ground systems.
Fact Sheet - Information on radiosondes.
Network Maps - Maps showing station locations..
Special Studies - NWS HQ radiosonde data studies.
Background - History of upper-air observations.
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions.
NCEI - NOAA/National Centers for Environmental Information. Official source for archives of NWS upper air soundings.
NWSM 10 1401 Rawinsonde Observations Handbook - This manual provides instructions on how to take an upper air observation with NWS equipment.
Revision to Appendix K, Station Safety This revision to Appendix K replaces the version in NWSM 10-1401 Rawinsonde Observations shown above.
