Understaffed and Underfunded: NWS Faces Hurricane Season Amid Budget Cuts

Budget Cuts to National Weather Service Raise Concerns Ahead of Hurricane Season The National Weather Service (NWS) is facing budget cuts that have raised serious concerns about its ability to prepare for the upcoming hurricane season. These cuts, combined with recent staff departures, have left many weather forecasting offices understaffed and without overnight personnel. This is particularly alarming given that climate change is leading to more intense hurricanes with higher wind speeds and heavier rainfall. "Regardless of what app you're using to get your weather info, it's coming from the NOAA and the NWS," explains Chelsea Frisbie, a senior producer/correspondent featured in a recent NowThis Impact video. "Because of the cuts, many weather forecasting offices no longer have overnight staff and are just short-staffed in general." Frisbie's video highlights the potential for delayed warnings and reduced preparedness, leaving communities vulnerable to the devastating effects of severe weather. The situation is exacerbated by the Trump administration's decision to stop tracking the costs of extreme weather events. This makes it harder for researchers and policymakers to understand the patterns of these disasters and their economic consequences. The lack of data further hampers efforts to allocate resources and improve preparedness. The NWS plays a critical role in protecting lives and property during severe weather events. The understaffing and lack of funding raise serious questions about the nation's ability to effectively respond to future hurricanes and other extreme weather events. It's a situation that demands immediate attention and increased funding to ensure the safety and well-being of communities across the country.