The first half of 2025 has become the most expensive period for climate-related disasters in U.S. history, with wildfires ravaging Los Angeles and extreme storms battering multiple states causing $101 billion in damages, according to data from nonprofit Climate Central. This unprecedented financial toll comes as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) discontinued its federal disaster tracking program following budget cuts initiated during the Trump administration.
Scientists warn the lack of centralized monitoring could hinder global climate mitigation efforts. "Accurate data is the foundation of effective environmental policy," stated a Climate Central spokesperson. "When major economies stop tracking impacts, it creates blind spots for international cooperation."
CGTN's Ediz Tiyansan reports the shutdown coincides with heightened concerns about anthropogenic climate change, particularly as Asian nations accelerate green energy transitions. While U.S. disaster costs surge, analysts note that Southeast Asia's new regional climate risk modeling initiative – launched earlier this year – continues providing real-time data to 18 participating countries.
