During these tough economic times, government has set in place many spending cuts. Now, due to federal spending cuts, the air squadron which performs hurricane research may have its operations budget cut by 40%. This air squadron has helped hurricane forecasters more accurately track storms over the last decade
While the budget cut proposal is many months away from becoming a reality, a red flag has been raised with top forecasters. They worry that reduced flights or hours for the planes they used to track hurricanes will stall their efforts to better computer forecast models.
Apart from the short-term effect of lowering operating costs, those cuts may lead to high long-term costs. Improved forecasts can help save lives and money. The money would be saved because improved forecasts would help communities more effectively conduct evacuations. Luckily, these proposed cuts would not affect the daily flights into active tropical storms. However, these planes are not equipped to conduct the research done by the Hurricane Hunters.
These researchers are rightfully concerned about the potential long term costs of the loss of this valuable research. This research is vital because it helps us all better understand the nature of hurricanes. In turn, the public is better able to prepare for the impending landfall of these storm systems.
At this point in the hurricane season, forecasters predict that tropical activity is going to increase. Accordingly, make sure you have plans in place for your property and family as we will begin to see more tropical storms and hurricanes in the coming months.
On this blog we have posted several articles discussing useful tips on preparing for hurricane season. Our Miami Hurricane Dispute Lawyers are also prepared to assist you with any hurricane damage claim you may have against your insurance company.
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About the Author – Gabriel de las Salas is an attorney with the law firm of Alvarez & Barbara, LLP. His practice is focused on general civil and commercial litigation, including personal injury, insurance claims and real estate disputes. Mr. de las Salas received his B.A., cum laude, from the University of Florida, and his J.D., from Stetson University College of Law.