A new study, part of NOAA's Drought Task Force IV research, shows the leading cause of the rapid increase of wildfires over the western U.S. is the rapid increase of surface air vapor pressure deficit.
NOAA’s Climate Program Office today launched a newly redesigned version of Climate.gov, NOAA’s award-winning, flagship website that provides the public with clear, timely, and science-based information about climate.
The video includes interviews with those whose livelihoods are impacted by the drought and discusses how rising temperatures are bringing aridification and a “new normal” to the region.
According to the report, the drought caused roughly $11.4–$23 billion in economic losses in 2020—including impacts from associated wildfires. Economic losses for 2021 will also be substantial, and the drought is expected to continue at least into next year.
NIDIS regional coordinator Molly Woloszy will help guide the overall direction of the NASA DEVELOP program at NCEI by playing an essential role in both the development and execution of the NCEI projects, helping gather project ideas, connecting to partners, and advising the NCEI fellow and participants.
Americans’ health, security and economic wellbeing are tied to climate and weather. Every day, we see communities grappling with environmental challenges due to unusual or extreme events related to climate and weather.