A decision by the Department of Defense to cease releasing satellite meteorological data that hurricane forecasters use has been overturned.
As the Atlantic’s peak hurricane season approached, the Navy declared in June that it would no longer be sharing the vital information on hurricanes. Scientists and meteorologists responded by expressing concern that the lack of data would result in hurricane forecasts that are less precise and timely.
The data is processed and shared by the Navy’s Fleet Numerical Meteorology and Oceanography Center, which “planned to phase out the data as part of a Defense Department modernization effort,” a Navy official told NPR in an email. “But after feedback from government partners, officials found a way to meet modernization goals while keeping the data flowing until the sensor fails or the program formally ends in September 2026.”
For almost 40 years, the Defense Department has provided scientists and meteorologists with data from its satellites, which gather information about atmospheric and ocean conditions.
According to Brian Tang, a hurricane researcher at the University at Albany, the data is especially helpful for hurricane forecasters since it enables them to observe storms as they develop in real time. Tang expresses his satisfaction that the Navy changed their mind. “It’s vital that the data continue to be available through the heart of the Atlantic hurricane season,” according to him.
Forecasters can provide warnings earlier by monitoring storms as they intensify, which gives those in danger more time to get ready and leave.
Additionally, the information is essential for tracking sea ice in polar areas. In addition to having an impact on international shipping and weather patterns, sea ice coverage provides valuable insights about how the world is adapting to climate change.
The Navy had previously postponed the date of its data sharing with scientists once prior to the most recent notification. According to the Navy, the termination date was changed from the end of June to the end of July following a protest by scientists and forecasters. After September 2026, it is uncertain what will happen to the satellite data.
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