Trump Administration’s NOAA Cuts Threaten Weather Forecasting and Climate Research

Layoffs and budget reductions at NOAA risk undermining critical weather predictions, disaster preparedness, and climate science initiatives.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) faces over 2,300 layoffs under the Trump administration, representing nearly 20% of its workforce.
Staffing cuts have already disrupted essential operations, including weather balloon launches, hurricane plane deployments, and fisheries stock assessments, jeopardizing public safety and a $320 billion fishing industry.
NOAA has canceled its monthly climate and weather update calls due to reduced staffing and fears of political retaliation for discussing climate change.
The administration’s Project 2025 plan includes proposals to privatize the National Weather Service, raising concerns about increased costs and reduced accessibility for critical weather information.
Experts warn that the cuts could compromise disaster preparedness, hinder climate research, and negatively impact global reliance on U.S. weather data and forecasting.