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<br />graphical overlays such as lightning strikes. These products can be used alongside the standard <br />text information to enhance the worded NWS warnings and statements. Geographic inform:l1.10n .a. <br />is provided in image form including topography and land use/vegetation. A number of map (,ver- . <br />lays such as cities, roads, stream basins, and mountain ranges can assist with making weather- <br />related decisions. Finally, several interactive products permit the user to query information foI' <br />specific areas, and to set weather-related thresholds to suit their decision making needs. <br /> <br />As we move through the NWS modernization, we will be learning how to disseminate important <br />weather information that users in emergency management can use efficiently. The LDAD project <br />is exploring both the technologies and products that can be used to meet this goal. Internet capa- <br />bilities are also being evaluated as a forum for exchanging weather information. A limited exper- <br />imental version of EMDS can be found at http://monitod is/.noaa.gov/. A questionnaire has been <br />conducted to gather information from emergency management officials around the nation (see a <br />related paper in this volume). The goal of the modernized NWS can only be met when the <br />improved forecast guidance is accompanied by an equivalent improvement in how that guidance <br />is communicated to the users. <br /> <br />e <br /> <br />e <br />