Floyd, one of the worst hurricanes in recent history, barely missed Georgia and the southeastern United States, but created significant damage and fatalities in North Carolina and other eastern states. In 1999, Georgia and surrounding states suffered a very significant drought. And because of low water levels in reservoirs, lakes and rivers, water restrictions in many metropolitan areas were imposed.
Weather is one of the most important factors that impacts agriculture.
Temperature, sunshine and rain strongly affect crop growth and development in everything from row crops to golf courses. Because the livelihood of many people depends on agribusiness, it is critical that timely weather information is available to help inform the public of potential bad weather conditions. The information from the NWS was critical in evacuation preparation of hurricane Floyd. It is the first organization who provides warnings for bad weather conditions. Several years ago the NWS was mandated to eliminate its service to agriculture.