Why the U.S. Government’s Decision to Stop Tracking Extreme Weather Costs Could Impact You

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) recently announced it will stop tracking disasters that cause at least $1 billion in damages. This change raises concerns for researchers, insurers, and policymakers who rely on this data to understand major events like hurricanes, droughts, and wildfires.

The frequency and severity of such disasters have been increasing as global temperatures rise. However, not every disaster is directly tied to climate change. Critics argue that this move, part of a broader effort by recent administrations to limit climate research, hinders the ability to plan for future disasters.

Experts in the field are alarmed. Jesse M. Keenan from Tulane University stated that this decision could undermine budget-setting and infrastructure planning. Without data, the government will struggle to assess the financial impacts of extreme weather. He noted, “It defies logic. The U.S. government’s flying blind.”

Senator Ed Markey called it “anti-science” and “anti-American.” Virginia Iglesias, a climate researcher at the University of Colorado, emphasized that the database is one of the most trusted sources of information on climate-related economic loss.

Statistics reveal alarming trends. In the 1980s, the average number of billion-dollar disasters was just over three per year. Today, that number has jumped to around 23. Since 1980, there have been at least 403 such disasters, with 27 occurring last year alone.

Recent disasters included hurricanes Helene and Milton, which collectively caused about $113 billion in damages. Additionally, a yearlong drought led to over 100 deaths and $5 billion in losses from heat exposure.

NOAA claims the decision to stop tracking these disasters aligns with “evolving priorities” but hasn’t clarified if any other agency will take over this task. Historical data from 1980 to 2024 will still be available, but from 2025 onward, figures on disasters like California’s wildfires will not be reported.

Erin Sikorsky, director of The Center for Climate and Security, stressed that losing this information means a lack of understanding about climate risks. Other agencies may not be able to replicate this data collection, as it relies on proprietary insurance information that is often confidential. This unique insight is vital for safeguarding communities against future disasters.

As climate patterns shift, reliable data becomes increasingly essential for preparedness and response. Understanding these trends not only helps in disaster management but also informs policy decisions that protect lives and resources.

For more details on the implications of this decision, you can refer to the NOAA updates here.

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Global Warming,Greenhouse Gas Emissions,United States Politics and Government,National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration