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Critical hurricane forecast tool abruptly terminated
UNITED STATES, JUN 26 – The loss of microwave data from three aging satellites will cut available hurricane forecasting data by half, increasing the risk of missed rapid storm intensification, experts said.
- The U.S. Department of Defense and NOAA announced the immediate discontinuation of microwave data from three jointly operated weather satellites critical to hurricane forecasts.
- This abrupt decision, reportedly due to DoD security concerns, surprised meteorologists who rely on the data to track storms, especially during rapid intensification events.
- Microwave imaging sensors aboard satellites offer valuable insight into the internal structure of storms, enabling precise identification of hurricane centers that are often beyond the reach of aircraft reconnaissance.
- Miami meteorologist Michael Lowry called this 'the biggest hit' in hurricane forecasting, noting it will cause a 50% reduction in data scans vital for real-time monitoring of intensifying storms.
- The loss of SSMIS data will degrade forecast accuracy, delay recognition of rapid storm changes, and elevate risks during an unusually active Atlantic hurricane season.
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Coverage Details
Total News Sources15
Leaning Left8Leaning Right0Center4Last UpdatedBias Distribution67% Left
Bias Distribution
- 67% of the sources lean Left
67% Left
L 67%
C 33%
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