In a significant turn of events, NOAA has announced that its research websites will not be shutting down as previously scheduled, following a contract extension. This decision comes in light of looming contract cuts that had threatened the existence of key US Weather Agency websites. The initial plans indicated a potential loss of access to multiple NOAA websites, which drew criticism from various stakeholders who expressed concerns over the impact on scientific research. Despite earlier indications of imminent shutdowns, the agency confirmed that its websites would remain operational, alleviating fears of a crisis in public access to weather data and research.