In quite a controversial move, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) removed a climate risk map from its official website. This map, which provided critical insights into future climate hazards, had been a valuable tool for researchers, policymakers, and the general public. Its deletion is part of a broader pattern of data suppression and environmental deregulation under the Trump administration, raising concerns about transparency and access to crucial scientific information.
The removal of the FEMA climate risk map wasn’t an isolated incident. Over the past few years, various government agencies have been directed to alter or eliminate climate-related content. The Department of Agriculture (USDA), for example, was ordered to erase references to climate change from its websites, affecting resources like the Climate Change Resource Center. Similarly, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) saw the deletion of datasets related to public health risks associated with climate change.
When the US Federal Emergency Management Agency removed a map of future climate hazards from its website, researchers built their own version. https://t.co/bUcO9cgDvl
— New Scientist (@newscientist) March 6, 2025
These actions have prompted outrage among scientists and environmentalists, who argue that suppressing such data hinders public preparedness and informed decision-making.
In response to the removal of the climate risk map, a group of independent scientists has taken it upon themselves to reconstruct the data.
Impact on Research and Public Safety
The consequences of removing climate-related data from government websites are far-reaching. Scientists rely on publicly available data to track environmental changes, predict natural disasters, and develop mitigation strategies. Without access to this information, research efforts are severely hampered.
- Disrupting Climate Research
Researchers studying climate patterns depend on government databases to model future risks. The removal of climate risk maps and other environmental data forces scientists to seek alternative, often less comprehensive, sources. This not only slows down research but also affects the accuracy of climate predictions. - Threats to Public Safety
FEMA’s climate risk map helped communities prepare for potential disasters such as floods, hurricanes, and wildfires. With the map now gone, local governments and residents may lack the necessary information to take proactive measures. This increases the likelihood of unpreparedness in the face of extreme weather events. - Loss of International Collaboration
The U.S. previously played a key role in global climate research, sharing air quality data and climate models with other nations. However, recent policies have reduced international data sharing, weakening global efforts to combat climate change. - Economic Consequences
Insurance companies, urban planners, and agricultural businesses rely on climate data to assess risks and make informed investments. Without access to reliable government data, businesses may face unexpected financial losses due to unforeseen climate-related disasters.
Scientists to Reconstruct Climate Risk Map
In response to the removal of the climate risk map, a group of independent scientists has taken it upon themselves to reconstruct the data, and posted it as the Future Risk Index. Using publicly available records, archived datasets, and advanced modeling techniques, they have rebuilt a version of the map to ensure continued public access.
- Data Rescue Operations
Grassroots movements, led by researchers, librarians, and volunteers, have been working to preserve at-risk environmental data. These initiatives involve downloading and archiving government-hosted datasets before they are removed. - Citizen Science and Open-Source Solutions
Scientists and programmers have developed open-source climate models to replace government-hosted ones. By making these models freely available, they ensure that research can continue without reliance on politically controlled data sources. - Legal Challenges and Public Advocacy
Environmental groups and concerned citizens have filed lawsuits challenging the removal of public climate data. Legal actions aim to hold government agencies accountable for suppressing critical scientific information. - International Partnerships
With reduced data-sharing from U.S. agencies, scientists are forming new collaborations with international organizations. European and Canadian climate agencies have stepped up efforts to fill gaps left by missing U.S. contributions.
The Broader Pattern of Scientific Suppression
The removal of the FEMA climate risk map is just one example of a wider effort to limit access to scientific information. Several other troubling actions have taken place under the Trump administration:
- Mass Layoffs of Scientists
Agencies like NOAA and the CDC have seen large-scale dismissals, reducing their ability to conduct climate and health research. - Funding Cuts for Research
The National Science Foundation (NSF) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) have experienced grant freezes and budget cuts, disrupting ongoing scientific projects. - Policy Changes Favoring Industry
Regulations that previously required businesses to consider climate risks have been rolled back, favoring short-term economic interests over long-term sustainability.
Why This Matters
The fight over climate data isn’t just a battle among scientists – it affects everyone. Accurate climate information helps communities prepare for natural disasters, businesses plan for the future, and policymakers make informed decisions. The deliberate suppression of this information puts lives, economies, and ecosystems at risk.
Fortunately, the scientific community is quite resourceful. Researchers are working around political obstacles to ensure that essential data remains accessible. However, this situation shows the need for continued vigilance in protecting scientific integrity.
If you’re concerned about the suppression of scientific data, there are ways to take action:
- Support Independent Research Organizations
Many non-governmental organizations are stepping up to fill the gap left by restricted government data. Supporting these groups can help ensure continued research and data accessibility. - Advocate for Open Data Policies
Public pressure can influence government policies. Raising awareness and pushing for transparency in scientific reporting can help prevent future data suppression. - Stay Informed and Share Information
Misinformation thrives when people are unaware of what’s happening. Sharing credible news sources and scientific findings can help keep the public engaged.
The Future of Climate Data
Despite efforts to suppress climate information, scientists and activists are finding ways to keep essential data accessible. The rebuilding of the climate risk map is a clear sign of resistance of the scientific community. While political decisions may continue to challenge research and transparency, those committed to understanding and addressing climate change are determined to push forward.
With ongoing collaboration, legal action, and public support, the fight for open science will continue, making it harder for any administration to erase the facts.