US EditionSouth Florida meteorologist warns viewers NWS staff shortages will impact his hurricane forecasts
- South Florida meteorologist John Morales warned on June 2, 2025, that National Weather Service staffing cuts are degrading hurricane forecasts.
- Morales linked the forecast degradation to nearly 600 NWS staff cuts and resource reductions initiated by the Trump administration's Department of Government Efficiency.
- These cuts caused a 20% decline in weather balloon launches and left NWS offices 20% to 40% understaffed in central and southern Florida, straining data collection.
- Morales encouraged viewers to reach out to their elected officials to oppose the proposed funding reductions, highlighting the potential dangers these cuts pose to life and property.
- The staffing shortages and proposed budget rescissions threaten hurricane forecast accuracy during an expected above-average 2025 season, potentially increasing danger for affected communities.
15 Articles
15 Articles
Climate Matters: Hurricane forecasting in turmoil as season begins
The United States is on the cusp of another above-average hurricane season while NOAA continues to work through federal funding cuts and loss of staffing. Nearly 600 employees have been let go from the National Weather Service, but the agency is now reversing course and looking to fill over 100 critical vacant positions as hurricane season gets underway. Dr. Anthony Lupo, a climate professor at the University of Missouri who also produces the un…
Meteorologist Warns of Less Accurate Forecasts
A Florida meteorologist told viewers live on air that he will no longer be able to accurately predict hurricanes as a result the Trump administration’s drastic cuts to weather and climate agencies, The Guardian reports.
NWS & NOAA staffing shortages cause concern as hurricane season begins
The government agencies that are responsible for weather safety have been under extreme pressure because of cuts. Now, some lawmakers are sounding the alarm about a staffing shortage at the National Weather Service and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Veteran meteorologist warns NWS cuts could jeopardize hurricane forecasts
As the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season ramps up, a longtime Florida meteorologist is sounding the alarm over staffing cuts at the National Weather Service (NWS). Miami’s NBC6 meteorologist John Morales warned that reductions in personnel and resources could degrade the accuracy of storm forecasts, putting lives and property at greater risk. It comes as forecasters predict an above-average season in 2025. Morales’ warning Morales shared a 2019 cl…
Ahead of wildfire season, Sen. Cantwell says staff shortage at National Weather Service has a 'dangerous impact'
Washington Sen. Maria Cantwell has voiced concern over staffing cuts at the National Weather Service, which she says have left much of the country ill-prepared for this year’s hurricane and fire seasons.
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