WASHINGTON (AP) — The Trump administration plans to cut over 1,000 jobs at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). This represents about 10% of their workforce, according to sources familiar with the situation. The cuts are part of a broader push within the agency that has already seen significant reductions in staff.
NOAA plays a crucial role in monitoring our environment. While many associate the agency with daily weather updates, it is also responsible for tracking hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, and tsunamis. Additionally, NOAA manages fisheries, protects marine sanctuaries, and helps navigate ships. It even tracks climate changes and offers warnings about potential space weather impacts, such as those that could disrupt the electrical grid.
The impending job cuts come after previous reductions in staff and hiring freezes. Since President Trump took office, NOAA has seen nearly a quarter of its jobs eliminated. This not only raises concerns about government efficiency but also sparks fears about the agency’s ability to fulfill its mission effectively.
Former NOAA Administrator Rick Spinrad warned that these cuts threaten the agency’s capabilities. He argued that the lack of clear guidance on how to proceed with the layoffs adds to the uncertainty. NOAA’s spokesperson, Monica Allen, stated that, despite these internal changes, the agency will continue to provide essential weather information.
Recently, NOAA has already ceased releasing some weather balloons critical for accurate forecasting in locations like Albany, New York, and Gray, Maine, citing a shortage of staff. This is a troubling sign, especially as severe storm systems are forecasted to impact central and southern U.S. areas with strong winds and potential tornadoes.
Experts like former NOAA chief scientist Craig McLean caution that people will soon notice the effects of these staffing cuts. A decline in the accuracy of weather forecasts is likely, which can also affect commercial fishing operations. McLean emphasized that ongoing budget cuts in research grants for universities will hinder advancements in weather forecasting and climate monitoring.
In today’s climate of technological competition, McLean highlighted that the U.S. risks losing its status as a leader in weather science and innovation. “We’ve accomplished remarkable feats in the past, but our forecasting capabilities don’t reflect that legacy,” he said.
As the situation unfolds, the impacts of these job cuts will likely resonate far beyond NOAA, affecting public safety and environmental management efforts across the country.
For further reading on NOAA’s role in weather forecasting and climate change, visit NOAA’s official website.
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Source linkNational Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Donald Trump, Associated Press, Labor, General news, Climate and environment, Craig McLean, Business, Washington news, U.S. news, Rick Spinrad, Weather, Power outages, Government and politics, U.S. News, Climate, Politics
