NOAA investigates watchdog complaint on disaster data accuracy

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is facing scrutiny over the accuracy of its 'billion-dollar disaster' data, following a complaint from the watchdog group Protect the Public’s Trust (PPT). This complaint, filed in April with the U.S. Department of Commerce, highlights concerns regarding the scientific integrity of NOAA's reporting on climate-related disasters that exceed $1 billion in damages. Since 1980, NOAA has reported an average of 8.5 such events annually, but this figure has surged to an average of 20.4 events in the last five years. Dr. Roger Pielke Jr.'s study, which criticized NOAA's methodology, has gained attention for its claims that the agency's reporting lacks scientific rigor and transparency. Pielke's research indicates that the only adjustment NOAA makes in its disaster tally is for inflation, failing to account for factors such as increased development in affected areas, which can skew damage assessments. This lack of transparency makes it difficult for independent researchers to verify NOAA's findings. In response to the allegations, NOAA has committed to improving the documentation and transparency of its data. The agency has initiated an investigation into the watchdog's complaint and has promised to keep PPT informed of its progress. PPT's director expressed cautious optimism about NOAA's responsiveness but remains skeptical about the thoroughness of the investigation. The implications of this investigation are significant, as NOAA's disaster data influences federal policy and research on climate change. The agency's figures have been cited extensively in scientific literature and government assessments, underscoring the importance of accurate and reliable data in understanding the impacts of climate-related disasters.