This new cooling tower will improve the efficiency of the air conditioning by using a system that applies water to cool the coils when the system needs additional cooling capacity and operates dry otherwise. The HVAC system provides necessary ventilation, which includes UV purification, and cooling. This is particularly important since the facility serves as an emergency coordination location for NOAA and other emergency responders. This significant update is in addition to other recent updates on the facility security system and video wall which improve the security and operational capabilities of the DRC.

The DRC has established an unprecedented regional preparedness and response presence in the Gulf of Mexico region and is where most of OR&R’s Disaster Preparedness Program staff are located. The facility has brought together NOAA-wide resources to enhance preparedness, planning, and response capabilities for natural and human-caused disasters along the Gulf Coast.