The dismissal of highly skilled meteorologists and atmospheric scientists at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and National Weather Service (NWS) is unacceptable. Weather forecasting plays a critical role in protecting American lives and property through advanced warning systems for severe storms, hurricanes, floods, and other natural disasters. Firing the expert staff at these agencies jeopardizes the accuracy and timeliness of weather predictions, putting citizens at increased risk. It doesn’t save the US money or make government more efficient to lose the specialized capabilities of the NOAA and NWS staff. On the contrary, it will cost us all far more in the long run as without their meteorological expertise, local communities will be left vulnerable when life-threatening weather events strike.
A robust and well-staffed NOAA and NWS are vital national resources that must be restored to full operational capacity. I urge you to take immediate action to reverse these reckless personnel cuts and ensure NOAA and NWS are adequately funded and staffed to fulfill their mandate of safeguarding the public. The consequences of failing to do so could prove catastrophic. What actions are you taking to be sure these agencies can fulfill their mandates? Please send me a written response.