US Faces Devastating Losses for Weather Forecasts, Federal Workers Say
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has canceled leases for research centers and slashed its staff, resulting in "devastating" effects on the agency's operations. The federal agency that produces weather forecasts and leads research on climate and the oceans has plans to lay off around 50 percent of its staff. Current employees are warning that these cuts will have a significant impact on the accuracy and reliability of weather forecasts.
- The impending loss of critical weather forecasting infrastructure poses a significant threat to public safety, as severe weather events require timely and accurate forecasts to mitigate damage and save lives.
- How can policymakers ensure that the nation's weather forecasting capabilities remain robust and reliable in the face of such drastic cuts to NOAA's staff and resources?