Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Reinsurance Association of America (RAA)

On July 15, 2024, NOAA Administrator Dr. Rick Spinrad and NCEI Director Deke Arndt attended the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Reinsurance Association of America (RAA) and NOAA to formally kick off a partnership with the reinsurance/insurance (“re/insurance”) sector as part of NOAA’s Industry Proving Grounds. Built on over 15 years of prior engagement, this MOU will help leverage NCEI’s climate information, by integrating IPG teams with industry leaders to create new products and services for the re/insurance industry’s tactical and strategic decision-making around climate resilience, particularly in communities most vulnerable to extreme weather events. Following the signing of this MOU, NCEI will continue to build upon existing relationships with RAA and host a kickoff meeting with industry partners in August 2024 to further understand and advance the sector’s needs. “Weather and climate extremes continue to pose a significant risk to communities and our economy,” said Dr. Spinrad. “We know that certain extreme events are increasing, and we know that more people and physical facilities are in harm’s way. This partnership will help improve our ability to make the scientifically informed decisions needed to improve resilience.”