Staff and meteorologist at the NOAA NWS National Hurricane Center monitor Hurricane Milton on Oct. 9, 2024. (Photo by NOAA/NWS/NHC via Facebook)

To the Public and Our Elected Officials,

At Acme News, we rely on accurate, timely, and publicly available weather and environmental data to serve our communities. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the National Weather Service (NWS) play a critical role in keeping Americans safe, supporting economic growth, and protecting natural resources.

Despite their essential services, funding for NOAA and its agencies has repeatedly come under threat, has seen recent layoffs, and there are ongoing discussions about privatization that could put lives and livelihoods at risk.

The Critical Role of NOAA and the NWS

NOAA is responsible for a vast array of services that benefit not just government agencies, but also businesses, industries, and everyday Americans. The agency’s offices provide essential data that support safety, commerce, and scientific research.

  • National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service (NESDIS): Enables accurate weather predictions and real-time hazard monitoring, including tornadoes, hurricanes, and wildfires. It also provides satellite data for search and rescue operations.
  • National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS): Oversees sustainable fisheries, ensures seafood safety, and protects endangered marine species—securing an industry worth billions.
  • National Ocean Service (NOS): Provides navigational charts and real-time data that help maritime commerce, coastal tourism, and disaster response planning.
  • National Weather Service (NWS): Issues forecasts, warnings, and climate data that form the backbone of America’s weather industry and emergency preparedness efforts.
  • Oceanic and Atmospheric Research (OAR): Develops predictive models and observation technologies for weather, climate, air quality, and emergency management.
  • Office of Marine and Aviation Operations (OMAO): Conducts hurricane reconnaissance, climate research, and emergency response support using specialized aircraft and ships.

For the average American, NOAA and the NWS provide vital services that impact daily life in ways many may not realize. From the morning weather forecast that helps determine what to wear, to severe weather alerts that warn of approaching storms, these agencies play a crucial role in public safety and convenience. Road conditions, flood warnings, and air quality reports help commuters and outdoor workers stay safe, while NOAA’s climate data supports everything from insurance rates to home energy costs. Even recreational activities, like planning a beach trip or a fishing outing, depend on NOAA’s tide charts, marine forecasts, and UV index reports. Space weather alerts sent to power and communication companies ensure that solar storms don’t cause cell phone, internet, and power outages. Simply put, NOAA and the NWS are embedded in everyday life, providing the information needed to make informed decisions and stay safe.

The Economic Impact of NOAA

NOAA’s services save lives and money. Every dollar invested in weather and climate prediction returns nine dollars in economic benefits. Industries that rely on NOAA’s work include:

  • Agriculture: Farmers depend on weather data for planting, harvesting, and protecting crops.
  • Transportation & Shipping: Airlines, maritime industries, and trucking companies use NOAA forecasts to plan routes and avoid disruptions.
  • Energy: Utilities rely on climate predictions for grid management and disaster preparedness.
  • Tourism & Coastal Economies: Real-time ocean and weather data support safe recreation and coastal business operations.

Without NOAA, businesses would face higher risks and increased costs.

The Dangers of Funding Cuts & Privatization

There have been repeated proposals to cut NOAA’s budget or privatize its data. These efforts could have devastating consequences:

  • Paywalls on Life-Saving Forecasts: If private companies control weather data, the public may have to pay for information that is currently free and accessible to all.
  • Weakened Disaster Response: Emergency responders and local governments rely on NOAA’s real-time data. Any disruption in service could lead to delayed evacuations and greater loss of life.
  • Higher Costs for Businesses & Consumers: Industries that depend on NOAA’s forecasts would be forced to pay for information, increasing operating costs that could be passed down to consumers.

Action

We urge Congress and the administration to fully fund NOAA and the NWS to ensure the continued delivery of accurate, free, and life-saving data. Every American deserves access to the best weather and environmental information available—without interference from profit-driven interests.

At Acme News, we stand with the meteorologists, scientists, and public servants who dedicate their lives to keeping us informed and safe. We call on lawmakers, business leaders, and the public to support NOAA, reject funding cuts, and oppose efforts to privatize these essential services.

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