The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) terminated hundreds of probationary employees on Thursday, including meteorologists responsible for critical local weather forecasts across the United States.
According to former NOAA chief scientist Craig McLean, the agency plans to cut approximately 1,300 positions in two rounds - representing about 10% of NOAA's workforce. The first wave targeted probationary employees, affecting around 375 staff members at the National Weather Service (NWS).
The dismissals are part of broader workforce reduction efforts led by Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) under the Trump administration, which has characterized the federal workforce as inefficient.
Democratic Representatives Grace Meng and Jared Huffman strongly criticized the decision. "These are dedicated, hardworking Americans whose efforts help save lives and property from the devastating impacts of natural disasters across the country," stated Rep. Meng.
Climate scientist Daniel Swain from UCLA warned that the cuts could severely impact public safety and the economy's resilience to weather-related disasters.
The layoffs at NOAA follow similar terminations of probationary employees across other federal agencies. Critics argue these cuts will compromise the agency's ability to provide accurate weather forecasting and natural disaster warnings that protect American lives and property.
The second round of cuts at NOAA is expected to affect an additional 800 positions, though specific details and timing remain unclear.