Press Releases

Rep. Scott Franklin (FL-18) today welcomed the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) announcement of a new suite of operational, artificial intelligence-driven global weather forecasting models, calling the move an important step toward faster, more accurate forecasts and improved preparedness for extreme weather.

“Integrating artificial intelligence into weather forecasting has the potential to significantly improve the speed and accuracy of forecasts relied upon by states like Florida and the nation as a whole,” Franklin said. “NOAA’s launch of these AI-driven models represents meaningful progress in modernizing forecasting capabilities and equipping forecasters and emergency managers with better tools to prepare for severe weather and wildfire risks. I’ve long supported responsibly incorporating AI into NOAA’s work, including through my TAME Extreme Weather Act and provisions advanced in the Weather Act, and I encourage the House to pass the Weather Act to continue this momentum.”

Last week, NOAA announced the rollout of a new suite of AI-driven global weather prediction models designed to improve forecast speed, efficiency, and accuracy while using fewer computational resources. The models will operate alongside NOAA’s existing forecasting systems and include AI-based global and ensemble models, as well as a first-of-its-kind hybrid system that combines artificial intelligence with traditional physical forecasting models.

Franklin is the author of the TAME Extreme Weather Act, legislation he introduced in multiple Congresses to direct NOAA to develop domestic datasets for AI forecasting, partner with private industry and academia, and integrate AI-based models into operational forecasts for weather and wildfires. During committee consideration of the Weather Act earlier this fall, Franklin also advanced these priorities through an amendment encouraging NOAA’s use of AI forecasting tools, which was included in the committee-passed bill.

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