FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 10, 2002

MEDIA ADVISORY

NOAA FORECASTERS FOCUS ON DROUGHT FOR SUMMER 2002

Summer begins June 21, yet drought is already covering much of the western United States and areas of the East, according to NOAA drought experts. NOAA forecasters are scheduled to update the nation's drought outlook for the summer. Drought-induced wildfires are of particular concern this summer with the nation already experiencing a severe wildfire season. More than 1.3 million acres have burned so far this year—nearly twice the average.

WHAT: Top NOAA climate and weather experts will discuss drought conditions throughout most of the western part of the country, as well as portions of the East.

WHERE: NOAA National Centers for Environmental Prediction
5200 Auth Road, 4th Floor Media Center
Camp Springs, MD 20746

WHEN: Thursday, June 13, 2002
2:00 p.m. EDT

WHO: John Jones, NOAA National Weather Service deputy director
Jim Laver, NOAA Climate Prediction Center director

NOAA's National Weather Service is the primary source of weather data, forecasts and warnings for the United States and its territories. The National Weather Service operates the most advanced weather and flood warning and forecast system in the world, helping to protect lives and property and enhance the national economy.

Relevant Web Sites:
NOAA's Drought Information Center

NOAA's National Weather Service

NOAA's Climate Prediction Center

NOAA National Centers for Environmental Prediction

Media Contacts:
John Leslie or Curtis Carey, NOAA National Weather Service, (301) 713-0622