The National Center for Atmospheric Research, a cornerstone of U.S. weather and climate science, is facing a potential restructuring that could effectively dismantle the institution, raising alarm among scientists and emergency management officials.
The National Science Foundation announced a review of the Boulder-based center’s operations, which could include transferring its supercomputing resources, relocating research aircraft, and narrowing the scope of its modeling and forecasting work. NCAR has been at the forefront of atmospheric research since its founding in 1960.
“NCAR’s integrated approach to modeling the atmosphere, oceans, and land systems is not easily replicated,” said Margaret Leinen, a former NOAA official. “Breaking it apart could weaken the nation’s forecasting and research infrastructure.”
The review comes amid broader federal reductions in climate and weather science funding. Earlier budget proposals called for cuts of roughly 40% to NCAR, and some administration officials have criticized the center as promoting what they describe as “climate alarmism.”
Scientists warn that disrupting NCAR’s operations could compromise hurricane forecasts, wildfire modeling, flood predictions, and other critical public safety tools. Lawmakers from Colorado have also expressed concern about potential threats to both public safety and U.S. competitiveness in atmospheric science.
The NSF said the review process aims to “rescope” NCAR’s functions while consulting with stakeholders, but details remain uncertain. “Nothing has been finalized,” an NSF spokesperson said.
UCAR, the managing body for NCAR, called the proposal “deeply concerning” and emphasized the center’s role in protecting lives and informing policy decisions.
The outcome of the review could have long-term implications for U.S. weather research, climate modeling, and disaster preparedness.