The US Department of Defense will cease providing crucial satellite weather data to scientists and forecasters, impacting hurricane predictions and sea ice monitoring. This decision, effective June 30th, surprises researchers who rely on this data for real-time storm tracking and analysis, particularly during peak hurricane season. While the DoD cites cybersecurity concerns, NOAA claims its existing data sources provide sufficient coverage. However, the abrupt cutoff leaves researchers scrambling to adapt, especially concerning the record low Arctic sea ice levels.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.