But, the NWS's Serious Problems Continue

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In the middle is a parachute and, at lower left, the
instrument package that measures temperature, humidity
and GPS location. It's location is measured to 
derive wind speed and direction. 

We have discussed that the NWS is so under-resourced that it cannot perform its core mission. Another domino fell today. 
You might say, "Who cares, Alaska is a long way away." The problem is that the weather moves throughout the world. 

Below is a current weather satellite image showing a storm moving into southeast Alaska and western Canada. 
That storm is forecast to be over the middle of the nation in five days. Already, the NWS's Storm 
Prediction Center is flagging the potential for significant tornadoes in the gold area for Tuesday and Tuesday night. I believe this is the 4th weather balloon station in the United States we have lost due to resource issues. 

If we want to have any kind of accuracy in forecasts beyond about 2 days, we must have quality worldwide weather measurements. 

Some of us have been pointing out these issues for years to no avail. If the nation had a National Disaster Review Board, it would have -- proactively -- been sounding the alarm. That would have more forcefully brought these issues to the nation's attention than several individuals can. 

There is plenty to cut in NOAA, the NWS's parent agency. These monies and, if possible, people should be immediately resourced to the NWS. Of course, I believe the NWS should be split off from NOAA as we have frequently discussed the past few months. 

Comments

  1. Joe SporlederFebruary 28, 2025 at 8:25 AM

    I've been following your blog on the NWS issues. I 2nd your suggestion to cut from NOAA and reallocate as much as possible to the NWS. For a long time I believe that the NWS as far as government agencies go, is one of the better investments for the taxpayer dollars, but concerned with their recent challenges on critical warnings. Every friend and family member I talk to about this issue, their top priority for the NWS is they want them to be the best they can be in severe weather warnings, so whatever it takes to get back to that core part of their mission should be a top priority.

    ReplyDelete
  2. AnonymousFebruary 28, 2025 at 3:16 PM

    Next we will have pay for weather information.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Mike SmithFebruary 28, 2025 at 4:10 PM

      No. Whether it is the local TV station, AccuWeather, etc., you will be able to get free advertiser-supported forecasts.

      Delete

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