logo
Private companies couldn't match NOAA's vast public weather data powers

Private companies couldn't match NOAA's vast public weather data powers

Yahoo11-02-2025

Feb. 11 (UPI) -- When a hurricane or tornado starts to form, your local weather forecasters can quickly pull up maps tracking its movement and showing where it's headed. But have you ever wondered where they get all that information?
The forecasts can seem effortless, but behind the scenes, a vast network of satellites, airplanes, radar, computer models and weather analysts are providing access to the latest data - and warnings when necessary. This data comes from analysts at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, known as NOAA, and its National Weather Service.
Atmospheric scientists Christine Wiedinmyer and Kari Bowen, who is a former National Weather Service forecaster, explained NOAA's central role in most U.S. weather forecasts.
When people see a weather report on TV, what went on at NOAA to make that forecast possible?
A lot of the weather information Americans rely on starts with real-time data collected by NOAA satellites, airplanes, weather balloons, radar and maritime buoys, as well as weather stations around the world.
All of that information goes into the agency's computers, which process the data to begin defining what's going on in different parts of the atmosphere.
NOAA forecasters use computer models that simulate physics and the behavior of the atmosphere, along with their own experience and local knowledge, to start to paint a picture of the weather -- what's coming in a few minutes or hours or days. They also use that data to project seasonal conditions out over weeks or months.
NOAA's data comes from many sources to provide a more complete picture of developing climate and weather conditions. Communities and economies rely on that constantly updated information. NOAA
When severe weather is on the way, the agency issues the official alerts you'll see in the news and on your phone.
All of this analysis happens before the information reaches private weather apps and TV stations.
No matter who you are, you can freely access that data and the analyses. In fact, a large number of private companies use NOAA data to create fancy maps and other weather products that they sell.
It would be extremely difficult to do all of that without NOAA.
The agency operates a fleet of 18 satellites that are packed with instruments dedicated to observing weather phenomena essential to predicting the weather, from how hot the land surface is to the water content of the atmosphere.
Some are geostationary satellites which sit high above different parts of the U.S. measuring weather conditions 24/7. Others orbit the planet. Many of these are operated as part of partnerships with NASA or the Air Force.
Some private companies are starting to invest in satellites, but it would take an enormous amount of money to replicate the range of instrumentation and coverage that NOAA has in place.
Satellites only last so long and take time to build, so NOAA is continually planning for the future, and using its technical expertise to develop new instruments and computer algorithms to interpret the data.
NOAA's low earth orbiting satellites circle the planet from pole to pole and across the equator 14 times a day to provide a full picture of the year twice a day. The agency also has geostationary satellites that provide continuous coverage over the U.S. NOAA
Maritime buoys are another measuring system that would be difficult to replicate. Over 1,300 buoys across oceans around the world measure water temperature, wind and wave height -- all of which are essential for coastal warnings, as well as long-term forecasts.
Weather observation has been around a long time. President Ulysses S. Grant created the first national weather service in the War Department in 1870. It became a civilian service in 1880 under the Department of Agriculture and is now in the Commerce Department.
The information its scientists and technologists produce is essential for safety and also benefits people and industries in a lot of ways.
Could a private company create forecasts on its own?
It would be difficult for one company to provide comprehensive weather data in a reliable way that is also accessible to the entire public.
Some companies might be able to launch their own satellite, but one satellite only gives you part of the picture. NOAA's weather observation network has been around for a long time and collects data from points all over the United States and the oceans.
Without that robust data, computer models and the broad network of forecasters and developers, forecasting also becomes less reliable.
Analyzing that data is also complex. You're not going to be able to take satellite data, run a model on a standard laptop and suddenly have a forecast.
And there's a question of whether a private company would want to take on the legal risk of being responsible for the nation's forecasts and severe weather warnings.
NOAA is taxpayer-funded, so it is a public good -- its services provide safety and security for everyone, not just those who can pay for it.
If weather data was only available at a price, one town might be able to afford the weather information necessary to protect its residents, while a smaller town or a rural area across the state might not. If you're in a tornado-prone area or coastal zone, that information can be the difference between life or death.
Is climate data and research into the changing climate important for forecasts?
The Earth's systems -- its land, water and the atmosphere -- are changing, and we have to be able to assess how those changes will impact weather tomorrow, in two weeks and far into the future.
Rising global temperatures affect weather patterns. Dryness can fuel wildfires. Forecasts have to take the changing climate into account to be accurate, no matter who is creating the forecast.
Drought is an example. The dryness of the Earth controls how much water gets exchanged with the atmosphere to form clouds and rainfall. To have an accurate weather prediction, we need to know how dry things are at the surface and how that has changed over time. That requires long-term climate information.
NOAA doesn't do all of this by itself - who else is involved?
NOAA partners with private sector, academia, nonprofits and many others around the world to ensure that everyone has the best information to produce the most robust weather forecasts. Private weather companies and media also play important roles in getting those forecasts and alerts out more widely to the public.
A lot of businesses rely on accuracy from NOAA's weather data and forecasts: aviation, energy companies, insurance, even modern tractors' precision farming equipment. The agency's long-range forecasts are essential for managing state reservoirs to ensure enough water is saved and to avoid flooding.
The government agency can be held accountable in a way private businesses are not because it answers to Congress. So, the data is trustworthy, accessible and developed with the goal to protect public safety and property for everyone. Could the same be said if only for-profit companies were producing that data?
Christine Wiedinmyer is associate director for science at CIRES at the University of Colorado Boulder and ">Kari Bowen is an atmospheric scientist, program manager at CIRES at the University of Colorado Boulder.
This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. The views and opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of the authors.

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Ultimate Southwest Florida hurricane preparation guide 2025
Ultimate Southwest Florida hurricane preparation guide 2025

Yahoo

timean hour ago

  • Yahoo

Ultimate Southwest Florida hurricane preparation guide 2025

If you live in Southwest Florida, you know that the Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through Nov. 30. Preparation is key. We've amassed and curated everything you need to know about preparing for a hurricane or tropical storm, from what supplies to get, to how to stay safe and what to do after a storm. Scroll down through the page to browse, or jump quickly to the section you want: About hurricane forecasting Latest Florida forecasts Preparing your home and yard All about insurance ➤ Weather alerts via text: Sign up to get updates about current storms and weather events by location Will a Category 5 hurricane make landfall in Florida in 2025? History says that's unlikely In a rush? 15 things you should know before 2025 hurricane season arrives Infographic: How do hurricanes form? An inside look What's the difference between subtropical storm and tropical storm? Breaking down the hurricane category scale Hurricanes, typhoons and cyclones: What are the differences among these storms? What is NOAA? Federal weather, climate agency hit with job cuts has a big mission Meet WeatherTiger: Hurricane expert Ryan Truchelut provides Florida storm forecasts, analyses National Hurricane Center is updating its cone graphic for the 2025 hurricane season 2025 hurricane season will start with Andrea. See list of names and how you can prepare now Florida storm tracker: A hurricane watcher's guide to the latest track and model forecasts during the 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season. Hurricane Season 2025: Good news and bad from the Florida forecast from WeatherTiger It's not too early to prepare yourself and your home for a hurricane. The best time to get ready is before a storm is approaching. With hurricane season starting soon, Florida residents need to prepare. What to know New to Florida and hurricanes? Here's what you should know as hurricane season approaches Here are 10 things you can do to get ahead of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season Taping windows before a storm? Don't fall for these hurricane myths ➤ Weather alerts via text: Sign up to get updates about current storms and weather events by location What supplies do you need for a storm? Food and water are only the beginning to building your emergency supplies. Here are other things you should assemble. Hurricane season help: Tips for starting a storm supply list Hurricane preparation: What supplies do you need for a storm? Here's a list Creating hurricane supplies kit important, but what if money is tight? Tips, resources to help What you should do to protect your home during a hurricane Make sure you have safely installed shutters, tips on maintenance What you should know about hurricane shutters and window coverings before a storm Do you need a generator? Here's how to decide How to prepare your house for a hurricane: The ultimate preparedness checklist from USA TODAY Storm prep and other things to do in your Jacksonville yard (and beyond!) this June How to protect your patio from storm damage during hurricane season Follow these guidelines to get your trees, yard ready for hurricane or tropical storm Here is how you can prepare your pool for a hurricane or tropical storm What to do with your boat in Florida if a storm approaches Follow this checklist to protect, secure your boat for hurricanes and tropical storms ➤ Weather alerts via text: Sign up to get updates about current storms and weather events by location Florida weather alerts (use dropdown menu to see your county) Across Florida: Who should I call for help in an emergency during a hurricane? How do you know if you live in an evacuation zone? Enter your address on this Florida Division of Emergency Management website What's your flood risk? Enter your ZIP code on this FEMA website for information Should you go to a hurricane shelter? What to know before you make your decision Florida Special Needs Registry: If someone in your household has special needs, register with your local emergency management agency here to receive assistance during a disaster Florida Gridlock Guide: Latest traffic reports and live views from the state's highways OFF THE GRID: Florida Power Outage Tracker — use dropdown menu to see your county Can you fill a washing machine with ice for a hurricane? Here's why you shouldn't Power outage safety: Here's what to be aware of before, during and after your power goes out Hurricane hacks for your dog, if you want coffee, in case you lose power or ride the storm Best tips on how to keep your pets safe during a storm How do you prepare your pets for hurricane season and how do you evacuate with animals? Safety tips for navigating around your neighborhood after storm What's still safe to eat and what should be thrown out? After storms, scammers come out. How to avoid getting ripped off in Florida Returning home from evacuating? Safety tips, how to file an insurance claim when you return ➤ Weather alerts via text: Sign up to get updates about current storms and weather events by location Don't understand insurance? What to know to keep a roof over your head Homeowners' insurance in Florida: What to know ahead of 2025 Hurricane Season Hurricane Season preparedness: What to document for insurance before Hurricane Season 2025 No flood insurance? You could end up on the hook for storm damage Hurricane season tips for homeowners: Five insurance facts to know, when to buy These 3 things aren't covered by Florida homeowners' insurance Dropped from your home or flood insurance policy? Here's what to do Living in Florida? These flood insurance facts could save you thousands Need a new roof for insurance? Here are the main choices in Florida and how they stack up Study: 10-year-old asphalt shingles don't protect against hurricane winds Hurricane hunters save lives, but plane breakdowns put them at risk Not your ordinary aircraft: NOAA Hurricane Hunter jet is designed to collect weather data Can cows predict a hurricane is coming? Debunking one of Florida's strangest superstitions Easy decision: 2024 weather monsters Helene, Milton retired from hurricane names list Support local journalism by subscribing to a Florida news organization. This article originally appeared on Fort Myers News-Press: Florida hurricane guide 2025: How to prepare your SW FL home, yard

Going out with Dad for Father's Day? Here's what the weather looks like Sunday across Georgia
Going out with Dad for Father's Day? Here's what the weather looks like Sunday across Georgia

Yahoo

timean hour ago

  • Yahoo

Going out with Dad for Father's Day? Here's what the weather looks like Sunday across Georgia

Father's Day is almost here and families across Georgia are gearing up to celebrate, with many hoping for perfect weather to honor Dad. From cookouts to outdoor adventures, will the Peach State deliver sunny skies, or will rain put a damper on the day? Father's Day 2025 is Sunday, June 15. According to the National Weather Service, here are forecasts for June 15 in different areas: Athens: Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly after 2 p.m. It will be partly sunny, with a high near 87 degrees. Chance of precipitation is 60%. Augusta: Showers and thunderstorms likely after 2 p.m. It will be partly sunny, with a high near 91 degrees. Chance of precipitation is 60%. Savannah: Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly after 2 p.m. It will be partly sunny, with a high near 91 degrees. Chance of precipitation is 70%. Macon: Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly after 2 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 91 degrees. Chance of precipitation is 70%. Blue Ridge: A chance of showers and thunderstorms, then showers and possibly a thunderstorm after 2 p.m. High near 83 degrees. Chance of precipitation is 90%. Vanessa Countryman is the Trending Topics Reporter for the Deep South Connect Team Georgia. Email her at Vcountryman@ This article originally appeared on Augusta Chronicle: Father's Day 2025 weather in Georgia. What is the GA forecast for Sunday?

Transport of mercury through rivers has risen threefold since Industrial Revolution, new study finds

timean hour ago

Transport of mercury through rivers has risen threefold since Industrial Revolution, new study finds

Human activity has caused the amount of mercury being transported through rivers all over the world to increase up to threefold since the Industrial Revolution, making regulations to prevent toxic metals from entering waterways even more necessary, according to environmental policy experts. Industrial practices such as coal combustion, mining and manufacturing have increased mercury pollution and changed the way it moves through rivers, causing a sharp rise in mercury concentrations around the world since the 1850s, according to a paper published Wednesday in the journal Science. Scientists pay especially close attention to neurotoxins like mercury due to its ability to accumulate in fish and rivers, Yanxu Zhang, an associate professor at Tulane University's School of Science and Engineering and co-author of the study, told ABC News. Researchers used process-based models to reconstruct the amount of mercury emissions that would have existed in waterways naturally from events such as volcanic activity or wildfires, Zhang said. They found that between 1845 and 1859, the average baseline river cycle was roughly 390 megagrams of mercury per year. Today, rivers carry about 1,000 megagrams per year -- equating in about a 585 megagram per year increase in the last two centuries. The researchers also corroborated this finding with global historic sediment cores, according to the study. The findings of the report are "not at all surprising," John Holdren, a professor of environmental science and policy and former science adviser to President Barack Obama, told ABC News. "It just adds one more data point to the clear evidence that many human environmental impacts far exceed the scale of natural influences," Holdren said. The presence of mercury then poses a health risk to people living nearby -- especially in developing regions in South America, Southeast Asia and Africa, Zhang said. But proposed rollbacks on U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regulations that tightened emissions standards for toxic metals like mercury could soon put Americans at risk of increased mercury levels in U.S. waterways, according to environmental policy experts. Earlier this year, EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin announced a massive deregulation campaign, rolling out more than two dozen policy announcements to propose changes on several emissions regulations. The actions included revisions to the Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS), which set limits on mercury and arsenic pollution from coal and oil power plants -- rules the EPA described in a press release in March as "overreaching." During a press conference on Wednesday, Zeldin said that if the proposed changes to MATS are finalized, "no power plant will be allowed to emit more than they do today -- or as much as they did one or two years ago." "These decisions allow more mercury into the air and water, even though mercury is known to harm children's brain development, and arsenic is linked to cancer and birth defects," James Pew, director of federal clean air practice at Earthjustice, told ABC News. In March, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down a requirement from the Clean Water Act that forced polluters to comply with water quality standards as a condition of their permits. Last month, the House of Representatives voted to allow about 1,800 facilities -- including chemical plants, refineries and pesticide manufacturers -- to "reclassify" themselves as minor polluters and stop controlling, monitoring or reporting toxic emissions under the Congressional Review Act. The vote passed 216 to 212, with all Democrats and one Republican opposing it. The Senate had approved the resolution weeks earlier. "All of Donald Trump's actions since taking office are taking us backwards on mercury pollution and threatening our health," Sierra Club Climate Policy Director Patrick Drupp told ABC News. Mercury -- along with other heavy metals, such as lead -- is one of the "clearest" cases of public health knowledge that has been translated into environmental standards in the U.S. over the last 50 years, Dan Esty, a professor of environmental law and policy at Yale University and former commissioner of Connecticut's Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, told ABC News. The report is "another reminder of the massive irresponsibility of the EPA's headlong retreat, under President Trump and EPA Administrator Zeldin, from science-based approaches to protecting public health from environmental harms of all kinds," Holdren -- the environmental science professor -- said. Mercury is toxic to both animals and people in a number of ways, necessitating effective controls to keep people from being harmed, Paul Anastas, director of the Center for Green Chemistry and Green Engineering at Yale University and former assistant administrator for the EPA, told ABC News. "It's always foolish to ignore mercury," Anastas said. "...If you're not afraid of mercury, you're not paying attention." Exposure to mercury typically occurs from eating fish and can cause a host of symptoms, such as loss of peripheral vision, the feeling of "pins and needles" in hands and feet and impairment of speech, hearing and walking, according to the EPA. Mercury exposure to infants in the womb can have a severe impact on brain and nervous system development, the EPA noted. The rollbacks will likely trigger more child deaths and increase the number of cases of cancer, lung disease and heart attacks, Ryan Maher, an environmental health attorney for the Center for Biological Diversity, told ABC News. The eastern U.S., which contains many industrial sites that could potential have mercury in waste discharges, could especially be impacted, study co-author Zhang said. Mercury contamination is already happening in Minnesota, where residents have been advised by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency to restrict eating fish from rivers, lakes and other bodies of water that have excess mercury to once per week. If mercury levels increase, humans may have to balance fish consumption to avoid exposure, Zhang said.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into the world of global news and events? Download our app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store