Abstract The three components of the Regional Analysis and Forecast System (RAFS) of the National Meteorological Center (NMC) are described. This system was implemented in March 1985 to supplement guidance from NMC's limited-area fine-mesh model (LFM), especially for precipitation forecasting. The three components of the RAFS are the regional optimum interpolation analysis, the Baer–Tribbia nonlinear normal mode initialization, and the nested grid model—a grid point, primitive-equation model in sigma coordinates. Postprocessing of model forecasts and plans for system improvement are also discussed.