About the Louisiana Office of State Climatology
Louisiana's Climate Authority Since 1980
The Louisiana Office of State Climatology (LOSC) serves as Louisiana's authoritative source for climate data, monitoring, and decision-support. Housed at Louisiana State University in the Department of Oceanography and Coastal Sciences, we provide essential climate intelligence to support agriculture, emergency management, coastal resilience, and community planning across the state.
Who We Are
The Louisiana Office of State Climatology was formally established in May 1980 through a contract with the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources, building upon groundwork laid by climatologist Robert A. Muller in 1969 when he re-established the State Climatologist position at LSU.
Today, LOSC serves as Louisiana's comprehensive climate resource center, combining cutting-edge technology with decades of expertise. We operate 24/7 to provide real-time climate monitoring, maintain the state's climate data archive spanning over 100 years, and deliver critical support during weather emergencies. Our work bridges the gap between complex climate science and practical decision-making, translating technical forecasts into actionable information for planners, emergency managers, farmers, coastal communities, and the public.
As part of Louisiana State University's College of the Coast and Environment, LOSC collaborates with the Southern Regional Climate Center, National Weather Service, and numerous state and federal agencies to ensure Louisiana has access to the most accurate, timely, and relevant climate information available.
Our Mission
The Louisiana Office of State Climatology serves as the state's primary resource for climate data, monitoring, and analysis.
Climate Monitoring and Forecasting
- Real-time weather and climate monitoring
- Climate outlooks and seasonal forecasts
- Drought monitoring and fire weather
- Extreme weather event analysis
Data Services
- Historical climate data archiving
- Custom data requests and analysis
- Quality-controlled climate records
- Public data access via Climate Explorer
Research and Analysis
- Climate trend analysis and assessments
- Climate change projections for Louisiana
- Coastal climate dynamics research
- Applied climate research
Emergency Response
- 24/7 support during hurricanes
- Rapid assessments for emergency management
- Coordination with GOHSEP and NWS
- Real-time briefings for state officials
Public Engagement
- Educational resources for schools
- Media partnerships for climate literacy
- Climate workshops and presentations
- Accessible information for all Louisianans
Collaboration and Partnerships
- Federal agency coordination (NOAA, NWS)
- State department partnerships
- Regional climate center collaboration
- Academic and research networks
Our Vision
To be Louisiana's trusted climate authority, empowering communities, industries, and decision-makers with actionable climate intelligence for a resilient future.
We envision a Louisiana where:
Our Foundation
Core Values
- Scientific Excellence
- Public Service
- Accessibility
- Collaboration
- Innovation
Who We Serve
- State and Local Government
- Emergency Management
- Agricultural Sector
- Coastal Communities
- Media and Public
- Researchers and Educators
- Private Sector
What We Do
- Monitor Climate 24/7
- Archive 100+ Years of Data
- Analyze Trends and Impacts
- Forecast Future Conditions
- Support Emergency Response
- Educate Communities
- Innovate with AI Tools
History of LOSC
From our foundation in 1969 to today's cutting-edge climate services, LOSC has been Louisiana's trusted climate authority for over five decades.
Foundation
Robert A. Muller joins LSU's Geography Department and re-establishes the State Climatologist position, initiating what would become the Louisiana Office of State Climatology.
Formal Establishment
LOSC is officially established in May 1980 through a contract with the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources, creating the formal state climate office.
First Grymes Era
Jay Grymes begins his first tenure as Louisiana State Climatologist (1991-2003), leading LOSC through major hurricanes including Andrew, Georges, and expanding the office's emergency response capabilities.
Expanding Mission
LOSC's role expands from basic monitoring to include climate risk assessment, emergency response coordination, and decision-support tools. The office provides critical support during Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, Gustav, and Ike.
New Leadership and Innovation
Jay Grymes returns as Louisiana State Climatologist. LOSC launches innovative tools including the AI-powered Climate Explorer, modernizes its web presence, and expands public engagement.
Looking Forward
LOSC continues to advance Louisiana's climate resilience through enhanced monitoring, cutting-edge technology, and strengthened partnerships with state agencies and communities.
Explore More About LOSC
Meet Our Team
Learn about the experts behind Louisiana's climate services, from our State Climatologist to our research associates.
View Team
Partners and Collaborators
LOSC works with federal agencies, state departments, universities, and regional climate centers to deliver comprehensive services.
See Our Partners
Strategic Roadmap
Explore LOSC's priorities and initiatives for advancing climate services through 2030, from AI tools to expanded monitoring.
View Strategic Plan