Overview

• The Trump administration has proposed a 25% budget cut to NOAA, including plans to eliminate its research arm, following the loss of over 800 jobs since January 2025.
• Staffing shortages have led to reduced weather balloon launches and scaled-back forecasting services, with the Sacramento NWS office halting public phone support and social media updates.
• Meteorologists warn that diminished NOAA capacity will degrade forecast accuracy, potentially endangering lives during the predicted above-average 2025 hurricane season.
• Colorado State University and AccuWeather forecast up to 10 hurricanes this season, with at least four expected to reach major strength, as Atlantic waters remain unusually warm.
• Critics argue the cuts risk privatizing essential weather services and undermining NOAA’s nonpartisan mission, which historically delivers a $6 return for every $1 invested.