Department of Commerce - National Weather Service · 2019-11-27 · climate observational data owned or leveraged by National Weather Service”. Observation platforms operated and

Department of Commerce • National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration • National Weather Service

NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE INSTRUCTION 10-2205 December 10, 2019

Operations and Services Readiness 10-22

CONTINUITY OF OPERATIONS (COOP)

NOTICE: This publication is available at: http://www.nws.noaa.gov/directives/.

OPR: COOP MGR (T. WILLIAMS) Certified by: COO (J. MURPHY) Type of Issuance: Initial

Signed 11/26/2019 ____________________________________ _______________ John D. Murphy, Chief Operating Officer Date

http://www.nws.noaa.gov/directives/

NWSI 10-2205 DECEMBER 10, 2019

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Continuity of Operations (COOP)

Table of Contents Page 1. Concepts of COOP…………….………………………………………………………. 3 2. Mission............................................................................................................................ 3 3. Scope………………………………………………………………………………… 3 4. Essential Functions……………………………………………………………………. 3 5. Primary Mission Essential Functions…………………………………………………. 3 6. Authorities and Responsibilities……………………………………………………… 4 7. Instruction……………………………………………………………………………… 4

7.1 Goals of COOP…………………………………………………………………… 4 7.2 NWS HQ Organization for COOP ………………………….…………………… 5 7.3 Regions/Center Organization for COOP Operations …………………………… 5

8. COOP Training and Exercises ANNEX A – NWS HQ COOP Plan………………………………………………………. 7


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Continuity of Operations

1. Concepts and Goals of COOP NWS Continuity of Operations (COOP) is based on the concept of continuing to provide essential services and critical products to customers under adverse conditions that may affect NWS personnel, facilities, equipment, and systems for periods that can last up to thirty (30) days. 2. Mission The NWS’s mission is to provide weather, water, and climate data, forecasts and warnings for the protection of life and property and enhancement of the national economy. To accomplish this mission, NWS must ensure its operations are performed efficiently with minimal disruption, especially during an emergency. This document provides planning and program guidance for implementing the Continuity of Operations Plan to ensure the organization is capable of conducting its essential missions and functions under all threats and conditions. 3. Scope

The NWS COOP Plan applies to all NWS facilities, functions, personnel, and contractors and is the overarching document for all NWS field organization recovery planning. The completed NWS COOP Plan consists of the basic National Weather Service Headquarters (HQ) plan and annexes for all NWS Regions and National Centers. The NWS Headquarters COOP Plan applies to all personnel assigned to the Silver Spring Metro Complex and associated field units. All NWS staff must be familiar with continuity policies and procedures and their respective continuity roles and responsibilities.

Regions and Centers are directed to develop a COOP plan to be included as an Annex to the NWS COOP Plan. Personnel assigned to the regions/centers are to follow the plan developed for their regions/centers

4. Essential Functions 4.1 Department of Commerce Essential Functions The NWS supports 2 Department of Commerce Essential Functions (Those functions that the Federal Government must continue to provide under emergency situations):

DOC -2 - Collect and provide the Nation with critical intelligence data, imagery, and other essential information for predictive environmental and atmospheric modeling systems and space-based distress alert systems by operating NOAA controlled satellites, communications equipment, and associated systems.


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DOC – 3 - Provide the Nation with environmental forecasts, warning, data, and expertise critical to public safety, disaster preparedness, all-hazards response and recovery, the national transportation system, safe navigation and the protection of the Nation’s critical infrastructure and natural resources

4.2. NWS Primary Mission Essential Functions (PMEF) The NWS has three PMEFs (functions that enable support of the Essential Functions)

PMEF 1 – OBSERVATION – “Worldwide collection of space, atmosphere, water, and climate observational data owned or leveraged by National Weather Service”. Observation platforms operated and maintained by the NWS include but are not limited to, Radars, Buoys, Cooperative and Automated Surface Observing Systems, and Radiosondes.

Observation platforms leveraged by the NWS include, but are not limited to National Mesonets, Profilers, Aircraft, Voluntary Observing Ships (VOS), Satellites, and partner/commercial data. PMEF 2 – CENTRAL PROCESSING – “Technical support for field operations and services including observations, numerical prediction, modeling (including dispersion modeling), hydrologic applications (flooding, precipitation, water level), and weather and climate predictions and warnings”.

Continuity of systems that includes, but is not limited to the Weather and Climate Operational Supercomputing System (WCOSS), the Advanced Weather Interactive Processing System (AWIPS), hydrology information technology initiatives, and the information technology (IT) infrastructure supporting national centers and field operations. PMEF 3 – DISSEMINATION – “Dissemination of NWS weather, water, and climate data and information to the public to support sector-relevant economic productivity and to help communities, businesses, and governments understand and adapt to weather- and climate-related risks”. Sustain Dissemination systems and back-up systems operational capability. The Telecommunications Gateway is the central weather warning, observation, and forecast collection and distribution portal; and weather data handling and exchange facility.

6. Responsibilities and Authorities 6.1 Responsibilities for COOP Activation A COOP Plan may be activated by: 1. The President of the United States 2. The Secretary of Homeland Defense - acting for the President in accordance with HSPD-


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5, Management of Domestic Incidents 3. The Secretary of Commerce 4. Under-Secretary for Oceans and Atmospheres (NOAA Administrator) 5. Director, National Weather Service; or 6. Financial Management Center (FMC) Director For individual responsibilities, see Appendix 1 (NWS COOP Plan), Annex A 6.2 Authorities: This instruction has been developed in accordance with guidance in Executive Order (EO) 12656, Assignment of Emergency Preparedness Responsibilities; Presidential Policy Directive 40 National Continuity Policy; Homeland Security Council, National Continuity Policy Implementation Plan; Homeland Security Presidential Directive 5, Federal Continuity Directive (FCD) 1, Federal Executive Branch National Continuity Program and Requirements, January 2017, and other related Directives and guidance.

7. Instructions:

7.1 Goals of COOP

- Ensure that NWS can perform its Primary Mission Essential Functions (PMEFs), under all conditions. - Ensure that NWS has facilities where it can continue to perform its PMEFs, as appropriate, during a continuity event, - Protect essential facilities, equipment, records, and other assets, in the event of a disruption. - Achieve NWS’s timely and orderly recovery and reconstitution from an emergency.

7.2. NWS HQ Organization for COOP Operations

NWS Designated Continuity Personnel (DCP) who are relocated under this plan are placed into groups based on the functions they will support. These groups are:

- Emergency Relocation Group (ERG) – DCP required to provide control of the NWS and

integrate with the NOAA staff. Upon plan activation, these members will deploy to Site C. This group is centered around the AA/DAA.

- Support Group (SG) – DCP required to provide accountability, financial, facilities and

reconstitution support.. Upon plan activation, these members will deploy to Site B. This group is centered around the CFO/CAO.

- Operational Group (OG) – DCP required to provide operational control of the field

activities of the NWS. Upon plan activation, these members will deploy to the Devolution Site. This group is centered around the COO.

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The three groups will be linked through Operations Teams composed of NWS Operations Center staff and Southern Region Operations Center staff.

Upon arrival, DCP must establish an operational capability and perform essential functions within 12 hours from the time of the activation of the NWS HQ COOP Plan, for up to a 30-day period or until normal operations can be resumed. Existing decision-making and reporting chains have been maintained in this plan as much as practical, but situations may arise where decisions and reporting are altered as the situation dictates. Group Leaders, and their deputies, will exercise full control within their areas of responsibilities and will have designated authority to act in support of the NWS Primary Mission Essential Functions (PMEF).

All HQ personnel who have not been assigned COOP duties, in writing, should follow OPM guidance and telework, as possible. All personnel should actively attempt to contact their supervisory chain, or the use the NOAA Check-in number at 1.888.NOAA911. To ensure accountability, NWS personnel assigned to the regions/centers should follow the guidance set out by the annexes to this plan by the established supervisory chain. Under COOP conditions, personnel who have not been designated formally with COOP responsibilities may be recalled to provide assistance to the COOP effort. If an event occurs in the National Capital Area that would cause the NWS Headquarters to relocate, there could be an extended time period where the NWS HQ would be unreachable. If COOP is activated, control of the NWS will devolve to Southern Region, until the NWS HQ leadership can re-assume control. The Southern Region Director will assume the role of the

NWS OC and SR ROC WebEoc, Everbridge ENS, NWSOC, NWS Ops Page, NWS Chat

Emergency Relocation Group

(ERG) Fairmont, WV (Site

Support Group (SG)

Sterling, VA (Site B) CFO/CAO,

Operations Group (OG)

Southern Region Fort Worth


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NWS Director, and will have the authority to act in that capacity until the NWS leadership re-assumes control.

7.3. Regions/Center Organization for COOP Operations

Regions/Centers are required to have a written COOP plan for the organizations inside their area of control. The focus for all COOP planning is to have simple plans that follow existing business practices, and to have these plans disseminated and widely understood by the organization. - COOP Planning for Regions: Since Service Backup Plans are in place, and ensure that PMEFs are met, regional COOP plans should focus on the relocation of the regional HQs. Plans should include the alternate sites for relocation, identification of the personnel who will be required to relocate , plans for those who will not be required to relocate, alert notification procedures, leadership order of succession, reconstitution measures upon cessation of the COOP event, and the methods for notifying customers/partners/higher HQs of regional COOP activation. The current Service Backup plan should be attached as an annex to regional COOP plans. - COOP Planning for Centers: COOP planning for centers is the same for Regions, except that continued provision of the Critical Products replace the Service Backup Plans. Centers should identify critical products, and ensure that an alternate location/means of providing these products is clearly stated in the COOP Plan. If the products are to be provided by an outside agency, (e.g. an element of the Department of Defense) a Memorandum of Understanding/Agreement should be in place to formalize the provision of the product(s). Copies of any agreements should be annexes to the Center COOP plans. The basic information in the NWS Headquarters COOP Plan applies to the organization as a whole. The Primary Mission Essential Functions (PMEF) are the same for all organizations in the NWS, even though individual organizations may have different pieces of those missions. It is, therefore, not necessary to restate much of the information contained in that plan. Region/Center plans should concentrate on those areas that are significantly different from the NWS HQ plan.. COOP planning in the NWS does not formally (requiring written COOP plans/Annexes) extend below the Region/Center level. This does not prohibit Regions/Centers from ensuring any subordinate organizations conduct adequate preparation for COOP. This does not remove or alter the requirements for all organizations to have facility evacuation plans and to test those plans regularly. 8. COOP Training and Exercises All FMCs have the responsibility to ensure training by conducting annual COOP exercises. These exercises can range from leadership table- top drills, to full-scale COOP relocation. All NWS elements are encouraged to use real-world events, as well as participation in partner (e.g. FEMA Regions) events to assist with meeting this requirement. The most critical component of the training program is ensuring that the COOP plan is disseminated to everyone in the organization, and that everyone understands their role(s) in case of a COOP activation.


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ANNEX A – NWS COOP Plan TABLE OF CONTENTS BASIC PLAN 4

I. Promulgation Statement 4 II. Record of Changes 6 III. Purpose, Scope, Situations, and Assumptions 6

A. Purpose 6 B. Scope 7 C. Planning Assumptions 7 D. Objectives 7 E. Security and Privacy Statement 8

IV. Concept of Operations 8 A. Readiness and Preparedness Phase 8 B. Activation and Relocation Phase 11 C. Continuity Operations Phase 13 D. Reconstitution Operations Phase 14 E. Devolution of Control and Direction 16

V. Organization and Assignment of Responsibilities 16 VI. Direction, Control, and Coordination 17 VII. Communications 17 VIII. Plan Development and Maintenance 17

FUNCTIONAL ANNEXES 18

A. Essential Functions 18 B. Roles and Responsibilities 19 C. NWS COOP Flowchart 22 D. NWS Organization for COOP 23 E. NWS COOP Timelines 24 F. Vital Records Management 27 G. Continuity Facilities 28 H. Orders of Succession and Delegation of Authority 29 I. Human Capital 33 J. Test, Training, and Exercises Program 34

K. Glossary 36 L. Acronyms 40 M. Authorities and References 41

* NOTE: COOP Plans from Regions and Centers will be added as annexes to this plan in the


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order the plans are approved. BASIC PLAN I. Promulgation Statement The NWS’s mission is to provide weather, water, and climate data, forecasts and warnings for the protection of life and property and enhancement of the national economy. To accomplish this mission, NWS must ensure its operations are performed efficiently with minimal disruption, especially during an emergency. This document provides planning and program guidance for implementing the NWS Continuity of Operations Plan to ensure the organization is capable of conducting its essential missions and functions under all threats and conditions. NWS Designated Continuity Personnel (DCP) who are relocated under this plan are placed into groups based on the functions they will support. These groups are:

- Emergency Relocation Group (ERG) – DCP required to provide control of the NWS and integrate with the NOAA staff. Upon \plan activation, the assigned DCP members will deploy to Site C (Fairmont, WV). This group is centered around the AA/DAA.

- Support Group (SG) - DCP required to provide accountability, financial, facilities and

reconstitution support. Upon plan activation, the assigned DCP members will deploy to Site B (Sterling Field Support Center, VA). This group is centered around the CFO/CAO.

- Operational Group (OG) - DCP required to provide operational control of the field

activities of the NWS. Upon plan activation, the assigned DCP members will deploy to the Devolution Site (Southern Region, Fort Worth, TX). This group is centered around the COO.

NWS OC and SR ROC WebEoc, ENS, NWS Ops Page, NWS Chat

Emergency Relocation Group

(ERG) Fairmont, WV

(Site C)

Support Group (SG)

Sterling, VA (Site B)

Operations Group (OG)

Southern Region Fort Worth (Devolution

Site)


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The three groups will be linked through teams composed of NWS Operations Center staff (ERG and SG) and Southern Region Operations Center (OG) staff. Upon arrival, DCP must establish an operational capability and perform essential functions within 12 hours from the time of the activation of the NWS COOP Plan, for up to a 30-day period or until normal operations can be resumed. Existing decision-making and reporting chains have been maintained in this plan as much as practical, but situations may arise where decisions and reporting are altered as the situation dictates. Group Leaders, and their deputies, will exercise full control within their areas of responsibilities and will have designated authority to act in support of the NWS Primary Mission Essential Functions (PMEF). All HQ personnel who have not been assigned COOP duties in writing, should follow OPM guidance. All personnel should actively attempt to contact their supervisory chain, or use the NOAA Emergency Check-In number at 1.888.NOAA911 (or 1-888-662-2911) to ensure accountability. NWS personnel assigned to the regions/centers should follow the guidance set out by the annexes to this plan by the established supervisory chain. Under COOP conditions, personnel who have not been designated formally with COOP responsibilities may be recalled to provide assistance to the NWS COOP effort. This plan has been developed in accordance with guidance in Executive Order (EO) 12656, Assignment of Emergency Preparedness Responsibilities; Presidential Policy Directive 40 National Continuity Policy; Homeland Security Council, National Continuity Policy Implementation Plan; Federal Continuity Directive (FCD) 1, Federal Executive Branch National Continuity Program and Requirements, January 2017; and other related Directives and guidance. LOUIS W. UCCELLINI Assistant Administrator for Weather Services National Weather Service


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II. Record of Changes Revision History Revision Level

Date

Description

Change Summary

NWS-COOP-ERH 01-00

12/31/03

Initial document

N/A

NWS-COOP-ERH 01-00

1/07/04

Second release

Incorporated customer corrections and comments

NWS-COOP-ERH-03-00

07/01/07

Third Release

Change Title and complete revision

NWS-COOP-04-00 9/30/09 Fourth Release Change Title and adopt DOC and NOAA Template

NWS-COOP-05-00 05/01/10 Fifth Release Update to FCD Standard NWS-COOP-06-00 11/30/11 Sixth Release Complete revision and Devolution

Plan consolidation NWS-COOP-07-00 03/31/12 Seventh

Release Complete Revision

NWS-COOP-08-00 Aug 17 Eighth Release Complete Revision

III. Purpose, Scope, Planning Assumptions, Objectives, and Security/Privacy Statement A. Purpose The NWS’s mission is to provide weather, water, and climate data, forecasts and warnings for the protection of life and property and enhancement of the national economy. To accomplish this mission, NWS must ensure its operations are performed efficiently with minimal disruption, especially during an emergency. While the severity and consequences of an emergency cannot be predicted, effective contingency planning can minimize the impact on NWS missions, personnel, and facilities. The overall purpose of continuity of operations is to ensure the continuity of the Mission Essential Functions (MEFs) and the Primary Mission Essential Functions (PMEF) under all conditions. The current changing threat environment and recent emergencies, including acts of nature, accidents, technological emergencies, and military or terrorist attack-related incidents, have increased the need for viable continuity of operations capabilities and plans that enable agencies to continue their essential functions across a spectrum of emergencies. These conditions, coupled with the potential for terrorist use of weapons of mass destruction, have increased the importance of having continuity programs that ensure continuity of essential


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government functions across the Federal Executive Branch. B. Scope The NWS COOP Plan applies to all NWS facilities, functions, personnel, and contractors and is the overarching document for all NWS field organization recovery planning. The completed NWS COOP Plan consists of the basic NWS Headquarters (HQ) COOP Plan and annexes for all NWS Regions, Centers and Field Offices. The NWS HQ COOP Plan applies to all personnel assigned to the Silver Spring Metro Complex. NWS staff must be familiar with continuity policies and procedures and their respective continuity roles and responsibilities. C. Planning Assumptions This NWS COOP Plan is based on the following assumptions:

• An emergency condition may require the relocation of the Emergency Relocation Group (ERG) to Site C, the Support Group(SG) to Site B, and the Operational Group (OG) to the Devolution Site.

• The relocation sites will support ERG/SG/OG members and the continuation of NWS

essential functions by available communications and information systems within 12 hours or less from the time the Continuity of Operations Plan is activated, for potentially up to a 30-day period or until normal operations can be resumed.

• NWS Regional operations are unaffected and available to support actions directed by

the Assistant Administrator (AA) or his/her successor. However, in the event that ERG deployment is not feasible due to the loss of personnel, direction of the NWS will devolve to Southern Region, until the ERG is reconstituted.

• Research and Development efforts will be suspended until the COOP condition is

resolved, or until space and resources become available to restart the effort. D. Objectives

• Ensure that NWS can perform its Primary Mission Essential Functions (PMEFs), under all conditions.

• Ensure that NWS has facilities where it can continue to perform its PMEFs, as

appropriate, during a continuity event.

• Protect essential facilities, equipment, records, and other assets, in the event of a disruption.

• Achieve NWS’s timely and orderly recovery and reconstitution from an

emergency.

• Ensure and validate continuity readiness through an integrated continuity test,

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training, and exercise program. E. Security and Privacy Statement This document is UNCLASSIFIED. Portions of the NWS COOP Plan contain information that raises personal privacy or other concerns, and those portions may be exempt from mandatory disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act (see 5 United States Code §552, 41 Code of Federal Regulations Part 105- 60). It is not to be released to the public or other personnel who do not have a valid “need to know” without prior approval of the NWS AA/DAA, or NWS COOP Program Manager. Some of the information in this plan, if made public, could endanger the lives and privacy of employees. In addition, the disclosure of information in this plan could compromise the security of essential equipment, services, and systems of NWS or otherwise impair its ability to carry out essential functions. Distribution of the NWS COOP Plan in whole or in part is limited to those personnel who need to know the information in order to successfully implement this plan. ERG/SG/OG members will maintain a hard copy of this plan. Copies of this plan will be distributed to other organizations within NOAA as necessary to promote information sharing and facilitate a coordinated interagency continuity effort. Further distribution of this plan, in hardcopy or electronic form, is not allowed without approval from NWS AA/DAA . The NWS COOP Program Manager will distribute updated versions of the NWS COOP Plan annually or as critical changes occur. IV. Concept of Operations

A. Readiness and Preparedness PHASE NWS participates in the full spectrum of readiness and preparedness activities to ensure its personnel can continue essential functions in an all-hazard risk environment. NWS activities in this area are organizational and personnel readiness and preparedness. Organization Readiness and Preparedness NWS preparedness incorporates several key components. Two major components of readiness are the Continuity of Government Conditions (COGCON), for organizations in the National Capital Region, and the DHS National Terrorism Advisory System (NTAS). COGCON Procedures NOAA has established internal plans and procedures for executing changes to the COGCON level, if applicable. NWS has identified the following additional activities to undertake at each COGCON level, if applicable.


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NTAS Procedures NOAA has established internal plans and procedures for executing changes based on the NTAS alert regarding imminent threat or elevated threat. NWS has identified the following activities to undertake for each NTAS threat level as directed by NOAA.

National Terrorist Advisory System Alerts

Threat Alert Threat Condition Criteria Organization Potential Response

Imminent Threat Alert

Warns of credible, specific, and impending terrorist threat against the United States.

• Activate the NWS COOP Plan • Alert NWS Devolution Site

Elevated Threat Alert

Warns of credible non- specific terrorist threat against the United States.

• The NWS AA/DAA/COO reviews NWS COOP Plan and devolution plans and procedures

• The NWS AA places NWS COOP groups and Devolution Site on alert

COGCON Level Activity Frequency Level 4 Normal Operations N/A

Level 3 • NWS Operations Center conducts communications checks by EANS and telephonic rosters with ERG/SG/OG members and Devolution Site

Every 48 hours

Level 2 • COO and OPPSD departs for Devolution Site

• DAA and NWS Operations Center Staff depart for Site B and Site C

• CFO/CAO departs for Site B

Upon announcement of COGCON change

Level 1 • All NWS DCP personnel move to their COOP locations

• All HQ NWS personnel without assigned

COOP duties follow OPM guidance

Upon COGCON change As directed


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Staff Readiness and Preparedness All NWS personnel must also prepare for a continuity event. NWS personnel should plan in advance what to do in an emergency and should develop a Family Support Plan to increase personal and family preparedness. To develop your Family Support Plan, use the templates available at www.ready.gov. This site includes a “Get Ready Now” pamphlet, which explains the importance of planning and provides a template that you and your family can use to develop your specific plan. DCP have the responsibility to create and maintain drive-away kits and are responsible for carrying the kits to the continuity facility. NWS has identified what these kits should contain in the following table: Drive Away Kit

• 2 forms of Identification and charge cards

o Government identification card (CAC)

o Driver’s license o Government travel card o

Health insurance card o Personal charge card

• Electronics o Government cell phone o Personal cell phone o Government Emergency Telephone

Service card (GETS) o Laptop/Tablet • Hand-carried vital records • Directions to continuity facility • Maps of surrounding area • Business and leisure clothing • COOP Plan

• Business and personal contact numbers o Emergency phone numbers and

addresses (relatives, medical doctor, pharmacist)

• Toiletries • Chargers/Extra Batteries for phones, GPS,

and laptop • Bottled water and non-perishable food (i.e.,

granola, dried fruit, etc.) • Medical needs

o Insurance information o List of allergies/blood type o Hearing aids and extra batteries o Glasses and contact lenses o Extra pair of eyeglasses/contact lenses o Prescription drugs (30-day supply) o Over-the-counter medications, dietary

supplements

http://www.ready.gov/

http://www.ready.gov/


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B. ACTIVATION AND RELOCATION PHASE To ensure the ability to attain operational capability at continuity sites and with minimal disruption to operations, NWS has developed activation and relocation plans, which are captured in the following sections, Activation and Relocation: Activation Based on the type and severity of the emergency situation, the NWS COOP Plan may be activated by one of the following methods:

• The President may initiate Federal Executive Branch continuity activation.

• The Secretary of Commerce, the NOAA Administrator, or a designated successor, may initiate the NWS COOP Plan activation for the entire organization, based on an emergency or threat directed at the organization.

• The NWS AA, or a designated successor, may initiate the NWS COOP Plan

activation for the entire organization, or any part of the plan therein, based on an emergency or threat directed at the organization.

The NWS COOP Plan activation and relocation are scenario-driven processes that allow flexible and scalable responses to the full spectrum of emergencies and other events that could disrupt operations with or without warning during duty and non-duty hours. The NWS COOP Plan activation is not required for all emergencies and disruptive situations, since other actions may be deemed appropriate. The decision to activate the NWS COOP Plan and corresponding actions to be taken are tailored for the situation, based upon projected or actual impact and severity, that may occur with or without warning. As the decision authority, the NWS AA will be kept informed of the threat environment using all available means, including official government intelligence reports, national/local reporting channels, and news media. The NWS AA will evaluate all available information relating to:

• direction and guidance from higher authorities; • health and safety of personnel; • ability to execute essential functions; • changes in readiness or advisory levels; • potential or actual effects on communication systems, information systems, office

facilities, and other vital equipment; and/or • expected duration of the emergency situation

Alert and Notification Procedures Prior to an event, personnel in NWS must monitor advisory information, including the DHS National Terrorism Advisory System, the Federal Government Response Stages for


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Pandemic Influenza, intelligence, and any other applicable systems. In the event normal operations are interrupted or if an incident appears imminent, NWS will take the following steps to communicate the organization’s operating status with all staff:

• The NWS AA or designated successor will notify the NOAA Administrator of the emergency requiring continuity activation.

• Upon NWS COOP activation, the NWS AA/DAA will use the NWS Senior

Management Telephone Notification List to alert all members of that list. If relocation is required, the Southern Region Director will activate the Devolution Site.

• After a NWS COOP activation has been announced, NWS Senior Leadership

will direct the NWS Operations Center to use the NOAA Everbridge Emergency Notification System to notify all NWS personnel with information regarding continuity activation and relocation status, operational and communication status, and the anticipated duration of relocation.

• If the NWSOC is not available, the NWS Senior Leadership will direct the

NWS COOP alert to be initiated by NOAA Homeland Security Program office, or superusers within NWS Regional Operations Centers, or by telephonic alerts rosters.

The NWSOC is responsible for notifying the following entities:

• Site B, Site C, and the Devolution Site and their on-site support teams with information regarding continuity activation and relocation status and the anticipated duration of relocation.

• FEMA Operations Center (FOC) via the RRS or telephone (540.665.6100 or

800.634.7084) and other applicable operations centers with information regarding continuity activation and relocation status, the NWS alternate location, operational and communication status, and anticipated duration of relocation.

Relocation Process Following activation of the plan and notification of personnel, NWS, DCP deploy to the assigned continuity facility to perform NWS essential functions and other continuity tasks. Map and directions to the continuity facility are found in the NOAA Quick Reference Guide. Emergency procedures during duty hours with, or without, warning are as follows:

• DCP will depart to their designated continuity facility from the primary operating facility or their current location using commercial air travel (ERG/OG) or privately owned vehicles (ERG/SG/OG). It may not be possible to preapprove travel using the normal methods and emergency travel approval methods may be


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instituted by the CFO.

• Individuals who are not DCP present at the primary operating facility or another location at the time of an emergency notification will receive instructions from their supervisor. In most scenarios, staff members will be directed to proceed to their homes, commence telework consistent with OPM guidance, and to await further guidance.

Emergency procedures during non-duty hours with or without a warning are as follows:

• DCP will depart to his/her assigned continuity facility from his/her current location using commercial air travel (ERG/OG) or privately owned vehicles (ERG/SG/OG). It may not be possible to preapprove travel using the normal methods and emergency travel approval methods may be instituted by the CFO.

• Individuals who are not DCP will remain at his or her residence to wait for further

instructions. Personnel not identified as DCP may be required to replace or augment the designated continuity personnel during activation. These activities will be coordinated by the NWS Group Directors (ERG,SG,OG) on a case-by-case basis. In the event of an activation of the NWS COOP Plan, NWS may need to procure necessary personnel, equipment, and supplies that are not already in place for continuity operations on an emergency basis. CFO/CAO maintains the authority for emergency procurement in accordance with established NWS/NOAA/Department of Commerce policies and procedures and CFO will direct implementation of any guidance concerning expedited procurement.

C. CONTINUITY OPERATIONS PHASE Upon activation of the NWS COOP Plan, NWS will continue to operate at its primary operating facility until ordered to cease operations by leadership using available communications methods. At that time, essential functions will transfer to the Devolution facility. NWS must ensure that the NWS COOP Plan can become operational within 12 hours of plan activation. As DCP arrive at their respective continuity site, the NWS Operations Center team will in-process the staff to ensure accountability. In-processing procedures are conducted in Site B and C in accordance with those facilities’ operating procedures. All personnel must bring their Common Access Card and a second form of identification. Upon arrival:

• Report to the Group Operations Center • Receive all applicable instructions and equipment • Report to their respective workspace as identified , or as otherwise notified during

the activation process • Retrieve pre-positioned information and activate specialized systems or equipment • Monitor the status of NWS personnel and resources


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• Continue NWS essential functions • Prepare and disseminate instructions and reports, as required • Comply with any additional continuity reporting requirements with the FOC • Notify family members, next of kin, and emergency contacts of preferred contact

methods and information NWS will use the following processes to account for all personnel: the NOAA Everbridge Emergency Notification System (initiated by NOAA Homeland Security Program office, or superusers within the NWS Operations Centers or the Regional Operations Centers), or by telephonic alerts rosters (initiated the NWS Senior Leadership).

D. RECONSTITUTION OPERATIONS PHASE Within 7 days of an emergency relocation, the following individuals will initiate and coordinate operations to salvage, restore, and recover the NWS primary operating facility after receiving approval from the appropriate local, State, and Federal law enforcement and emergency services:

• NWS Director of Facilities will serve as the Reconstitution Manager for all phases of the reconstitution process

• The Reconstitution Team of the SG will have staff responsibility for the

reconstitution effort. Reconstitution procedures will commence when the NWS AA or other authorized person ascertains that the emergency situation has ended and is unlikely to reoccur. Once the AA/DAA has made this determination in coordination with other Federal and/or other applicable authorities, one or a combination of the following options may be implemented, depending on the situation:

• Continue to operate from the continuity facility

• Reconstitute the NWS primary operating facility and begin an orderly return to the facility (The SSMC Complex is a leased facility and the decision to reoccupy is solely determined by the building’s owner)

• Begin to establish a reconstituted NWS in some other facility in the metro area or

at another designated location Prior to relocating to the current primary operating facility or another facility, NOAA will conduct appropriate security, safety, and health assessments to determine building suitability. In addition, NWS Facilities and the ACIO will verify that all systems, communications, and other required capabilities are available and operational and that NWS is fully capable of accomplishing all essential functions and operations at the new or restored facility. Upon a decision by the NWS AA, that the NWS primary operating facility can be reoccupied, or that NWS will re-establish itself in a different facility:


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• The NWS Reconstitution Manager or other authorized individual must notify the

FEMA Operations Center (FOC) via telephone (540.665.6100 or 800.634.7084) or RRS, when available, and other applicable operations centers with information regarding continuity activation and relocation status, the NWS alternate location, operational and communication status, and anticipated duration of relocation. NWS shall submit a Continuity Status Reporting Form, only if it contains more information beyond what has been reported, to [email protected], by fax to 940.323.2822, or using the form and procedures provided by FEMA’s National Continuity Programs Directorate or other specified continuity point-of-contact.

• NWS Operations Center will notify all personnel that the emergency or threat of

emergency has passed and actions required of personnel in the reconstitution process using all available communication methods

• NWS Reconstitution Manager will coordinate with the General Services

Administration (GSA) and/or other applicable facility management group to obtain office space for reconstitution, if the primary operating facility is uninhabitable

Upon verification that the required capabilities are available and operational and that NWS is fully capable of accomplishing all essential functions and operations at the new or restored facility, The NWS Reconstitution Manager will begin supervising a return of personnel, equipment, and documents to SSMC2, or a move to another temporary or permanent primary operating facility. NWS will continue to operate at its continuity facility until ordered to cease operations by NWS AA or at the direction of NOAA/DOC. At that time, essential functions will transfer to the primary operating facility. ACIO will oversee the transition of vital records and databases created during the NWS COOP activation, as well as other records that had not been designated as vital records, into normal recordkeeping systems. CFO/CAO, in conjunction with other agencies, is responsible for developing a process for receiving and processing employee claims during the continuity event, including processing human capital claims (including, workman’s compensation for injuries, overtime pay, etc) and replacing lost or broken equipment. NWS will conduct an After Action Review (AAR) once it is back in the primary operating facility or established in a new primary operating facility. The NWS COOP Program Manager has the responsibility for initiating and completing the AAR. All offices within NWS will have the opportunity to provide input to the AAR. This AAR will study the effectiveness of the NWS COOP Plans and procedures, identify areas for improvement, document these in the NWS corrective action program, and then develop a remedial action plan as soon as possible after the reconstitution.

mailto:[email protected]

mailto:[email protected]


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E. DEVOLUTION OF CONTROL AND DIRECTION NWS is prepared to transfer all of their essential functions and responsibilities to NWS Southern Region should emergency events render leadership or staff unavailable to support the execution of NWS essential functions. If deployment of DCP is not feasible due to the unavailability of personnel, temporary leadership of NWS will devolve to Director, NWS Southern Region, Fort Worth Texas.

• Devolution for the NWS is defined as the period from initiation of a continuity crisis, until the time the ERG commences operations. The NWS does not possess a devolution site large enough to enable relocation of the entire HQs.

• Devolution will begin upon order of the NOAA Administrator, the NWS AA, or his/

her designated successor.

• NWS Southern Regional Operations Center will function as the primary site for information requests, taskings, and operational matters upon devolution declaration.

• NWS Southern Region Director will function as the Assistant Administrator until the

AA assumes direction of the NWS from one of the continuity facilities or upon arrival of the COO to establish the OG.

NWS conducts and documents annual training of devolution staff and a quarterly exercise to ensure devolution capabilities are prepared and capable of performing essential functions. V. Organization and Assignment of Responsibilities The responsibilities of these key continuity personnel are delineated in Annex B. VI. Direction, Control, and Coordination During an activation of the NWS COOP Plan, the Assistant Administrator maintains responsibility for direction and control of NWS. Should the Assistant Administrator become unavailable or incapacitated; the organization will follow the directions laid out in Annex H. The contents and procedures laid forth in the NWS COOP Plan are consistent with the direction found in Federal Continuity Directive 1. As a result, this Plan and its concepts are integrated horizontally with other Federal executive branch organizations. Further, the Plan is reviewed and vetted by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Homeland Security Program Office, to ensure vertical integration within NOAA. VII. Communications NWS has identified available and redundant critical communication systems that are located at the primary operating facility and continuity facility. Further, NWS maintains fully capable continuity communications that could support organization needs during all hazards, to


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include pandemic and other related emergencies, and give full consideration to supporting social distancing operations including telework and other virtual offices. In addition, NWS maintains communications equipment for use by employees with disabilities and hearing impairment. All necessary and required communications and IT capabilities must be operational as soon as possible following continuity activation, and in all cases, within 12 hours of continuity activation. VIII. Plan Development and Maintenance The Continuity of Operations Program Manager is responsible for maintaining the NWS COOP Plan. NWS essential functions, and supporting activities, will be reviewed by NWS Chief Operating Officer and updated annually from the date of publication as part of the annual maintenance of NWS COOP Plans and procedures. The NWS Continuity of Operations Program Manager is responsible for the annual plan review and update. In addition, the plan will be updated or amended when there are significant organizational or procedural changes or other events that impact continuity processes or procedures. Comments or suggestions for improving this plan may be provided to the NWS Continuity of Operations Program Manager at any time.


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ANNEX A – Essential Functions I. Department of Commerce (DOC) Essential Functions:

DOC -2 - Collect and provide the Nation with critical intelligence data, imagery, and other essential information for predictive environmental and atmospheric modeling systems and space-based distress alert systems by operating NOAA controlled satellites, communications equipment, and associated systems. DOC – 3 - Provide the Nation with environmental forecasts, warning, data, and expertise critical to public safety, disaster preparedness, all-hazards response and recovery, the national transportation system, safe navigation and the protection of the Nation’s critical infrastructure and natural resources II. NWS Primary Mission Essential Functions

1. PMEF 1 – OBSERVATION – “Worldwide collection of space, atmosphere, water, and

climate observational data owned or leveraged by National Weather Service”. Observation platforms operated and maintained by the NWS include but are not limited to, Radars, Buoys, Cooperative and Automated Surface Observing Systems, and Radiosondes. Observation platforms leveraged by the NWS include, but are not limited to National Mesonets, Profilers, Aircraft, Voluntary Observing Ships (VOS), Satellites, and partner/commercial data. 2. PMEF 2 – CENTRAL PROCESSING – “Technical support for field operations and

services including observations, numerical prediction, modeling (including dispersion modeling), hydrologic applications (flooding, precipitation, water level), and weather and climate predictions and warnings”.

Continuity of systems that includes, but is not limited to the Weather and Climate Operational Supercomputing System (WCOSS), the Advanced Weather Interactive Processing System (AWIPS), hydrology information technology initiatives, and the information technology (IT) infrastructure supporting national centers and field operations. 3. PMEF 3 – DISSEMINATION – “Dissemination of NWS weather, water, and climate data

and information to the public to support sector-relevant economic productivity and to help communities, businesses, and governments understand and adapt to weather- and climate-related risks”.

Sustain Dissemination systems and back-up systems operational capability. The Telecommunications Gateway is the central weather warning, observation, and forecast collection and distribution portal; and weather data handling and exchange facility. ANNEX B – Roles and Responsibilities


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Assistant Administrator (ERG) will:

- Establish an NWS COOP Program, appoint a NWS COOP Program Manager (COOP PM), and approve NWS COOP plans and procedures.

- Move to Site C and assume responsibility for providing direction and leadership to address and recover from disruptions that impede NWS’ ability to perform the NWS Primary Mission Essential Functions.

- Designate in writing, an alternate ERG Director with all necessary authorities and responsibilities. - Function as a member of the NOAA Administrator’s staff during the activation of the NOAA COOP Plan. Deputy Assistant Administrator (ERG) will: - Move to Site C - Assume all duties and responsibilities of the Director, NWS, in their absence; - Focus on communication with NWS staff and external partners. - Through the Chief of Staff, ensure staff provides support to the NOAA Operations Center. Chief Operating Officer (OG) will: - Move to Devolution Site and conduct an assessment of remaining capabilities, personnel, facilities, and equipment. Report operational status to ERG/SG. - Assume operational control of the NWS Regional and Centers to maintain accomplishment of PMEFs. - Cross-level within the NWS regional structure to fill critical positions and direct assets and resources to assist contingency operations. - Serves as Director of the OG; maintains coordination with ERG/SG through interlinked operations centers. Chief Financial Officer/Chief Administrative Officer (SG) will: - Move to Site B and establish the Administrative/Facilities Group; serves as Director of the SG. - Direct the functions of the Accountability, Resources, Reconstitution, and Facilities teams. - Maintains coordination with ERG/SG through interlinked operations centers. Ensure ERG has CFO staffing (Deputy CFO) and has IMPAC card support.


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Director, Office Planning & Programming for Service Delivery (OG) will: - Move to Devolution Site and conduct an assessment of remaining OPPSD capabilities, personnel, facilities, and equipment. Report operational status to ERG/SG. - Direct OPPSD assets to support contingency and reconstitution operations. - Serve as the Deputy Chief Operating Officer to support 24 hour operations Director, Office of Observations (OG) - Move to Devolution Site; conduct an assessment of remaining OO capabilities, personnel, facilities, and equipment. Coordinate maintenance support to contingency and reconstitution efforts. Director, Office of Central Processing (SG) - Move to Site B; conduct an assessment of remaining CP capabilities, personnel, facilities, and equipment. Move as necessary to backup High Speed Computing Center. Report operational status to OG. Director, Office of Dissemination (SG) - Move to Site B; conduct an assessment of remaining OD capabilities, personnel, facilities, and equipment. Report operational status to OG. Director, Office of Facilities (SG) – Move to Site B; conduct an assessment of facilities, damage reports and estimates. Responsible for acquisition of temporary space as required by NWS to reconstitute. Director, National Centers for Environmental Prediction (OG) - Move to Site B (only if NCEP location is unusable): and conduct an assessment of remaining NCEP capabilities, personnel, facilities, and equipment. Report operational status to OG. - Determine assets that can be moved, relocated, or remotely administered to ensure critical programs can continue under contingency conditions. - Direct the actions of the NCEP COOP annex to this plan. Director, Office of Water Prediction (OG) - - Move to National Water Center and conduct an assessment of remaining OWP/NWC capabilities, personnel, facilities, and equipment. Report operational status to OG. - Directs the actions of the OWP/NWC COOP annex to this plan. Director, Analyze, Forecast, and Support Office (SG) - Move to Site B and conduct an assessment of remaining AFSO capabilities, personnel, facilities, and equipment. Report operational status to ERG/SG/OG.


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- Ensure funding continues to move to regions/centers to support contingency operations. - Ensure the Aviation Weather Branch Chief moves to FAA Command Center to support operations. - Serve as the Deputy Director of the SG to support 24 hour operations. Chief of Staff (ERG) - Move with appropriate staff to Site C/SR HQ and provide support to NWS leadership. - Provide support to NOAA staff. Assistant CIO (SG) – Move to Site B and assist SG operations Operations Division Chief (SG) - Moves to Site B, assumes duty as Team Lead for Operations Team - Ensures Site C has adequate Operations Center personnel assigned to support 24 hour operations Continuity of Operations Program Manager (ERG) - Moves to Site C, provides staff recommendations to the ERG on NWS COOP matters. ERG/SG/OG - Develop and conduct COOP Plan tests/exercises to support NWS COOP Plan implementation. Southern Region Director- Serves as the Devolution Site Director – acts as the Director, NWS under a Delegation of Authority until relieved by the ERG/SG/OG Director Eastern Region Director – Be prepared to conduct the reception function at Site C as per the Site C Reception Plan (TBP) Regional Directors (RDs) and Center Directors – provide support to ERG/SG/OG, partners and customers.


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- Continue to provide mission essential services port contingency operations as directe - Be prepared to cross-level personnel to address shortages

ANNEX C - NWS COOP Flowchart

COOP Activated by POTUS, DoC, NOAA

or NWS AA

NWSOC Available?

Activates NWS Senior Management Telephone Notification List

AA/DAA/COO

NWSOC Uses ENS to Alert DCP, Sites, Regions /Centers, all HQ NWS staff

HSPO/Rocs uses ENS to Alert DCP, Regions and

Centers, all HQ NWS staff

NO

YES

Relocation Required?

All NWS HQ personnel report to normal work locations consistent with OPM guidance

DCP report to Sites and Devolution Site assumes

control of NWS

Non DCP personnel Follow OPM guidance

ERG or SG or SG Established

ERG or SG or SG Assumes

control of NWS and Devolution ends

Activation ends And SSMC2 Available?

All NWS HQ personnel report to normal work locations consistent with OPM guidance

Personnel work from alternate locations as

directed by the Reconstitution

Manager

NO

YES

YES NO

ALER

T PH

ASE

DEVO

LUTI

ON

RE

LOCA

TIO

N

PHAS

E RE

CON

STIT

UTI

ON

PH

ASE


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ANNEX D - NWS Organization for COOP The NWS will be organized into three groups to support COOP. The groups will be functionally organized into teams. The three groups are:

• Emergency Readiness Group (ERG) – located at Site C. This is the Headquarters and leadership group for the NWS.

• Support Group (SG) – Located at Site B. This group is focuses on accountability,

financial support, logistics, and reconstitution.

• Operational Group (OG) – Located at the Devolution Site. This group focuses on maintaining the Primary Mission Essential Functions of the NWS until the crisis is resolved.

Each of these groups will be linked to each other by teams from the NWS Operations Center (ERG and SG) and the Southern Regional Operations Centers (OG). Using Web EOC (FEMA/NOAA tasking/inquiry support software), NWS Chat (real-time chat), Everbridge Emergency Notification System (Accountability and messaging), and the NWS Operations Center Web Portal (information sharing), the Operations Teams will provide briefings, manage taskings and answer/research inquiries. Emergency Relocation Group – This group consists of three teams:

• The Leadership Team – The AA, DAA and their assistants – Responsible for providing direction to the NWS and representing the NWS position to the NOAA/DOC/WH staff. Lead by AA.

• The Leadership Support Team – NWS Chief of Staff, Congressional Affairs, Deputy

CFO, Public Affairs Officer, IMPAC Credit card holder, and others as designated. Responsible for assisting the Leadership Team and ensuring NWS is supporting NOAA requirements. Responsible for internal and external communications. Led by Chief of Staff.

• The Operations Team – Operations Center Team Lead and 2 Ops Center staff. NOAA

Senior Management Team representative, Continuity of Operations Program Manager. Responsible for maintaining communications with the SG and OG. Handles taskings, information requests and provides answers to inquiries Led by SMT.

Upon activation, the ERG deploys to Site C. Upon arrival, the ERG integrates into the NOAA staff and the NOAA Operations Center. The ERG will be focused on providing direction to the NWS under contingency conditions, and to act as the focal point for inquires, taskings, and communications for the NWS. The ERG will be part of the NOAA staff, and will provide personnel to support the NOAA Senior Management Team.


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Support Group (SG) – Led by CFO/CAO. This group consists of four teams.

• Accountability Team – Strategic Manpower/CFO 2 and 2 staff members. – Responsible for providing obtaining accountability and supporting the cross-leveling/replacement operations that may be required.

• Financial Support Team – CFO1 and 7 staff members – Responsible for ensuring the

flow of funding, maintenance of records, and financial reporting required by the emergency. Responsible for providing contracting and IMPAC card support to the SG and coordinating transportation requirements.

• Reconstitution Team – Office of Facilities Director and four staff members (Facilities

and ACIO) . Responsible for planning reconstitution of facilities, and provision of alternate facilities as needed.

• Operations Team – NWSOC Team Lead and 2 Ops Center staff. Responsible for

maintaining communications with the ERG and OG. Handles taskings, information requests and provides answers to inquiries Led by NWSOC Team Lead.

Operational Group (OG) - This group consists of two teams:

Accountability Team

Financial Support Team

Operations Team

Reconstitution Team

Group Leader

Support Group (SG)

Leadership Support Team

Leadership Team

Operations Team

Emergency Relocation Group (ERG)


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• Operational Control Team – Chief Operating Officer; Director, OPPSD; Director,

Office of Observations; and Director, Office of Dissemination. Responsible for maintaining PMEF functions of the regions and centers. Responsible for cross-leveling and tasking within the NWS to support contingency operations. Led by the COO.

• Operations Team – Southern Regional Operations Center staff. Responsible for

maintaining communications with the ERG and SG. Handles taskings, information requests and provides answers to inquiries Led by SR ROC Team Chief.

NO DIAGRAM REQUIRED Additional NWS COOP Support Facilities and Organizations

• AFSO, Aviation Services s Branch Chief will move to FAA Command Center to provide additional to the FAA. Reports to Support Group.

• Director, Office of Central Processing may move as necessary to provide support to

Central Processing assets.

• Directors of Office of Water Predication and National Water Center – Establishes contingency operations at National Water Center. Reports to Operations Group.

• Director, National Centers for Environmental Prediction – Establishes contingency

operations in accordance with their COOP Annexes. Reports to Operations Group


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ANNEX E – NWS COOP Timelines

Event Time to Complete

Action or Agency Responsible Terminates

COOP Activation N/A Crisis situation as determined by POTUS, DoC, NOAA, NWS AA

Crisis ends or Reconstitution complete

COOP Alert Notification 4 hours

AA/DAA/COO/NWSOC notifies DCP, Regions, Centers, Devolution Site and NWS HQ staff members; Alternate: HSPO of ROCs conduct the notification of DCP, Regions, Centers, Devolution Site and NWS HQ staff members;

Alert remains in effect until 100% accountability

Devolution Site takes control of NWS operations 4 hours

SR Director assumes control upon notification by AA/DAA/COO/NWSOC

Upon establishment of ERG, SR is notified of termination by ERG Operations Team.

DCP move to respective sites 12 hours Using expedited travel procedures as directed by the CFO

ERG/SG/OG established

Accountability 96 hours

Initial accountability established by responses to ENS, completed by Accountability Team of SG

100% accountability

Reconstitution Planning 30 days

Begins with establishment of Reconstitution Team of SG

With reoccupation of primary facility or occupation of alternate facility.


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ANNEX F – Vital Records Management “Vital records” refers to information systems and applications, electronic and hardcopy documents, references, and records, to include classified or sensitive data, needed to support PMEFs and MEFs during a continuity event. NWS uses the consolidated NOAA Essential Records server to maintain its essential records. As soon as possible after activation of the NWS COOP Plan, but in all cases within 12 hours of activation, DCP at the continuity facility for NWS must have access to the records . Vital File, Record, or Database

Support to Essential

Form of Record (e.g., hardcopy, electronic)

Pre- positioned at Continuity

Hand Carried to Continuit

Multiple Storage Location(s) Y/N

Maintenance Frequency

AWIPS DOC 1, 2

System Y Monthly

WCOSS DOC 1, 2

System Y Quarterly

NAM DOC 1, 2

System Y Annually

Telecommunications Gateway

DOC 1, 2

System N Monthly

NWS COOP Plan NWS PMEF

Electronic and Hardcopy

X

X

Y

Quarterly


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ANNEX G - Continuity Facilities Information NWS has designated continuity facilities as part of its continuity of operations plan and has prepared ERG personnel for the possibility of unannounced relocation to these sites to continue essential functions. NWS has three continuity facilities: Site B – Sterling Field Support Center - 43741 Weather Service Road Sterling, VA 20166. This facility is owned by the NWS. Site C - Robert H. Mollohan Research Center - 1000 Technology Drive | Suite 1000 | Fairmont, WV 26554. This facility is owned by the High Technology Foundation, and space is leased by NOAA. The uniquely designed facility was substantially completed in 2006 and contains a 180-seat auditorium with breakout rooms and a large exhibition hall that can accommodate large functions such as trade shows, formal dinners and large meeting groups. The building also has space for food service and wellness center. The building is served by a 2,000 KW backup generator, a 350 KW emergency generator and a 1,200 KW Uninterrupted Power System. The building has fiber optic and Cat 6 wiring throughout the facility. The building also itself utilizes a 10 Gigabit/ second fiber optic backbone throughout. Devolution Site – NWS Southern Region Headquarters - 819 Taylor Street, Room 10A06, Fort Worth, TX 76102 – Located in the Fritz G. Lanham Federal Office Building. This building is owned by the General Services Administration.


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ANNEX H – Orders of Succession and Delegation of Authority A. ORDERS OF SUCCESSION NWS’s orders of succession are: In the event of a change in leadership status, NWS must notify the successors, as well as internal and external stakeholders. In the event the NWS leadership becomes unreachable or incapable of performing their authorized legal duties, roles, and responsibilities, The NWS COOP Program Manager will initiate a notification of the next successor in line. NOTE: Personnel who in an acting capacity as not eligible to be designated as successors to a position. If there is an individual in an acting capacity, that person is skipped, and the succession goes to the first permanent (not in an acting capacity) B. DELEGATIONS OF AUTHORITY Generally, NWS pre-determined delegations of authority will take effect when normal channels of direction are disrupted and terminate when these channels have resumed. Pre-determined delegations of authority may be particularly important in a devolution scenario. The delegation of authority format is found as an appendix to this Annex Delegations of authorities are found at the continuity facility and at with the NWS COOP Program Manager. Delegations of authority are included as vital records. They are written:

• Are written in accordance with applicable laws ensuring that the organization’s PMEFs and MEFs are performed.

• Outline explicitly in a statement the authority of an official to re-delegate functions

Primary 1st Successor 2nd Successor Assistant Administrator

Deputy Assistant Administrator

Chief Operating Officer

Deputy Assistant Administrator


Director, OPPSD


Director, AFSO Director, Southern Region

Director, OPPSD Director, Observations

Director, Central Processing

CFO/CAO Deputy CFO CFO 1 Director Field Directors, in order of date of Appointment to the Senior Executive Service (SES)


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and activities, as appropriate.

• Delineate the limits of and any exceptions to the authority and accountability for officials

• Define the circumstances, to include a devolution situation if applicable, under which delegations of authorities would take effect and would be terminated

NWS has informed those officials who might be expected to assume authorities during a continuity situation. Documentation that this has occurred is found in the vital records and at the continuity facility. Further, NWS has trained those officials who might be expected to assume authorities during a continuity situation at least annually for all pre-delegated authorities for making policy determinations and all levels using approved training materials. A sample Delegation of Authority letter is enclosed as an appendix to this annex.


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Issue Date: DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY AND SUCCESSION FOR THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE PURPOSE This is a delegation of authority for the continuity of essential functions through the orderly succession of officials at the NWS to the Office of __________________ in case of the ____________’s absence, a vacancy at that office, or the inability of the [Organization Head] to act during a disaster or national security emergency. DELEGATION I hereby delegate authority to the following officials, in the order listed below, to exercise the powers and perform the duties of the [insert title of organization head], in case of my absence, inability to perform, or vacancy of the office, and until that condition ceases. In the event that the Office of the [insert title of organization head] is vacant as that term is used in the Federal Vacancies Reform Act of 1998, the [insert title] shall act until a successor is appointed.

1. [Insert order of succession here] The individual serving in the #1 position identified above, is hereby designated the “First Assistant” for the purposes of the Federal Vacancies Reform Act of 1998. If this position is vacant, the next designated official in the order of succession may exercise all the powers, duties, authorities, rights, and functions of the Office of the [insert title of organization head], but may not perform any function or duty required to be performed exclusively by the office holder. Eligibility for succession to the Office of the [insert title of organization head] shall be limited to officially assigned incumbents of the positions listed in the order of succession, above. Only officials specifically designed in the approved order of succession are eligible. Persons appointed on an acting basis, or on some other temporary basis, are ineligible to serve as a successor; therefore, the order of succession would fall to the next designated official in the approved order of succession. AUTHORITIES The Homeland Security Act of 2002, P.L. 107-296, as amended. The Federal Vacancies Reform Act of 1998, 5 U.S.C. § 3345, et seq., as amended. [Insert other applicable authorities here] OFFICE OF PRIMARY INTEREST The Office of the [insert title of organization head] is the office of primary interest in this delegation. CANCELLATION [Insert previous delegation of authority] to Office of the [insert title of organization head] is hereby rescinded. [Organization Head signs here]


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[Enter Organization Head’s name here] [Enter Organization Head’s title here] [Enter Organization Name here] [Enter date here] [General Counsel signs here] [Enter General Counsel’s name here] [Enter General Counsel’s title here] [Enter Organization Name here] [Enter date here]


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ANNEX I – Human Capital People are critical to the operations of any organization. Choosing the right people for an organization’s staff is vitally important, and this is especially true in a crisis situation. Certain personnel members will be designated, both in writing and in their personnel files, as continuity staff members. This means they have a direct role in COOP contingency plans and operations. Most of the NWS staff will not have a formal role, but during a continuity event, employees may be activated by the NWS to perform assigned response duties. Designated Continuity Personnel DCP are officially informed of their roles or designations by providing documentation in the form of a written memorandum to ensure that continuity personnel know and accept their roles and responsibilities. Copies of this documentation is maintained by the NWS COOP Program Manager. All Staff It is important that the NWS keeps all staff members, especially individuals not identified as DCP, informed and accounted for during a continuity event. There are established procedures for contacting and accounting for employees in the event of an emergency, including operating status. The NWS will use the Emergency Alert Notification System, and may use electronic means and telephony to stay in communication with the staff. All NWS employees are expected to remain in contact with their supervisory chain during any closure or relocation situation. This can be electronic communications or telephonic. Accounting for all personnel during a continuity event is of utmost importance. In order to account for all staff, NWS will use the Emergency Alert Notification System and telephonic call rosters to account for the staff. Communications may be disrupted during a COOP event, and this may cause significant delays in accountability. Personnel without designated COOP duties, should follow OPM guidance for the National Capital Region and telework until told to do otherwise. Human Capital Considerations The NWS does not have its own personnel management system, and relies on the NOAA Workforce Management for all matters relating to human capital. Established personnel policies may be modified as a result of a COOP declaration, but those decisions are based on the type and nature of the declaration.


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ANNEX J – Test, Training, and Exercises Program NWS maintains a TT&E program that complies with the DHS- mandated National Exercise Program, as appropriate. NWS provides organizational assistance to FEMA in conducting annual full-scale continuity exercises and biennial assessments of the organization’s continuity program to support reports submitted to the NCC and the President or other applicable senior officials. NWS performs TT&E events at regular intervals, in accordance with the requirements specified in FCD 1, throughout the year as depicted in the following table. Continuity TT&E Requirements Monthly Quarterly Annually As

Required Test and validate equipment to ensure internal and external interoperability and viability of

Test alert, notification, and activation procedures for all continuity personnel

Test primary and backup infrastructure systems and services at continuity facilities

Test capabilities to perform MEFs Test plans for recovering vital records, critical information systems services and data

Test and exercise of required physical security capabilities at continuity facilities

Test internal and external interdependencies with respect to performance of MEFs

Train continuity personnel on roles and

Conduct continuity awareness briefings or orientation for the entire workforce

Train organization’s leadership on PMEFs and

Train personnel on all reconstitution plans and

Allow opportunity for continuity personnel to demonstrate familiarity with NWS COOP Plans and procedures and demonstrate organization’s

bilit t ti ti l f ti

Conduct exercise that incorporates the deliberate and preplanned movement of continuity personnel to continuity facilities

Conduct assessment of organization’s continuity TT&E programs and NWS COOP Plans and

Report findings of all annual assessments as directed to FEMA

Conduct successor training for all organization personnel who assume the authority and responsibility of the organization’s leadership if that leadership is incapacitated or becomes


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Train on the identification, protection, and ready availability of electronic and hardcopy documents, references, records, information systems, and data management software and equipment needed to support essential functions

Test capabilities for protecting classified and unclassified vital records and for providing access to them from the continuity facility

Train on an organization’s devolution option for continuity, addressing how the organization will identify and conduct its essential functions during

i d th t it ti i th ft th

Conduct personnel briefings on NWS COOP Plans that involve using or relocating to continuity facilities existing facilities or virtual offices

Allow opportunity to demonstrate intra- and interagency continuity communications capability

NWS formally documents and reports all conducted continuity TT&E events, including documenting the date of the TT&E event, the type of event, and names of participants. Documentation also includes test results, feedback forms, participant questionnaires, and any other documents resulting from the event. Continuity TT&E documentation for NWS is managed by NWS COOP Program Manager. NWS has developed a Corrective Action Program (CAP) to assist in documenting, prioritizing, and resourcing continuity issues identified during continuity TT&E activities, assessments, and emergency operations. The NWS CAP incorporates evaluations, after-action reports, and lessons learned from a cycle of events into the development and implementation of its CAP. The NWS CAP is maintained by the NWS COOP Program Manager.


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ANNEX K. Glossary Activation – Once a continuity of operations plan has been implemented, whether in whole or in part, it is considered “activated.” Agency head – The highest-ranking official of the primary occupant agency, or a successor or designee who has been selected by that official. Alert - The process of communication that an incident has taken place, and/or the actions required as a result of the incident. Alternate facilities – Locations, other than the primary facility, used to carry out essential functions, particularly in a continuity event. “Alternate facilities” refers to not only other locations, but also nontraditional options such as working at home (“teleworking”), telecommuting, and mobile-office concepts. Catastrophic emergency – Any incident, regardless of location, that results in extraordinary levels of mass casualties, damage, or disruption severely affecting the U.S. population, infrastructure, environment, economy, or government functions. Continuity – An uninterrupted ability to provide services and support, while maintaining organizational viability, before, during, and after an event. Continuity capability – The ability of an organization to continue to perform its essential functions, using continuity of operations and continuity of government programs and continuity requirements that have been integrated into the organization’s daily operations, with the primary goal of ensuring the preservation of our form of government under the Constitution and the continuing performance of National Essential Functions (NEFs) under all conditions. Building upon a foundation of continuity planning and continuity program management, the pillars of a continuity capability are leadership, staff, communications, and facilities. Continuity facilities – Locations, other than the primary facility, used to carry out essential functions, particularly in a continuity situation. “Continuity facilities” refers to not only other locations, but also nontraditional options such as working at home (“teleworking”), telecommuting, and mobile-office concepts. Continuity of Government (COGCON) – A coordinated effort within the Federal Government’s executive branch to ensure that National Essential Functions continue to be performed during a catastrophic emergency. Continuity of Government Readiness Condition (COGCON) – A system for establishing, measuring, and reporting the readiness of executive branch continuity programs, which is independent of other Federal Government readiness systems. Continuity of Operations– Continuity of Operations - An effort within the Executive Branch departments and agencies to ensure that Mission Essential Functions (MEFs) and Primary Mission Essential Functions (PMEFs) continue to be performed during a wide range of emergencies

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Continuity event – Any event that causes an agency to relocate its operations to an alternate or other continuity site to assure continuance of its essential functions. Continuity personnel - Those personnel, both senior and core, who provide the leadership advice, recommendations, and functional support necessary to continue essential operations. COOP Plan – The plan to enable the NWS to organize for, execute, and recover from COOP activation. Designated Continuity Personnel - NWS personnel who have been designated in writing to report to an alternate facility, as required to perform agency essential functions or other tasks related to continuity operations. Delegation of authority – Identification, by position, of the authorities for making policy determinations and decisions at headquarters, field levels, and all other organizational locations. Generally, pre-determined delegations of authority will take effect when normal channels of direction have been disrupted and will lapse when these channels have been reestablished. Devolution – The capability to transfer statutory authority and responsibility for essential functions from an agency’s primary operating staff and facilities to other agency employees and facilities, and to sustain that operational capability for an extended period. Emergency Notification System – Electronic system used to send alert messages via email, text, and telephone. Responses to messages are used to track accountability. Essential functions – The critical activities performed by organizations, especially after a disruption of normal activities. There are three categories of essential functions: National Essential Functions (NEFs), Primary Mission Essential Functions (PMEFs), and Mission Essential Functions (MEFs). Federal Continuity Directive – A document developed and promulgated by DHS, in coordination with the Continuity Advisory Group and in consultation with the Continuity Policy Coordination Committee, which directs executive branch departments and agencies to carry out identified continuity planning requirements and assessment criteria. FEMA Operations Center – A continuously operating entity of DHS, which is responsible for monitoring emergency operations and promulgating notification of changes to COGCON status. Homeland Security Program Office – the section of NOAA’s staff that functions as an Operations Center during periods of increased activity, or during an emergency Mission Essential Functions – The limited set of agency-level Government functions that must be continued throughout, or resumed rapidly after, a disruption of normal activities. NWS Senior Leadership – The AA, DAA, and COO of the NWS, or their designated successors. Normal Operations – Generally and collectively, “normal operations” refer to the broad functions undertaken by an organization when it is assigned responsibility for a given functional area; these functions include day to day tasks, planning and execution of tasks. Orders of succession – Provisions for the assumption by individuals of senior agency office leadership positions during an emergency in the event that any of those officials are unavailable to execute their legal duties.

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Primary Facility – The facility used for normal operations, e.g SSMC2 for NWS HQ personnel. Primary Mission Essential Functions – Those department and agency Mission Essential Functions, validated by the NCC, which must be performed in order to support the performance of NEFs before, during, and in the aftermath of an emergency. PMEFs need to be continuous or resumed within 12 hours after an event and maintained for up to 30 days or until normal operations can be resumed. Reconstitution – The process by which surviving and/or replacement agency personnel resume normal agency operations from the original or replacement primary operating facility. Recovery – The implementation of prioritized actions required to return an organization’s processes and support functions to operational stability following an interruption or disaster. Site – one of the three locations that will serve as functional centers during COOP activation: Site B, Site C, Devolution Site. Silver Spring Metro Complex Building 2 – the primary operating facility of the NWS Headquarters. Super users – ENS users who have full administrative rights to issues alerts on a regional/national basis. Telework – The ability to work at a location other than the official duty station to perform work or emergency duties. This may include, but is not limited to, using portable computers, personal computers, high-speed telecommunications links, and mobile communications devices. Testing, training, and exercises (TT&E) – Measures to ensure that an agency’s continuity plan is capable of supporting the continued execution of the agency’s essential functions throughout the duration of a continuity situation. Vital records – Electronic and hardcopy documents, references, and records that are needed to support essential functions during a continuity situation. The two basic categories of vital records are (1) emergency operating records and (2) rights and interests records.

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ANNEX B - Guidance for Region/Center COOP Plans It is understood that the basic information in the NWS Headquarters COOP Plan applies to the organization as a whole. The Primary Mission Essential Functions (PMEF) are the same for all organizations in the NWS, even though individual organizations may have different pieces of those missions. It is, therefore, not necessary to restate much of the information contained in that plan. Your plan should concentrate on those areas that are significantly different from the NWS HQ plan. In order to keep the administrative overhead of COOP planning to a minimum, your COOP plan should consist of the following: 1. A promulgation statement signed by the region/center director. This statement, in essence, is the formalizes the authority of the plan and establishes the requirement for individuals of that organization to comply with the plan. The following example is provided:

(Unit Abbreviation) Continuity of Operations Plan

Promulgation Statement The (unit) supports the overall NOAA and NWS mission by working to save lives, mitigate property loss, and improve economic efficiency by (insert unit mission). To accomplish its mission, (unit) must ensure operations continue, with minimal disruptions to their Essential Functions, especially during an emergency. To support this mission, (unit) must be prepared to continue its Essential Functions during any type of threat or emergency and to effectively resume its mission and Essential Functions if an interruption threatens. This document provides planning and program guidance to ensure the continuation of the (unit)’s PMEFs in the event the (unit) primary operating facility in (Location of primary facility) is unavailable. This Plan has been developed in accordance with guidance in National Security Presidential Directive 51/Homeland Security Presidential Directive 20, National Continuity Policy; the National Continuity Policy Implementation Plan; Federal Continuity Directive 1 (FCD 1), Federal Executive Branch National Continuity Program and Requirements; and other related Directives and guidance. Per FCD 1, the Director of (unit) will annually (fiscal year) submit documentation to (unit’s higher HQ) certifying that the office has a Continuity Plan and the date of its signature, and that the office participates in an annual exercise that incorporates the deliberate and preplanned movement of Continuity personnel to an alternate site, and the date of the last exercise. NWS maintains records of this certification and provides this information to Headquarters. (Director’s Name) (Director’s Duty Position) National Weather Service

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Distribution: (Higher HQs) (Units that support this plan) (Units that are supported by this plan) 2. A table (provided) that shows the location(s) that your organization’s leadership and Designated Continuity Personnel (DCP) would relocate to in case of a COOP activation. 3. Directions on the actions that should be taken by personnel who are not required to relocate (e.g. Tele-work, follow OPM guidance, etc) 4. Actions upon activation: 3 A statement on how your organization would conduct an alert to notify personnel that COOP has been activated and the methods that would be used to notify your subordinate organizations (if any) of your status. Identify who is responsible for providing notification of your status to NWS Headquarters. 4. Order of Succession (3 levels: Primary, 1st Alternate, 2nd Alternate 5. Service Backup a. Regions: A copy of your service backup plan – this is the primary document that demonstrates your capability to continue to provide PMEF during a COOP activation. b. Centers: A copy of your service backup plan, or a completed chart (provided) that delineates organizations and/or locations that could assume a specific function (if your primary location was unavailable) that is unique to your organization (e.g. the Climate Prediction Center mission is unique to NCEP). It is highly recommended that copies of any Memorandums of Agreement/Memorandums of Understanding that support your service backup plans are available at your primary and alternate locations. The MOA/MOU are not required to be submitted as part of this plan. COOP planning in the NWS does not formally (requiring written COOP plans/Annexes) extend below the Region/Center level. This does not prohibit your organization from ensuring any subordinate organizations conduct adequate preparation for COOP. This does not remove or alter the requirements for all organizations to have facility evacuation plans and to test those plans regularly.

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- The location(s) that Region/Center leadership and Designated Continuity Personnel (DCP) would relocate to in case of a COOP activation. - A statement on the actions that should be taken by personnel who are not required to relocate (e.g. Tele-work, follow OPM guidance, etc) - A statement on how the Region/Center would conduct an alert to notify personnel that COOP has been activated and the methods that would be used to notify subordinate organizations (if any) of Region/Center status. Regions/Centers must identify a method for for providing notification of status to NWS Headquarters. - Order of Succession for Region/Center Director (3 levels: Primary, 1st Alternate, 2nd Alternate - Service Backup Plan – See NWSI 1-2201 Backup Operations

Documents

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