Five former directors of the National Weather Service (N.W.S.) expressed deep concern over recent staffing cuts by the Trump administration, claiming these reductions pose a significant risk to public safety. In an open letter, they argue that the loss of about 10% of the agency's workforce makes it impossible to maintain the current level of service, especially during the height of severe storm predictions. This staffing crisis affects vital forecasting activities that impact aviation, agriculture, and disaster preparedness, ultimately leading to potential loss of life if critical warnings are compromised.
Five former National Weather Service directors warn that cuts by the Trump administration are causing dangerous understaffing, risking lives amid severe weather warnings.
The letter highlights that the loss of 10% of Weather Service staff compromises essential forecasting services, endangering the accuracy of tornado and hurricane predictions.
According to Joe Friday, former N.W.S. director, local forecast offices are unable to maintain necessary operations such as balloon launches, putting forecasting at risk.
The letter states that accurate forecasts are critical not just for severe weather warnings but for various sectors like aviation, agriculture, and maritime operations.
#national-weather-service #staff-cuts #public-safety #severe-weather-forecasting #trump-administration
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