# FORECAST Act of 2025 - Plain Language Summary

## What This Bill Does

The FORECAST Act aims to improve the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) ability to predict weather patterns weeks and months in advance. Currently, weather forecasts are most accurate for 1-2 weeks ahead. This bill focuses on "subseasonal-to-seasonal" forecasting—predicting weather conditions 2-8 weeks and even a full season in advance. The legislation directs NOAA to conduct more research, develop better computer models, and use new technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning to make these longer-range forecasts more reliable and useful.

## Key Provisions

The bill requires NOAA to:
- **Improve forecast models** by combining data from multiple sources (ocean, land, ice, atmosphere) to better understand what drives weather patterns
- **Create an online clearinghouse** where the public and decision-makers can access these forecasts at national and regional levels
- **Use emerging technologies** including AI, machine learning, and unmanned systems to enhance predictions
- **Connect forecasts to real-world impacts** by explaining how temperature and precipitation predictions relate to tornadoes, droughts, hurricanes, floods, heat waves, and other disasters

## Who Benefits

Farmers, water managers, emergency planners, and the general public would benefit from more accurate long-range forecasts. Better seasonal predictions help farmers plan crops, water utilities manage resources, and emergency management agencies prepare for severe weather. The bill authorizes $28.5 million for fiscal years 2026-2027 to fund these improvements.