NOAA Weather Radio Frequencies
The 7 NOAA Weather Radio frequencies from 162.400 to 162.550 MHz, how WX channel numbers differ by radio, and how SAME alerts work. No license needed.
NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards is a network of more than 1,000 transmitters run by the National Weather Service. It broadcasts forecasts and warnings around the clock, and it also carries non-weather emergency alerts.
Each transmitter uses one of seven frequencies. Radios label them WX1âWX7, but manufacturers do not all number them the same way, so check the frequency, not just the channel number.
NOAA Weather Radio frequencies
| Frequency (MHz) | Common channel label (marine-style numbering) |
|---|---|
| 162.400 | WX2 |
| 162.425 | WX4 |
| 162.450 | WX5 |
| 162.475 | WX3 |
| 162.500 | WX6 |
| 162.525 | WX7 |
| 162.550 | WX1 |
Licensing and rules
- NOAA Weather Radio is receive-only. No license is needed to own or listen to a weather radio.
- Typical reception range is about 40 miles from a transmitter, less in rugged terrain.
Practical tips
- Choose a radio with SAME (Specific Area Message Encoding) and enter your county code so it only alarms for your area.
- Look up your nearest transmitter and frequency on the National Weather Service NWR station listing.
- A hand-crank or battery weather radio keeps working when the power and cell network are down.
Frequently asked questions
What frequency is NOAA Weather Radio on?
One of seven frequencies between 162.400 and 162.550 MHz, depending on your local transmitter: 162.400, 162.425, 162.450, 162.475, 162.500, 162.525 or 162.550 MHz.
Why do WX channel numbers differ between radios?
NOAA identifies transmitters by frequency, not channel number. Many radios use the marine numbering (WX1 = 162.550 MHz), but some number them in frequency order, so always match the frequency.