Durham Reporter

In July 2023, Vermont experienced an intense rainstorm that severely damaged infrastructure. The storm resulted in roads being washed away and bridges collapsing due to the force of the water. "After the rain subsided the next morning, we ventured outside to survey the damage," one resident recalled. A small stream transformed into a raging river overnight, revealing how unprepared infrastructure can be for extreme weather.

The storm dropped approximately four inches of rain within hours, compounding nearly six inches from the previous week. This saturation led to widespread flooding throughout Vermont, with damages exceeding $1 billion in 2023 alone. In 2024, further extreme weather caused additional destruction and loss of life.

Similarly, Hurricane Helene wreaked havoc in Asheville, North Carolina, causing significant loss of life and becoming one of five billion-dollar cyclones in the U.S. last year. These events highlight concerns about whether current infrastructure is designed to withstand such severe weather conditions.

To address these challenges, information on precipitation frequency from NOAA's Atlas 14 is crucial. However, its estimates assume climate patterns remain constant over time—a notion proven incorrect by shifting precipitation averages across decades.

NOAA Atlas 15 aims to overcome these limitations by incorporating nonstationary modeling techniques to provide accurate precipitation estimates for present and future periods. Set for completion by 2027, it will offer up-to-date data essential for designing resilient infrastructure capable of withstanding extreme weather events.

"Although we do not know exactly when or where the next extreme storm will hit," NOAA Atlas 15's development will aid municipalities in better preparing their infrastructure against future threats. This initiative seeks to minimize environmental and economic impacts while prioritizing public safety through informed planning decisions.