The
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (
NOAA, pronounced , like "
Noah") is an American scientific agency within the
United States Department of Commerce focused on the conditions of the
oceans and the
atmosphere. NOAA warns of dangerous
weather, charts seas and skies, guides the use and protection of ocean and coastal resources, and conducts research to improve understanding and stewardship of the
environment. In addition to its civilian employees, 12,000 as of 2012, NOAA research and operations are supported by 300
uniformed service members who make up the
NOAA Commissioned Officer Corps. The current
Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere at the Department of Commerce and the agency's administrator is
Kathryn D. Sullivan, who was nominated February 28, 2013, and confirmed March 6, 2014.