Better Weather and Climate Forecasts: Investing in NOAA and New Technologies
This Act aims to significantly improve the accuracy and timeliness of weather and climate forecasts, particularly for subseasonal-to-seasonal predictions (weeks to months ahead). By better anticipating droughts, floods, hurricanes, and heatwaves, citizens can prepare more effectively for extreme weather, leading to increased safety and reduced financial losses. The legislation also allocates funds to develop the workforce of scientists and engineers at NOAA, accelerating the implementation of modern climate modeling technologies.
Key points
Forecast Improvement: NOAA must conduct research to create more usable, reliable, and timely foundational forecasts of temperature and precipitation for subseasonal-to-seasonal periods.
Disaster Warnings: Forecasts will be linked to the anticipated number and severity of droughts, fires, hurricanes, floods, and heatwaves, enhancing disaster preparedness.
Public Data Access: An Internet clearinghouse will be developed to provide citizens with national and regional forecasts and related information.
Workforce Investment: Establishment of a Workforce Innovation Program to recruit and train next-generation scientists and engineers skilled in AI and advanced climate modeling.
Funding: Authorization of $50.3 million for 2025 and 2026 for forecast improvements and $40 million annually for 2025-2030 for the workforce development program.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_4907
Sponsor: Sen. Markey, Edward J. [D-MA]
Process start date: 2024-07-31