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News in English (USA) / 07.06.2025 / 03:00

Concerns Grow Over National Weather Service Staffing as New Legislation Introduced

Amid ongoing concerns about the National Weather Service (NWS) staffing levels following significant budget cuts, several lawmakers are introducing bipartisan bills aimed at increasing personnel and protecting current employees. With testimonies indicating that the National Hurricane Center is not fully staffed as claimed, and critical vacancies remaining in various NWS offices, experts warn that these shortages could threaten the accuracy of weather forecasts during an active storm season. While the NWS is attempting to refill positions and has announced a new hiring spree, many meteorologists believe that these efforts will not fully compensate for past layoffs. The upcoming Atlantic hurricane season adds urgency to calls for increased resources, as officials highlight the vital role of the NWS in forecasting extreme weather conditions. Lawmakers, including a Nebraska Congressman and Senator Moran, are leading efforts to prioritize staffing at the NWS to ensure public safety and effective disaster preparedness.
The New York Times, NBC News, CNN, KETV, KUOW, NOLA.com, NBC Chicago, Los Angeles Times, NPR, Reuters