H.R. 4302: Improving Atmospheric River Forecasts Act

The bill titled the **Improving Atmospheric River Forecasts Act** aims to enhance the accuracy of weather forecasts, particularly focusing on atmospheric rivers which can cause significant precipitation in the western United States. Here are the key components of the bill:

Subseasonal to Seasonal Forecasting Pilot Projects

The bill directs the Under Secretary of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to establish pilot projects that will improve precipitation forecasts for water management in the western U.S. The objectives of these projects include:

• Improving weather models to better represent mountainous terrain and precipitation types (rain vs. snow).
• Enhancing the modeling of atmospheric rivers.
• Resolving challenges in predicting winter weather and storm patterns.
• Advancing the understanding of atmospheric rivers and their effects on precipitation patterns.

The bill allocates $15 million annually from fiscal years 2026 through 2030 to support these pilot projects, which will last five years.

Atmospheric Rivers Forecast Improvement Program

The Under Secretary will also create a program focused on improving atmospheric river forecasts in partnership with the weather industry and academic institutions. Key goals of this program include:

• Reducing loss of life, property damage, and economic impact from atmospheric rivers by enhancing forecasts.
• Establishing metrics to assess forecasting accuracy and effectiveness.
• Developing an integrated atmospheric river forecast system that provides timely information on snowfall and hydrology.
• Creating tools to predict when and where atmospheric rivers will impact the U.S.
• Facilitating the transition from research to operational forecasting to better utilize new discoveries and technologies.
• Incorporating social and economic sciences into forecasting efforts to improve communication and public understanding of risks.

Implementation and Oversight

Within 270 days of the bill's enactment, the Under Secretary must produce a detailed plan for the program, addressing necessary activities and resources. The plan will include annual budget submissions to Congress to fund the outlined activities.

Innovative Observations and Data Usage

The bill encourages the use of innovative methods for gathering observational data and emphasizes continual evaluation and adaptation of practices to improve atmospheric river forecasts.

Research and Equipment Support

The Under Secretary will ensure the necessary aircraft and equipment are available for atmospheric river reconnaissance, which includes collecting and managing data vital for research and operational purposes.

Communication of Weather Hazards

The bill also provides for the development of effective communication strategies regarding atmospheric rivers, stressing the importance of informing communities about the risks and benefits associated with these systems.

Relevant Companies

• NOAA: As a governmental body responsible for weather forecasting and monitoring, NOAA will be directly involved in implementing the provisions of this bill. Increased funding may affect budgets and operational strategies.