1. United States
2. W.V.
3. Letter

Hurricanes pose a grave threat to communities across the United States, and it is critical that the government agencies responsible for tracking, preparing for, and responding to these disasters have the resources they need. The recent cuts to staffing, training, and funding at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) are deeply concerning. These cuts undermine the ability of these agencies to fulfill their vital missions effectively. With a potentially busy hurricane season ahead, it is imperative that NOAA and FEMA are fully staffed with experienced professionals and have access to the necessary data, equipment, and resources to accurately forecast storms, communicate risks, and coordinate emergency response efforts. Failing to properly support these agencies puts lives and property at risk. I urge you to take immediate action to restore funding, lift hiring freezes, and provide NOAA and FEMA with the robust support they require. Protecting Americans from the devastation of hurricanes should be a top priority. These agencies play an indispensable role in safeguarding our communities, and they cannot do so effectively with diminished capacities. Please act swiftly to ensure NOAA and FEMA have the tools and personnel needed to carry out their crucial work this hurricane season and beyond.