the weather disaster database that trump killed The national database on billion-dollar weather and climate disasters has found a new home after the Trump administration decided to ax it earlier this year.
the weather disaster database that trump killed
Background on the Billion-Dollar Disaster Database
The National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI) has historically been a crucial source of data regarding weather and climate-related disasters in the United States. This database, which dates back to 1980, provided valuable insights into the frequency and financial impact of disasters that resulted in damages exceeding $1 billion. However, in May 2020, the NCEI ceased updating this resource, citing “evolving priorities, statutory mandates, and staffing changes” under the Trump administration.
This decision was part of a broader trend observed since Donald Trump took office, characterized by a systematic removal of information related to climate change from government websites. The implications of this action were significant, as the database served not only as a record of past disasters but also as a tool for future planning and risk assessment. Communities relied on this data to understand vulnerabilities and adapt building codes accordingly, ensuring public safety and resilience in the face of increasing climate threats.
The Role of Climate Central
In response to the discontinuation of the federal database, the nonprofit research and advocacy group Climate Central stepped in to fill the void. On its own website, Climate Central launched a new version of the billion-dollar disaster database, which similarly tracks weather and climate-related disasters that have caused at least $1 billion in damages. This initiative is particularly timely, as 2020 is already shaping up to be one of the costliest years on record for such disasters.
Adam Smith, who previously served as the lead scientist for NCEI’s billion-dollar disaster tool for 15 years, is now spearheading the effort at Climate Central. His expertise and familiarity with the data are invaluable as the organization aims to maintain continuity in tracking these critical events.
Data Insights from 2020
Analyzing the first six months of 2020, Climate Central reported that 14 individual disasters had collectively cost $101.4 billion. This figure is staggering, particularly when compared to historical averages. Research indicates that the United States has faced an average of nine separate billion-dollar disasters per year in recent years. However, this frequency has increased dramatically since 1980, when the average was just three such events annually. The last two years have seen record-breaking numbers, with 28 and 27 billion-dollar disasters occurring in 2018 and 2019, respectively.
Moreover, the average annual inflation-adjusted costs associated with these disasters have grown more than six-fold over the same period. In the 2020s, the average cost has reached approximately $153.2 billion per year, compared to just $22.6 billion per year in the 1980s. This stark increase underscores the escalating financial burden that climate-related disasters impose on communities and the economy.
Significant Disasters in 2020
The year 2020 began with one of the costliest wildfire events on record in the United States. The inferno that swept across the greater Los Angeles area resulted in losses exceeding $60 billion, marking a significant financial impact within the first six months of the year. This event alone contributed to making the first half of 2020 the costliest of any year recorded in the database thus far.
These figures highlight not only the immediate financial implications of such disasters but also the long-term consequences for communities affected by them. The increasing frequency and severity of these events necessitate a reevaluation of disaster preparedness and response strategies at both local and federal levels.
Implications of the Database’s Discontinuation
The discontinuation of the federal billion-dollar disaster database raises critical questions about the future of climate research and data accessibility in the United States. The removal of such resources can hinder efforts to understand and mitigate the impacts of climate change. Researchers, policymakers, and community planners rely on accurate data to inform their decisions, and the absence of a comprehensive database could lead to inadequate responses to future disasters.
Furthermore, the Trump administration’s approach to climate data has faced significant backlash from various stakeholders. Legal challenges have emerged, and there has been a concerted effort by advocates to archive and preserve climate-related information that has been removed from government websites. This grassroots movement underscores the importance of transparency and accessibility in climate science.
Political Context and Reactions
The political context surrounding the discontinuation of the billion-dollar disaster database is complex. The Trump administration’s actions have been characterized by a broader skepticism toward climate science, often prioritizing economic interests over environmental concerns. In July 2020, the administration removed the federal website that housed Congressionally mandated national climate assessments, further limiting access to critical information.
In August 2020, former fracking executive and Secretary of Energy Chris Wright commissioned a report on greenhouse gas emissions that rejected the scientific consensus on climate change. This report has faced criticism for its lack of scientific rigor and has been challenged in court. Environmental advocates argue that such actions are part of a deliberate strategy to undermine climate science and roll back federal regulations aimed at reducing planet-heating emissions.
Community Responses and Advocacy
In light of these developments, community responses have been varied. Many local governments and organizations are taking proactive measures to address climate risks, despite the federal government’s withdrawal from climate data dissemination. This includes investing in infrastructure improvements, developing emergency response plans, and engaging in public education campaigns to raise awareness about climate-related risks.
Advocacy groups have also stepped up their efforts to hold the administration accountable for its actions. Legal challenges to the removal of climate data and the promotion of misleading reports are part of a broader movement to ensure that accurate information remains accessible. These efforts highlight the critical role that civil society plays in safeguarding scientific integrity and promoting informed decision-making.
The Future of Climate Data
The future of climate data in the United States remains uncertain, particularly in light of the current political landscape. However, the emergence of alternative databases, such as the one launched by Climate Central, offers a glimmer of hope. By continuing to track and analyze billion-dollar disasters, these organizations can provide valuable insights that inform public policy and community planning.
Moreover, the increasing frequency and severity of climate-related disasters underscore the urgent need for comprehensive data collection and analysis. As communities grapple with the impacts of climate change, access to reliable information will be essential for effective disaster preparedness and response.
Conclusion
The revival of the billion-dollar disaster database by Climate Central is a crucial step in maintaining access to vital climate data in the face of federal withdrawal. As 2020 continues to unfold as one of the costliest years on record for weather and climate disasters, the importance of accurate data cannot be overstated. Stakeholders at all levels must remain vigilant in advocating for transparency and accessibility in climate science to ensure that communities are equipped to face the challenges posed by a changing climate.
Source: Original report
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Last Modified: October 23, 2025 at 12:36 am
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