There are many components which together form the NWSRFS.
Brief historical perspectives are available in this material, along with discussions of the runoff models, snow models, and routing models which are a part of NWSRFS.
Supporting software such as calibration techniques and parameter concepts and values are also discussed.

click here for comments on the early years

Today

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Thirteen RFCs (River Forecast Centers) now exist for the sole purpose of developing hydrologic forecasts for the United States (U.S.).  These RFCs are staffed by approximately 150 hydrologists and provide a wide variety of hydrologic forecasting services.
The mission of the NWS hydrologic service program is to save lives, reduce property damage, and contribute to the maximum beneficial use of the Nation's water resources.

The scope is large since about 75% of all natural disasters
in the U.S. are flood related.


Products generated by the RFCs include:

• flood forecasts
• general river forecasts used for navigation and other purposes
• reservoir inflow forecasts
• water supply forecasts
• spring flood outlooks
• various types of flash flood guidance

The RFCs also provide a variety of other services.
They develop forecast procedures as required and requested; develop and implement new forecast techniques; and remain current in advanced hydrologic forecast techniques, computer systems, data handling techniques, and hydrologic related hardware.

In addition, the RFCs provide expertise on a wide range of hydrologic activities such as dambreak analysis for the NWS and other federal, state, and local agencies.


The general public is, of course, the primary user.
However, other government agencies, irrigation interests, power producers, recreation, fish and wildlife, navigation, and other commerce all benefit and use hydrologic forecasts.