Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

NOAA Cuts Weather Facilities, Threatens Hurricane Forecasting Accuracy

7/3/2025

30 2

Summary

Story summary

The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is set to shutter vital weather and climate facilities, including the Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory, by 2026. Coupled with the Department of Defense's satellite data cutoff, this move jeopardizes hurricane forecasting accuracy, putting lives and property at risk during critical storm seasons.

History

Historical Context

Hurricane Katrina struck New Orleans in 2005, causing over 1,800 deaths and $125 billion in damages. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has since improved hurricane forecasting, yet the proposed closure of its Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory threatens these advancements. This situation underscores the critical need for effective meteorological support amid increasing climate change challenges.

1 of 2

Story summary

The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is set to shutter vital weather and climate facilities, including the Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory, by 2026. Coupled with the Department of Defense's satellite data cutoff, this move jeopardizes hurricane forecasting accuracy, putting lives and property at risk during critical storm seasons.

1 / 2