NOAA takes weather information wireless

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration recently unveiled a new software application that makes the latest weather forecasts and news available on wireless handheld devices.

NOAA's Office of High Performance Computing and Communications developed the new Xpress application designed for Palm Computing Inc.'s Palm VII handheld wireless device. Users can download the application from www.hpcc.noaa.gov/palmpilot.html or www.palm.net/apps.

Once downloaded, the application enables users to receive the latest news, local weather forecasts and warnings, coastal water temperatures, fish market prices, and a NOAA staff locator. In the near future, NOAA plans to add new functions, including offering the latest hurricane information.