US Halts Tracking of Extreme Weather Costs Linked to Climate Change: What This Means for You – Latest Insights from EnviroNews

The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has made a significant change: it will stop tracking the financial costs of climate-related disasters like floods, heat waves, and wildfires after 2024. This decision highlights a trend where climate change resources are downsized, influenced by the previous administration.

NOAA, under the Department of Commerce, has been crucial in offering daily weather forecasts and climate monitoring. Its National Centers for Environmental Information has maintained a database documenting billions of dollars in losses from natural disasters since 1980. This database pulls data from various federal and state sources, making it a vital tool for understanding the economic impact of major weather events.

Kim Doster, NOAA’s Communications Director, stated this change aligns with “evolving priorities and staffing changes.” However, many scientists warn that as climate change continues to escalate, the frequency and severity of these weather events are increasing. More frequent occurrences are putting pressure on insurance markets, particularly in areas vulnerable to flooding and storms.

Experts emphasize that having accurate data is essential. “The NOAA database is considered the gold standard for evaluating extreme weather costs,” said Jeff Masters, a meteorologist. The loss of this database is a setback, especially when understanding the financial impact of climate change is more crucial than ever.

Recent reports show that extreme weather events are on the rise. According to a study from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the U.S. saw over $1 billion in damages from weather events in 2021 alone. This trend reflects a shift in perspective—where these disasters are now often seen as the new normal, bringing home the reality that climate change is affecting people directly.

Kristina Dahl from Climate Central added, “Extreme weather is how the public perceives climate change.” In light of these changes, it’s vital to keep attention on these disasters and their impacts on communities. The shift away from tracking this data may leave Americans less aware and prepared for the challenges presented by worsening climate conditions.

While NOAA is stepping back from this responsibility, alternatives like insurance data and international disaster databases can still provide insights. However, these sources may not match the depth and reliability of NOAA’s long-standing records.

This shift is part of a broader trend of reducing attention on climate change. Policies and staffing cuts during the previous administration have raised alarms about the potential impact on public safety and economic stability related to weather forecasting and climate monitoring.

In the grand scheme, minimizing the focus on climate-related disasters could lead to a less informed public and potentially elevate risks. Knowing the costs tied to climate events not only informs policy but also impacts the daily lives of people across the country.

For more in-depth statistics and insights on climate change impacts, check out data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

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climate change,extreme weather,U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA),United States (US)