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Meteorologist explains how cuts to NOAA research impacts weather warnings
MSNBCยท 2025-07-07 20:45
Weather Warning Systems & Technology - The industry emphasizes the need for redundant warning systems, especially in vulnerable areas like Texas Hill Country, known as flash flood alley [8][9] - Noah weather radio is a helpful tool, especially where cell phone coverage is limited, as it automatically activates upon receiving a warning signal from a Noah transmitter [5][6][7] - FEMA's Wireless Emergency Alert system is another way to receive warnings, but it relies on cell signal [6] Budget Cuts & Research Impact - Proposed budget cuts to Noah, specifically the Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research and the National Severe Storms Lab, could negatively impact the ability to forecast and research extreme weather [10][12] - Eliminating Noah's research arm would hinder the improvement of warnings for severe weather events [12] Forecasting Capabilities & Future Development - The industry aims to improve forecasting to the point where it can predict potential rainfall events with enough confidence for people to evacuate hours in advance [12] - Advanced modeling and forecasting could potentially predict the likelihood of specific rainfall amounts (e g, 6 to 9 inches in 3 hours) in certain areas [14] - Research and development at places like the National Severe Storms Lab could lead to improved forecasting capabilities within the next several years [14] Disaster Context - A similar flood occurred on the same river in 1987, resulting in fatalities, highlighting the area's vulnerability [9] Call to Action - The industry suggests that government officials should visit the National Severe Storms Lab to understand the importance of its work before considering budget cuts [15]