The Critical Importance of the National Weather Service in Disaster Response and Preparedness

Open Letter to members of Congress and the US Senate

Dear Members of Congress and the US Senate,

As citizens of this great nation, we place immense trust in the hands of those we elect to make decisions that ensure our safety, prosperity, and well-being. It has come to public attention that there are considerations to defund or reduce the National Weather Service (NWS) budget. I write to you today not only as a concerned citizen but also as someone who believes in the profound value and necessity of the NWS in the protection of lives, property, and the environment. The following are Five areas that are essential to ensuring efficient and timely disaster response and readiness:

1. The NWS is a Critical Partner in Disaster Response and Preparedness: The NWS provides early warnings and forecasts for a timely and effective response to natural disasters. Whether it's hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, or wildfires, the alerts and updates from the NWS provide crucial information to both government agencies and the public. This information allows for the necessary preparation and response that saves countless lives and reduces the impact of such events.

2. Creating a Culture of Preparedness: Preparedness is about responding efficiently when a disaster strikes and cultivating a society that is always ready. The NWS is a pivotal part of this equation. Their constant engagement with communities, businesses, and local governments helps educate and remind the public of the risks posed by severe weather events. This promotes a culture where individuals are more proactive about safety and preparedness.

3. Technological and Research Advancements: The NWS doesn’t just provide forecasts; it's at the forefront of meteorological research. The agency's work aids in improving the accuracy of forecasts and enhancing our understanding of weather phenomena. Defunding the NWS would impact today's weather predictions and hinder the advancements that could make future predictions even more precise.

4. Economic Implications: While the immediate concern with severe weather events is protecting life and property, there's also a significant economic component to consider. Accurate forecasts help businesses, schools and individuals make informed decisions, from rerouting shipments from storm paths to closing stores in the face of impending hurricanes. This level of preparedness can save businesses billions of dollars, preserving jobs and local economies.

5. Environmental Protection: The NWS also plays a vital role in environmental protection, monitoring and predictions; the service can alert relevant agencies and organizations to conditions that may lead to environmental disasters, allowing for preventive measures.

Fully funding the NWS is not merely preserving a government service but investing in our nation's safety, well-being, and prosperity. Defunding or reducing the budget of the NWS would be a grave mistake, one that risks lives and properties, and could have long-lasting ramifications for our environment and economy.

I urge you to consider the NWS's pivotal role and ensure its continued operation and growth. Now, more than ever, we need a robust and fully equipped National Weather Service in the face of a changing climate and the unpredictable challenges it brings.

Thank you for your attention and dedication to our nation's and people's welfare.

Sincerely,

Todd T. DeVoe
Editor-In-Chief
The Emergency Management Network

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The National Weather Service faces proposed cuts of $40M by the Senate and a staggering $200M by the House.

The NWS is an indispensable partner of emergency management, and the increasing frequency of severe weather should warrant more support, not less. Act now ⬇️

🏛️ Contact your Senators and Representatives to oppose these detrimental budget cuts.

Feel free to reference the letter the International Association of Emergency Managers Gov’t Affairs sent to House/Senate Appropriations Committees. Click Here for the IAEM Letter.