Homeland Security joins NOAA alert system

SUITLAND, Md., June 17 (UPI) -- NOAA's weather warning system will now carry messages from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, reaching 97 percent of the nation in an emergency.

The addition will supplement the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's existing All-Hazards Network, capable of delivering life-saving information on a local, state or national level.

Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency will also continue maintaining its emergency alert system.

"Critical information will now be available when people most need it," said Vice Admiral Conrad C. Lautenbacher USN (Ret.), undersecretary of commerce for oceans and atmosphere and NOAA administrator. "What began as NOAA Weather Radio broadcasts now extends to a range of products and all-hazards purposes. It's gratifying to know that many more lives can now be better protected."

Under the new agreement, Homeland Security will send any emergency messages to NOAA, which will broadcast the warnings to affected areas.