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NewsWPLG Local 10 – Main FeedJuly 30, 2026United States

How Hurricane Hunter Aircraft Improve Storm Forecasts and Future Funding Plans

Photo: WPLG Local 10 – Main Feed

New research confirms that data collected by hurricane hunter aircraft significantly improves inland rainfall and track forecasts, saving an estimated $25 million per storm in evacuation costs. In response, a bipartisan group of senators has introduced legislation to double the size of the NOAA hurricane hunter fleet.

HurricaneWeatherNoaaBudget & AppropriationsScienceInfrastructure
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Why It Matters

Proposed federal legislation would authorize $2.5 billion to expand the hurricane hunter aircraft fleet and provide $45 million annually for operations, directly impacting the accuracy of future storm warnings and emergency management costs.

Key Facts

  • Hurricane hunter aircraft data improves track and intensity forecasts by an average of 10 to 20 percent.
  • Improved forecasting reduces track error by approximately 25 miles for four- to five-day forecasts.
  • Coastal evacuations cost approximately $1 million per mile, making forecast improvements worth an estimated $25 million per hurricane.
  • New research confirms that data collected by aircraft before landfall significantly improves post-landfall rainfall and flooding predictions.
  • A bipartisan Senate bill proposes authorizing $2.5 billion to expand the NOAA hurricane hunter fleet from 3 to between 6 and 9 aircraft.
  • The bill includes $45 million in annual funding for routine operations and maintenance of the expanded fleet.
  • NOAA flew 63 missions in 2025; the Air Force flew 77 missions last season.
  • The current NOAA hurricane hunter fleet is 50 years old.
  • The Trump administration previously proposed reducing flight hours by 52% (2023) and 33% (2024) and eliminating certain research laboratories.
  • Congressional committees have consistently rejected proposed budget cuts to NOAA's weather enterprise.

Who's Mentioned

OrganizationNOAA“National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, responsible for hurricane forec”PersonMaria Cantwell“Democratic Senator who co-introduced the bill to expand the hurricane hunter fle”PersonTed Cruz“Republican Senator who co-introduced the bill to expand the hurricane hunter fle”OrganizationTrump administration“Previous administration that proposed budget cuts to NOAA research laboratories.”OrganizationU.S. Air Force“Operates hurricane hunter aircraft alongside NOAA.”