In an inspiring example of civic responsibility, climate research nonprofit Climate Central has stepped forward to maintain a critical public resource that tracks billion-dollar weather and climate disasters across the United States.

When the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's disaster tracking database was discontinued in May, Climate Central recognized the importance of this information to communities, researchers, insurers, and everyday Americans. The organization took decisive action, hiring Adam Smith, the expert who had produced the original disaster reports for NOAA, to continue this essential work.

Smith brought not only his expertise but also the database methodology with him, ensuring seamless continuity of this decades-long tracking effort. This remarkable transition demonstrates how dedicated professionals and mission-driven organizations can work together to preserve vital public services.

The newly established Billion-Dollar Disasters Database at Climate Central maintains the same rigorous standards as its government predecessor, allowing for consistent analysis going back to 1980. This continuity is invaluable for understanding long-term trends and helping communities prepare for future challenges.

The 2025 data reveals important patterns that can help Americans better protect themselves and their properties. The report documented 23 separate billion-dollar disasters totaling $115 billion in damages, ranking as the third-highest year on record for disaster frequency. While these numbers are sobering, having access to this information empowers communities, businesses, and policymakers to make informed decisions about preparedness and resilience.

One particularly noteworthy finding shows that severe weather events like tornadoes and hailstorms are being tracked with unprecedented detail, with 21 such occurrences documented in 2025. This level of data helps meteorologists and emergency managers better understand storm patterns and improve warning systems that save lives.

The database also revealed that remarkably, 2025 saw no landfalling hurricanes contribute to the disaster total—a silver lining in an otherwise challenging year. This demonstrates the unpredictable nature of weather patterns and the importance of preparing for various types of extreme events.

Climate Central has announced exciting plans to expand the database in coming years, potentially incorporating smaller-scale disasters and other advances that could make the information even more useful to local communities. This forward-thinking approach shows the organization's commitment to not just maintaining the status quo, but actively improving upon it.

The transition also highlights how specialized knowledge and dedication to public service can transcend institutional changes. Smith's decision to continue this important work ensures that decades of carefully compiled data remain accessible and useful.

For taxpayers, media professionals, researchers, and industry specialists who rely on this information, Climate Central's initiative provides reassurance that critical climate and weather tracking will continue uninterrupted. The database remains freely accessible, maintaining transparency and supporting informed decision-making across sectors.

This story exemplifies how passionate professionals and mission-driven organizations can collaborate to ensure important public resources endure, adapt, and even improve over time. It's a testament to the resilience of civic infrastructure and the dedication of those who believe in serving the public good.