ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

NOAA's Environmental Real-time Observation Network

NOAA is an organization that helps keep people safe by providing information about the environment. They have a special network called the Environmental Real-Time Observation Network, or ERON for short.

It's kind of like having a lot of animals helping us keep an eye on things outside. They have special tools called sensors that help them measure things like how hot or cold it is, how much rain is falling, or how fast the wind is blowing.

These sensors are spread out all over the United States in places like the ocean, mountains, and even in cities. They send information back to a special place where NOAA scientists can use it to help predict the weather and track natural disasters like hurricanes or wildfires.

This helps us stay safe because we can be prepared for things that might happen outside, like wearing a warm coat if it's going to be cold or making sure we have enough food and water if there's going to be a big storm. So thanks to ERON and all the animal helpers, we can stay informed and stay safe!