Studying this super El Niño could save lives. NOAA is scaling back research
NOAA is scaling back its research efforts for the current record-breaking El Niño event due to budget constraints and administrative changes. Experts warn that missing this data collection opportunity could hinder future climate forecasting and disaster preparedness.
Why it matters
Reduced scientific observation of major climate events limits our ability to predict and mitigate the impacts of extreme weather on global communities.
The powerful El Niño climate pattern brewing in the Pacific Ocean is already influencing extreme weather around the planet. Federal forecasters say it could become the biggest yet, far outpacing any in recorded history and ultimately impacting millions of people.
With that intensity also comes opportunity. Climate experts say studying this El Niño in detail could help them understand the complex phenomenon better, potentially leading to more accurate forecasts to help communities prepare for droughts and floods.
During the last strong El Niño in 2015-16, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) mounted a rapid response research effort to gather observations. The agency sent a research ship, planes, weather balloons and unmanned aircraft into the Pacific to collect data about the atmosphere. After it wrapped up, NOAA staff recommended the agency be ready with a similar effort for the next strong El Niño.
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