The "Fixing Gaps in Hurricane Preparedness Act" requires the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), in consultation with the National Science Foundation, to conduct research and development. This initiative aims to improve understanding of how the public receives, interprets, responds to, and values hurricane forecasts and warnings, ultimately enhancing preparedness and communication strategies. The research involves a comprehensive review of existing knowledge, identifying data gaps, and conducting social and behavioral research to inform evidence-based updates to forecasts. It will also evaluate the economic value of extended warning lead times, perform various assessments, and conduct cost-benefit analyses of forecast improvements, specifically considering vulnerable populations and diverse demographic groups. Additionally, NOAA must establish policies for collecting and archiving data on community responses to tropical systems, and a pilot study is mandated within 180 days. This study will use mixed methods to gather information from hurricane-prone areas on preparedness levels, evacuation decisions, trust in information sources, and factors influencing evacuation willingness.
Referred to the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology.
Science, Technology, Communications
Fixing Gaps in Hurricane Preparedness Act
USA119th CongressHR-4563| House
| Updated: 7/21/2025
The "Fixing Gaps in Hurricane Preparedness Act" requires the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), in consultation with the National Science Foundation, to conduct research and development. This initiative aims to improve understanding of how the public receives, interprets, responds to, and values hurricane forecasts and warnings, ultimately enhancing preparedness and communication strategies. The research involves a comprehensive review of existing knowledge, identifying data gaps, and conducting social and behavioral research to inform evidence-based updates to forecasts. It will also evaluate the economic value of extended warning lead times, perform various assessments, and conduct cost-benefit analyses of forecast improvements, specifically considering vulnerable populations and diverse demographic groups. Additionally, NOAA must establish policies for collecting and archiving data on community responses to tropical systems, and a pilot study is mandated within 180 days. This study will use mixed methods to gather information from hurricane-prone areas on preparedness levels, evacuation decisions, trust in information sources, and factors influencing evacuation willingness.