Flavio Lehner

Climate scientist and assistant professor of earth and atmospheric science

Cornell University climate scientist Flavio Lehner says he relies on NOAA data to predict drought risk in the U.S., and that cuts to the agency have vast repercussions.

Lehner says:

“NOAA is a critical provider of observational data and model simulations for all kinds of environmental science, including weather and climate research. It also conducts research in those fields, quantifying how damaging extreme weather from climate change has become. 

“My group relies on NOAA data of ocean temperatures to study and predict drought risk over the United States. The National Weather Service sits within NOAA and provides weather forecasts and warnings at almost no cost per person, but also supplies data and model simulations to a large enterprise of private forecasting companies. Aviation, agriculture, and public safety depend on these tools — and the private sector cannot fill this void without the baseline operations of NOAA.

“The repercussions of the current development are many, some already unfolding. Missing monitoring data and reduced quality weather warnings can lead to loss of life. Lack of information on climate change can lead to maladaptation by communities. Derailed career paths for professionals and students leads to brain drain and decreased competitive advantage. A particular problem are the arbitrary and uncoordinated layoffs of probationary staff, which disrupt operations and lead to loss of knowledge. A colleague has likened it to going into an orchard and uprooting only the newest, most vigorous, and healthiest plants. Sure, you might save some water but the effect will be devastating on the long term health of the system.”