Historical weather data is not political

The above seems like an obvious statement, but these days real truths needs to be stated as frequently as possible.

A map of the median start date for the primary long-term U.S. climate sites by state quickly highlights that:

• The whole country values the data.
• Primarily agricultural (often red) states probably have more interest and need than others.

Some of these weather records have been around for so long it’s hard to imagine the scale.

Lansing’s weather history dates to 1863, the middle of the American Civil War and the oldest of the bunch. The Big Apple’s Central Park is also one of the oldest, in place since 1869.

We must protect rather than trash this data. It’s not only numbers but a history of where we’ve been and what we’ve lived through. It informs our daily lives, offers insight into forecasts and gives needed perspective.

There are fires all over these days, so it’s hard to figure out where to focus. This is an issue all sides should be able to agree on. Call you representatives — the Capitol switchboard is (202) 224-3121 — and tell them NOAA scientists and its world-renowned data matter. If you can’t reach the right person in D.C., give state offices a try.

Check out the U.S. and world weather data compiled here so far. The list will grow!