The Providing Research and Estimates of Changes In Precipitation (PRECIP) Act would give the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) the necessary directive and resources to modernize and periodically update precipitation frequency studies, such as Atlas 14. Such studies are used across the nation to inform design and planning standards for construction projects and regulations. The PRECIP Act would also direct NOAA to develop maximum rainfall studies using forward-looking data that projects future conditions based on sea level rise and other factors. Ensuring such studies are accurate and forward-looking is critical for any water infrastructure designed to protect life and property from flooding.
WHY WE LIKE IT
From roads to stormwater systems, Atlas 14 data is one of the most consequential components of planning and construction decisions at all levels of government. Unfortunately, NOAA has neither the funding nor the directive to regularly update this critical information. Moreover, Atlas 14 has not been updated to incorporate forward-looking data, a crucial gap for any flood risk modeling. The PRECIP Act would address these shortcomings and provide NOAA with the directive and funding to conduct and update precipitation frequency studies.
