US govt hiding top hurricane forecast model sparks outrage after deadly Helene
NOAA faces criticism for withholding hurricane forecast data from the HCCA model due to a private contract, raising concerns about public safety and transparency in government-funded research until 2025.
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The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is facing criticism for withholding data from a highly accurate hurricane forecasting model, the Hurricane Forecast Improvement Program (HFIP) Corrected Consensus Approach (HCCA), due to a contract with RenaissanceRe Risk Sciences. This contract, established in 2020, mandates that NOAA keep HCCA forecasts confidential for five years, which has raised concerns about prioritizing business interests over public safety, especially following the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene. The model was recognized as one of the best performers in a recent National Hurricane Center report. Critics, including Lauren Harper from the Freedom of the Press Foundation, argue that this secrecy undermines public access to vital information that could aid in disaster preparedness and response. NOAA plans to release the HCCA data in time for the 2025 hurricane season, but there are calls for immediate access to the information to prevent further loss of life. The situation highlights the tension between public-private partnerships and the need for transparency in government-funded research, particularly in areas that directly impact public safety.
- NOAA is criticized for withholding hurricane forecast data due to a private contract.
- The HCCA model is recognized as one of the most accurate forecasting tools.
- Critics argue that withholding data compromises public safety and emergency response efforts.
- NOAA plans to release the data in 2025, but immediate access is being demanded.
- The issue raises concerns about transparency in public-private partnerships.
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