The Trump administration’s cost-cutting plan may result in the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) shedding an additional 1,000 employees, as reported by various sources. This federal agency, responsible for overseeing the world’s weather and climate, including the National Weather Service, recently downsized by over 880 employees in late February. Despite declining to comment on the layoffs, NOAA remains committed to its mission of providing essential information, research, and resources for the American public to enhance environmental and economic resilience. The New York Times reported that the current reductions could equate to nearly 20% of NOAA’s workforce of around 13,000 employees. Staffing shortages have already led to the suspension of certain activities, such as launching weather balloons. All U.S. government agencies have been instructed to devise layoff plans by March 13, with proposals likely aiming to streamline NOAA’s operations. NOAA plays a crucial role in safeguarding lives through its monitoring and forecasting of severe weather, daily weather patterns, and long-term climate trends. With a diverse workforce of engineers and scientists, NOAA’s responsibilities encompass data collection, research, managing oceanic resources, and protecting marine species. Various agencies fall under NOAA’s umbrella, including the National Weather Service, Storm Prediction Center, and National Marine Fisheries Service.
