It’s more than just the weather.

In 1870:

• the United States 15th Amendment was ratified, giving African American males the right to vote.
• Christmas became a national holiday.
• The Franco-Prussian War began.

And the US Weather Bureau, the precursor to the National Weather Service (NWS) was created on February 7.  Post-war generals wanted accurate weather forecasts for battles.

Its first forecast later that year:

High winds at Chicago and Milwaukee… and along the Lakes.

We all know that was an easy one to forecast. However since that time, the NWS has expanded their technology and reach, including helping to forecast climate change.

Take a look:

Want to learn more about becoming a climate community, using some of the knowledge and discoveries from the NWS?  Check out Climate Communities International.