Mark Gordon: “this hurricane season was predicted to be an active one. Unfortunately, the prediction is being fulfilled. We have not…”

“this hurricane season was predicted to be an active one. Unfortunately, the prediction is being fulfilled. We have not yet come to the end of the season and already the eastern half of the country has experienced widespread damage due to three of these storms--hurricanes Charley, Frances and Ivan. In addition, two other offshore hurricanes are being monitored as we speak. The severe coastal damage in Florida and Alabama, widespread inland flooding, and tornadoes have resulted in loss of life and property throughout the eastern part of the nation--including my home state of Tennessee. We should move quickly to provide assistance to our citizens who are now beginning to assess the damage and make plans to rebuild their homes, communities and businesses. They have a daunting task in the days ahead. The effects of these storms are devastating, however, without accurate forecasting and time to prepare the toll in human lives would have been unimaginable. Our investments in research and development, weather satellites, specialized aircraft and computer modeling capability coupled with the dedication and professionalism of NOAA's employees has paid off in the timely warnings that we rely upon. Madam Speaker, with this resolution we express our gratitude to the federal employees and their partners in the commercial weather business for their efforts in bringing the life-saving warnings and forecasts to our citizens.”