The FORECAST Act directs the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to improve weather forecasting and climate prediction, particularly for subseasonal-to-seasonal forecasts that predict temperature and precipitation patterns weeks to months in advance. The bill requires NOAA to enhance its forecasting capabilities by developing advanced computer models, improving data collection and analysis methods, and creating a public online clearinghouse to share forecasts at national and regional levels. It also establishes a new workforce development program to recruit and train scientists, engineers, and researchers in weather modeling, artificial intelligence, and advanced computing. The legislation authorizes $28.5 million annually for fiscal years 2026 and 2027 for subseasonal-to-seasonal forecasting improvements, plus additional unspecified funding for workforce development programs and activities at universities and nonprofit organizations. Within two years, NOAA must report to Congress on how effectively these workforce investments are preparing the next generation of weather and Earth system modeling professionals.
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