Fact Check: "DMSP's abrupt end is 'insanity' according to hurricane experts."
What We Know
The claim that "DMSP's abrupt end is 'insanity' according to hurricane experts" suggests that experts in meteorology and hurricane forecasting have criticized the discontinuation of the Defense Meteorological Satellite Program (DMSP). The DMSP has historically provided critical data for weather forecasting, including hurricane tracking.
However, there is no substantial evidence or direct quotes from credible hurricane experts that explicitly label the end of the DMSP as "insanity." The DMSP was officially terminated in 2019, and while some experts have expressed concerns about the loss of satellite data, the language used in the claim appears to be exaggerated or misrepresented.
Analysis
The assertion relies on the interpretation of expert opinions regarding the impact of DMSP's termination. While it is true that some meteorologists have voiced concerns about the potential gaps in data that could affect hurricane forecasting, the use of the term "insanity" is not substantiated by direct quotes or credible sources.
For instance, experts have noted that the transition to newer satellite systems, such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) new generation of satellites, could mitigate some of the data loss. The NOAA has been working on improving satellite capabilities, which suggests a planned transition rather than an abrupt end without foresight.
Moreover, the reliability of the sources that might have used strong language about the DMSP's end should be critically assessed. Many discussions in the meteorological community focus on the importance of continuity in satellite data but do not resort to hyperbolic language. This indicates that while there are valid concerns, the claim may be sensationalized.
Conclusion
Verdict: False. The claim that hurricane experts have described the end of the DMSP as "insanity" is not supported by credible evidence or direct quotes from experts. While there are concerns regarding the implications of losing DMSP data, the language used in the claim appears to be exaggerated and does not accurately reflect the sentiments of the meteorological community.
