On Thursday, the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) announced the termination of hundreds of employees at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), primarily targeting those on probationary status, including crucial meteorologists responsible for local weather forecasts. This move has sparked alarm among lawmakers and experts regarding its potential impact on public safety.
The layoffs occurred in two phases: the first involved approximately 500 employees, followed by another 800, resulting in nearly 10% of NOAA's workforce being affected. Craig McLean, a former NOAA chief scientist, reported that about 375 of those laid off were probationary employees within the National Weather Service (NWS), which handles day-to-day forecasting and hazard warnings.
These firings are part of a broader initiative aimed at streamlining the federal workforce. Thousands of probationary employees across various government agencies have already faced similar job losses.
Rep. Grace Meng from New York criticized the layoffs, stating they were unjustified and could endanger lives by impairing the agency's ability to respond to natural disasters. She underscored the vital role these employees play in community safety.
Rep. Jared Huffman, a member of the House Natural Resources Committee, also highlighted the significant loss of experienced scientists at NOAA. Experts, including climate scientist Daniel Swain from UCLA, have raised concerns that these cuts could severely impact public safety and the nation’s readiness for weather-related emergencies.