1. United States
2. Fla.
3. Letter

I am writing to you today as a concerned constituent with a pressing issue that directly impacts the safety and well-being of our communities, especially as hurricane season officially begins. I urge you to strongly oppose any and all funding cuts to crucial agencies like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the National Weather Service (NWS). These agencies are the backbone of our nation's severe weather prediction capabilities, providing the vital forecasts and warnings that allow us to prepare for and respond to intense weather events like hurricanes and tornadoes. As we enter what is predicted to be an active hurricane season, diminishing their resources would be a grave mistake with potentially catastrophic consequences. Reports indicate that budget cuts and staffing reductions at NOAA and NWS can lead to: * Less accurate and timely forecasts: Fewer meteorologists, reduced weather balloon launches, and cuts to critical data collection programs directly hinder the ability to track and predict storms with precision. This means less lead time for evacuations and preparations. * Reduced research and technological advancements: Cutting funding for research and development, including next-generation radar systems, could impede our progress in improving forecasting models and tools, ultimately putting us at a disadvantage in the face of increasingly complex weather patterns. * Strain on existing personnel: Staffing shortages force remaining employees to stretch resources thin, increasing the risk of burnout and errors in critical forecasting operations. * Compromised public safety: Ultimately, less accurate and timely information puts lives and property at greater risk. The economic and human cost of poorly predicted or warned-against storms far outweighs any perceived savings from budget cuts. Our ability to protect citizens and infrastructure from severe weather hinges on the robust capabilities of NOAA and NWS. Investing in these agencies is not merely an expenditure; it is an essential investment in public safety, economic stability, and national resilience. I implore you to advocate for full and sustained funding for NOAA and NWS. Please stand with your constituents and prioritize the safety of our communities by ensuring these vital agencies have the resources they need to continue their life-saving work. Thank you for your immediate attention to this critical matter.