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National Weather Service Issues Flood Warnings Amid Renewed Criticism of Trump’s Staff Cuts

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The deadly floods in Texas have ignited fresh concerns regarding cuts made to the National Weather Service by the Trump administration, which has resulted in fewer warnings and left countless individuals scrambling for safety.

By Sunday evening, at least 79 fatalities had been reported, with many more unaccounted for after a sudden rise in the Texas Hill Country, a region infamously dubbed “Flash Flood Alley.”

Hours following the early morning floods on Friday, some Texas officials voiced their discontent with the NWS, claiming the rainfall predictions were understated. Councillor Jack Kimble, D-Calif., shared on X Saturday his critical remarks, which were in response to a post by Vice President JD Vance. On Sunday, President Donald Trump dismissed the notion of investigating whether NWS cuts contributed to the disaster, while the White House emphasized that he “hates” the idea that the cuts are linked to this tragedy.

Independent meteorologists and former NWS officials have stated that the warnings issued in anticipation of the floods were as timely and accurate as possible given the available real-time weather data. They noted that predicting extreme rainfall and flash floods in short timeframes is inherently challenging, making it difficult to ensure emergency warnings reach those most in danger.

“The forecasts were accurate. The warnings were worthy,” remarked Wisconsin meteorologist Chris Vaguski. “The challenge always lies in ensuring the message reaches the people.”

Despite concerns over leadership shortages in the NWS due to increased staffing gaps, meteorologists do not believe that an understaffed office was a significant factor in the tragic outcomes.

Tom Fahy, Legislative Director of the National Weather Service Employee Union, indicated that the San Antonio Weather Office lacked two vital permanent positions: science officers (responsible for training and implementing new technologies) and warning coordination meteorologists (who coordinate with media and serve as the office’s spokesperson). However, they have staff positioned in leadership roles. Overall, Fahy reported that there were sufficient meteorologists on hand to manage the incident.

“WFO” [weather forecasting offices], Fahy noted on Saturday, expressed concern regarding the absence of unfilled senior positions and effective leadership.

In a statement, the National Weather Service expressed its “grief over the tragic loss of life in Kerr County.” Although the agency did not address staffing issues, it provided a comprehensive timeline of alerts that were issued.

Some officials in Texas have suggested that the forecasts from the National Weather Center did not adequately convey the storm’s threat, while others acknowledged the agency’s timely alerts.

“The initial forecast received from the National Weather Service on Wednesday anticipated 4-8 inches of rain in the Concho Valley and 3-6 inches in the Hill Country,” stated W. Nim Kid, chief of Texas emergency management, during a press conference on Friday. “The actual rainfall in these specific areas exceeded our predictions.”

According to a timeline from the National Water Center, Kerrville, Texas, and surrounding areas were at risk of flash flooding on Thursday, July 3. The NWS Austin/San Antonio issued flood monitoring alerts at 1:18 PM on Thursday, which continued through Friday morning. An emergency flash flood warning was released at 1:14 AM in Kerr County.

Travis County Judge Andy Brown commended the National Weather Service for its warnings, while Eric Carter, the county’s emergency management coordinator, described the service’s efforts as “exceptionally proactive.”

The agency highlighted that it issued flash flood warnings at 1:14 AM on Friday, categorizing the threat as “substantial” or “catastrophic,” and activated wireless emergency alerts on mobile devices.

“The flash flood warning was issued on the evening of July 3 and early morning of July 4, providing over three hours of preliminary lead time,” the statement read.

Concerns regarding staffing and performance arose following the Trump administration’s dismissal of National Weather Service employees this spring, who were offered early retirement and buyouts. By early June, the NWS had lost around 600 personnel, resulting in many seasoned employees exiting and leaving newer or less experienced staff members.

Some NWS offices have seen staffing reductions exceeding 40%, with agents pressed to take on crucial roles in forecasting operations. Consequently, at least eight offices ceased 24-hour operations this spring, with some unable to issue weather warnings.

In May, over 40% of the nation’s weather forecast offices reported staffing rates exceeding 20%. These cuts prompted all living former NWS supervisors to express their distress over staffing levels and ongoing budget reductions through letters.

“Our greatest fear is that insufficient staffing in weather offices could lead to unnecessary fatalities. This concern resonates deeply with those on the frontlines of forecasting, as well as with individuals relying on their expertise,” they articulated.

Compared to many forecast offices nationwide, Texas offices are relatively well-staffed.

Fahy mentioned that the San Antonio/Austin weather office operates with 11 meteorologists, which is down six from the usual full staff of 26. Warnings issued in central Texas indicate that four positions remain vacant at the standard staff level of 23. The office has been without a weather officer for an extended period and lacks senior hydrologists as well.

“In San Angelo, we have no hydrologists, which poses a significant issue,” Fahy explained, noting that hydrologists are essential for analyzing stream flow and managing flood responses.

Mayor Dalton Rice of Kerrville stated that the city will investigate whether emergency notifications are adequate to alert residents effectively.

“We recognize that questions are being raised regarding emergency notifications, but it’s premature to speculate. Our local partners are dedicated to thoroughly reviewing the events and systems involved,” Rice stated at a press conference on Sunday. “In due time, we will take decisive measures to bolster our preparedness moving forward, ensuring the safety of all community members.”

An independent meteorologist, who has criticized NWS staffing and budget cuts previously, stated that federal meteorologists on-site provided timely warnings.

Alan Gerald, former director of analysis at NOAA’s National Intense Storm Institute, noted in a blog post that the Austin/San Antonio Forecast Office effectively communicated risks swiftly, despite experiencing leadership shortages.

“While it is less than ideal to have these positions vacant for extended periods, it can negatively affect operations on some level,” Gerald wrote. “However, based on the actual warning services provided by the NWS during the incident, they performed admirably, delivering the expected levels of warnings and alerts for events of this nature.”

Houston meteorologist Matt Lanza indicated there was no evidence suggesting that staffing issues or budget cuts contributed to the tragedy.  

Wisconsin meteorologist Vaguski noted the inherent difficulties in predicting flash floods and extreme rainfall.

“Quantitative precipitation forecasting, or QPF, is among the most challenging tasks for a meteorologist. It’s crucial to determine the right location, the right volume, and the right timing,” Vaguski elaborated. “They were issuing alerts because they understood the significance of the event.”

Vaguski explained that remnants of the tropical storm transferred to Texas brought tropical moisture that fueled severe thunderstorms, resulting in extreme rainfall across central Texas.

He also added that the predictors indicated increased concerns aligned with findings from weather models.

Texas Hill Country is often labeled “Flash Flood Alley” due to its terrain, which exacerbates river swelling rapidly. Understanding precise rainfall locations is key to predicting flood impacts.

“Forecasts for this week predicted 4-7 and even 5-9 inches of rain, with some models suggesting even higher amounts. Unfortunately, science has yet to evolve to the point where we can accurately predict rainfall to a precise latitude and longitude,” he added.

Predicting when the heaviest rainfall will occur and when flooding starts is particularly challenging for forecasters, Vaguski noted.

“Receiving severe weather alerts in the middle of the night presents significant challenges. Historically, most tornado and flood fatalities occur during this period when people are asleep. It’s difficult to detect tornadoes and rising water,” Vaguski expressed. “Did people activate emergency alerts on their devices?”

Addressing the reduction and cutbacks at the National Weather Service, Vaguski asserted that he doesn’t believe better staffing would have notably hindered the tragedy.

“These are crucial positions that need filling,” he remarked, adding, “but they likely did not significantly contribute to the incident.”

Vaguski indicated that substantial improvement is needed in quantitative precipitation forecasting to help forecasters identify threats earlier. However, such advancements are threatened by potential NOAA funding cuts, he cautioned.

“The major concern is if the latest budget proposal is approved by Congress as the administration wishes, it will shut down all NOAA research labs vital for enhancing predictions.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Judges Evaluate Legality of Trump Administration Cuts at the National Institutes of Health

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On Monday, a federal judge in Boston ruled that the termination of grants from the National Institutes of Health signals the end of efforts aimed at diversity-related research topics. Trump’s administration has claimed this decision was “invalid and illegal,” citing discrimination against racial minorities and the LGBTQ community.

US District Judge William Young stated in a non-judicial trial that the NIH breached federal law by capriciously canceling over $1 billion in research grants linked to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.

Judge Young indicated he is reinstating grants awarded to organizations that advocated for such initiatives in democratically led states. He also mentioned that as the case unfolds, more significant decisions might follow.

“This amounts to racism and discrimination against the American LGBTQ community,” remarked Young, a Republican appointee of President Ronald Reagan. “Government discrimination is profoundly wrong; I urge the court to prohibit it, and I will take action in due course.”

Discussing the end of grants for research addressing racial minority issues, Young expressed from the bench that he has “never witnessed such blatant racism” in his 40 years on the bench.

“You judge people of color based on their skin,” he stated concerning the Trump administration. “The Constitution does not permit that.”

The Department of Health and Human Services, representing the NIH and its parent organization, has not responded promptly to requests for statements.

Rachel Meelopol from the American Civil Liberties Union, who represents the grant recipients in the lawsuit, mentioned that Young’s ruling impacts hundreds of grants. The plaintiffs include the American Public Health Association and 16 states led by Massachusetts.

The NIH, the world’s premier funder of biomedical and behavioral research, has terminated approximately 2,100 research grants worth about $9.5 billion and an additional $2.6 billion in contracts since President Donald Trump took office in January. I signed on to protest the cuts last week.

These funding cuts reflect Trump’s broader agenda to reshape the government, reduce federal expenditures, and eliminate support for DEI programs and transgender healthcare. Another federal judge has temporarily blocked the administration’s plan to reduce 10,000 jobs across the NIH and other health agencies.

Trump has also enacted a series of executive orders mandating that institutions ensure grant funding does not support “gender ideology” and puts an end to what the administration deems “discriminatory” DEI programs. Conservative critics argue that these DEI initiatives unfairly target white individuals and others.

Aligned with Trump’s policy objectives, the NIH has directed staff to cease grant funding for research on DEI programs, issues facing transgender individuals, COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy, and funding beneficial to universities in China.

The trial presided over by Young on Monday focused on just a portion of the claims in the consolidated litigation regarding the funding cuts. He intends to consider additional claims later.

Young indicated he would allow political parties to present further evidence before making decisions regarding these claims and determine whether to restore grants beyond those allocated to the plaintiffs.

The cessation of NIH grants, coupled with delays in grant approvals and renewals, has reverberated across universities nationwide, many of which now face the loss of significant portions of their research budgets.

As a result, universities have initiated employment freezes, travel restrictions, reduced class sizes, furloughs, and layoffs.

Numerous universities depend on NIH grants for the majority of their research funding. For instance, Washington University, recognized as the top public institution for biomedical research, reported receiving roughly 1,220 grants from the NIH, totaling about $648 million last year, as per court documents.

Students and faculty at universities have expressed concerns that the funding confusion could lead to brain drain from the United States, as researchers increasingly seek positions abroad. This slowdown also threatens long-term research initiatives, including projects focused on banking and studying the brains of Alzheimer’s patients.

The Trump administration has aimed to reduce other critical research funding sources.

In February, US District Judge Angel Kelly halted regulations that severely restricted government payments for indirect research costs, including equipment, maintenance, utilities, and support staffing. The administration projected that this action would eliminate $4 billion in funding for research institutions.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Trump’s Budget Cuts to NASA and the National Science Foundation Will Yield Significant Outcomes

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Artemis I at Launchpad 39-B, Kennedy Space Center

Tribune Content Agency LLC/Aramie

In my view, the Stern-Gerlach experiment was a pivotal moment that introduced the findings of quantum mechanics to the scientific community. Proposed by Otto Stern and carried out by Walther Gerlach in 1922, this experiment demonstrated that atoms possess quantum properties. It revealed that electrons must adhere to quantum principles. The Stern-Gerlach experiments underscore the unusual aspects of the quantum realm, suggesting that observers seem to influence the properties that particles exhibit. Measuring the quantum characteristic known as spin appears to alter the possible spin values particles can possess subsequently. Essentially, the act of observation influences the future states of a particle.

In physics, we are conditioned to perceive ourselves as separate from the physical systems we study. This experiment challenges that separation. My experience shows that students often accept this premise as an undeniable truth. However, after contemplating it multiple times, they find it at odds with their intuitive understanding of reality. Coming to terms with these outcomes is a surreal journey—wonderful and extraordinary.

When I reflect on how to articulate witnessing the decline of American science in real-time, “surreal” is the best descriptor. It does not resemble the surrealism of the Stern-Gerlach experiment; instead, it feels like a reawakening to a tangible reality. I recognize that I once harbored an illusion about the world, but the emerging reality is intriguing and exhilarating.

Our current political climate resembles a reckoning with a previously held false sense of security. It seems that although the US government might support science today, there won’t be a transformative reality waiting for us tomorrow. Instead, the government continues to squander taxpayer-funded culture, casting it into oblivion. This metaphor carries weight: when an object crosses a black hole’s event horizon, it reaches a point of no return. The object is lost forever.

We find ourselves in a similar predicament. The universe remains to be explored, but the impairments to our research capabilities are enduring, altering the trajectory permanently. The number of master’s and doctoral programs has already diminished the availability of opportunities. Aspiring professors are not receiving the same level of training, which will affect not only future scientists but also science communicators.

The US government discards publicly funded culture, casting it into voids of neglect.

The entirety of our future appears discarded. While Donald Trump has suggested cuts to NASA’s astrophysics budget and the National Science Foundation’s physics funding, these reductions in mathematics and astronomy will not prevent global hindrances to science, and will lead to far-reaching repercussions. The US plays a crucial role as a global investor in particle physics, cosmology, and investigations into fundamental truths.

While attending the 2025 Natural Philosophy Symposium at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland, we were alerted to devastating budget cuts to NASA’s funding. The event started with an engaging talk by philosopher and cognitive scientist David Chalmers, followed by insights from philosopher Sandra Mitchell on human reasoning, and a discussion with theoretical physicist Nima Arkani-Hamed.

We discussed questions that have captivated humanity for millennia. What is reality, and how can one engage in researching that reality? Such events emphasize the potential outcomes when provided with the necessary time, space, and resources to explore ideas.

During this gathering, NASA’s Astrophysics department appeared to be on the brink of obliteration. The repercussions of this shift will echo for decades. In 1922, Germany stood at the forefront of scientific understanding. However, after the Nazis subverted German science for their propaganda, the field never fully recovered.

This narrative may seem like a dramatic tale about a specific group of individuals. Yet, it’s essential to remember that these discussions lead to real publications. I benefited from Government Pell Grants for economically disadvantaged undergraduates and the National Science Foundation’s Graduate Research Fellowship. The research discussed in this article has been financed through several federal agencies.

This disconcerting moment affects not only scientists in the US but resonates worldwide. Much of the science we engage with originates from American institutions, making this issue pertinent to all of us.

Chanda’s Week

What I’m reading

I’m currently delving into Ricky Fein’s intriguing debut novel. The devil has three times.

What I’m watching

I’ve enjoyed Mission: Impossible, and I’ve seen all of the films at least once in the past two weeks.

What I’m working on

I’ve drafted my third book, The Universe is a Black Aesthetic (Coming soon from Duke University Press).

Chanda Prescod-Weinstein serves as an associate professor of physics and astronomy, as well as a core faculty member of women’s studies at the University of New Hampshire. Her latest book is The Disturbed Cosmos: A Journey to Dark Matter, Space, and Dreams.

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Working Groups Warning of Fever Deaths Establish Signs About Doge in National Parks

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The early season heatwaves scorched much of the West, resulting in dangerously high temperatures and prompting extreme heat warnings lasting from Friday through Saturday. Southern Nevada saw widespread triple-digit highs, with Death Valley expected to surpass 115 degrees.

Weeks ahead of the official start of summer, we intensified the union message. The organization’s signage campaign aims to address the far-reaching effects of Doge layoffs and budget cuts on the nation’s beloved national parks. In the Southwest, this translates to zero tolerance for extreme heat, according to Shaquille.

“We had to adapt our message to connect with people directly,” he stated.

Results from the National Park Service’s budget cuts are still pending, especially with the peak summer tourist season on the horizon.

Abigail Wine, deputy director of Death Valley National Park, mentioned that park staff are committed to ensuring public safety and raising awareness about the hazards of extreme heat. She urged visitors to take necessary precautions before heading to Death Valley, such as checking weather warnings, verifying closures, and packing adequate water, sunscreen, and other essentials.

“As always, the National Park Service is dedicated to providing visitors with an incredible, safe, and unforgettable experience at Death Valley National Park and throughout the country,” Wines informed NBC News in a statement.

The broader objective of achieving a more perfect union in the Billboard campaign is to spotlight Doge’s controversial actions and the significant cuts instituted by the Trump administration to federal agencies. Shaquille noted that the organization strategically leveraged the bipartisan support enjoyed by national parks to ignite discussion.

According to a 2024 Population Survey from Pew Research Center, the National Park Service ranks as the most favored federal agency, with a favorable rating of 76% among over 9,400 Americans surveyed.

“Many of the locations where we placed our signs are in areas assumed to lean Republican, where a significant number of people likely voted for Donald Trump. Even the Doge component resonates,” Shaquille explained. “But national parks serve as a perfect example of where the limits were overstepped.”

Source: www.nbcnews.com

California Democrats Urge Return of National Weather Service Staff

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California House Democrats have urged the National Weather Service (NWS) to reinstate terminated employees and initiate the hiring of new forecasters, following the suspension of 24-hour operations for weather predictions in Sacramento and Hanford.

In a letter addressed to deputy administrators of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Howard Luttonick and Commerce Secretary Laura Grimm, 23 Congressional Democrats criticized recent reductions in weather services, warning that it signals the onset of a public safety crisis with serious implications. The Weather Services division falls under NOAA, which is managed by the Department of Commerce.

“We demand the immediate reinstatement of all workers who have been terminated in these offices, the lifting of the federal employment freeze at NWS, and the establishment of adequate staffing at the Sacramento and Hanford weather forecasting offices to maintain their 24/7 operations,” the council members stated.

Since January, over 500 staff members from the Weather Bureau have departed the agency due to widespread layoffs initiated by the Trump administration, targeting many probationary positions. As a result, approximately 43% of the nation’s 122 weather offices are operating with staffing levels exceeding 20%. Independent meteorologists caution that these cuts may lead to delays in weather predictions and warnings, raising public safety concerns that have pressured the administration.

Legislators from California noted that the weather forecasting offices in Hanford and Sacramento were particularly hard hit, compromising their ability to provide continuous staffing around the clock.

“Currently, the Sacramento office has seven vacant meteorologist positions out of 16, while the Hanford office is short eight out of 13. Both offices are functioning at half their capacity as they approach the peak of wildfire season,” the letter states. “If the NWS Weather Forecast Offices in Sacramento and Hanford cannot monitor overnight conditions across the entire Central Valley, it jeopardizes the safety of our residents.”

The Weather Bureau typically provides meteorologists to assist firefighters during the wildfire season.

“This is an imprudent and unwarranted risk that does not serve the American public,” the letter declared. “Halving the staffing levels in offices responsible for forecasting wildfires, atmospheric rivers, and natural disasters endangers lives and undermines government efficiency.”

NOAA communications director Kim Doster reaffirmed that the NWS is dedicated to prioritizing public safety.

“The National Weather Service continues to fulfill its core mission amidst recent restructuring and is taking measures to prioritize critical research and services necessary for keeping American citizens safe and informed,” Doster stated in an email.

The Hanford office of the Weather Bureau is situated in the San Joaquin Valley, not far from the site of the longstanding Lake Tulare reconstruction in 2023.

The Central Valley region is responsible for producing 40% of the country’s fruits and nuts, according to the US Geological Survey. Farmers in the Central Valley depend on accurate forecasts for making informed decisions about planting, irrigation, and harvesting.

In the meantime, Sacramento forecasters are predicting extreme heat and a heightened risk of wildfires this weekend, indicating an early onset of the wildfire season.

Representative Jim Costa, who represents parts of the San Joaquin Valley and has received forecasts from the Hanford office, facilitated a letter to NOAA. Other notable signatories include Councillors Nancy Pelosi, Eric Swalwell, and Doris Matsui, amongst the 22 others.

Pressure has been mounting for months, calling for reductions in weather services.

One external meteorologist reported that weather balloon launches have been curtailed to about 12 understaffed offices, noting that missed balloon releases hinder better understanding of tornado risks during thunderstorm events near Omaha, Nebraska.

Following this incident, Nebraska Representative Mike Flood intervened with the administration and obtained additional forecasters temporarily assigned to an office near Omaha.

Earlier this month, five former directors of the Weather Bureau cautioned that further staffing cuts could lead to unnecessary fatalities.

“Our greatest fear is that the weather offices are severely understaffed, resulting in unnecessary loss of life,” wrote a former superintendent who served from 1988 to 2022.

NOAA has attempted to address the staffing shortage by temporarily reallocating personnel to fill gaps in the workforce and exploring more permanent reallocations within the agency.

Approximately two weeks ago, NOAA considered transferring 76 meteorologists and a total of 155 staff members to play a vital role.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

National Weather Service Issues Warning: Radio Interruptions Expected as Thunderstorms Approach Alabama

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A significant storm is forecasted to impact Alabama this week, as the National Weather Service has halted radio services that deliver vital weather updates for the area.

The Birmingham NWS office announced it will conduct “mandatory scheduled updates” to the advanced weather interactive processing system, which is essential for displaying and integrating weather and water information and disseminating critical alerts like weather and water warnings to the public.

These updates are set to take place from May 19th to May 21st. During this period, the Birmingham office will manage the NOAA weather radio transmitter. The NWS states.

Despite the software updates, the NWS assures that weather forecasts, advisories, clocks, and warnings will still be available. However, radio outages are expected to affect transmitters in northern and central Alabama, including areas like Winfield, Wannta, Birmingham, Aniston, Tuscaloosa, Demopolis, Selma, Montgomery, Auburn, and Texasville.

The NWS did not provide immediate comments, but the agency stated online that the Birmingham forecast office will remain operational while the software updates proceed. Additionally, forecasting duties will also be carried out at the backup office in Peachtree City, Georgia.

NOAA Weather Radio forms a nationwide network of stations that relay official forecasts, weather alerts, and other information from the National Weather Service. This continuous service covers warnings about various threats, including earthquakes, avalanches, oil spills, and public safety announcements.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which supervises the National Weather Service, indicated that NOAA weather radio stations nationwide will undergo necessary updates on a rolling basis for two to three days leading up to June.

“The NWS Local Office intends to inform listeners both on-air and through the website when updates are scheduled,” agency officials noted. According to the NOAA Weather Radio website.

Alabama is among several states facing the threat of severe storms this week, with thunderstorms on Tuesday predicted to produce damaging hail and tornadoes, with wind gusts reaching 60 mph across northwest and central Alabama.

This week’s radio service disruption aligns with Alabama’s severe weather forecast, but it is not the only state bracing for harsh conditions.

An estimated 31 million people are susceptible to severe storms on Monday, stretching from northern Texas to Iowa. Potential hazards include strong winds, large hail, and tornadoes from Monday afternoon into the evening.

On Tuesday, the severe storm outlook will slightly shift, affecting areas from northern Louisiana to Indiana, with risks of large hail, winds, and strong tornadoes re-emerging.

In the meantime, a heat wave has driven temperatures into the late 90s in parts of Texas and Florida, reaching triple digits earlier this week.

These alerts follow a weekend of violent storms, leading to reports of tornadoes in at least 10 states, including Texas, Kansas, Missouri, and Kentucky, with a confirmed toll of at least 28 weather-related fatalities.

This deadly storm arrives as NOAA strives to fill critical forecasting positions nationwide following significant budget cuts to the National Weather Service during the Trump administration. Critics warn that the current staffing shortages in the NWS could pose a serious public safety risk, particularly with hurricane season on the horizon, increasing wildfire threats, and persisting extreme heat this summer.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

NOAA Speeds Up Hiring for Forecast Positions Following National Weather Service Cuts

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As some weather forecast offices discontinue overnight staffing, the National Weather Service is swiftly reassigning personnel internally, working to fill over 150 vacancies and address critical staffing gaps.

On Tuesday, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration considered initiating a “reallocation period” to fill key positions that have remained unstaffed since the Trump administration’s decisions to dismiss probationary employees and incentivize veteran federal workers to retire early within the National Weather Service (NWS).

The agency is actively recruiting to fill five pivotal meteorologist roles overseeing field offices, including locations in Lake Charles, Louisiana; Houston, Texas; and Wilmington, Ohio.

Meanwhile, at least eight out of 122 weather forecasting offices nationwide—including those in Sacramento, California; Goodland, Kansas; and Jackson, Kentucky—have announced no plans to operate overnight or reduce overnight services in the coming six weeks, according to Tom Fahy, legislative director of the National Weather Service Employees Organization, which monitors staffing levels for the agency.

Critics of the recent cuts argue that the efforts to reassign meteorologists and other staff indicate severe reductions in services, negatively impacting vital public safety operations.

“This has never occurred before. We have always been an agency dedicated to providing 24/7 service to American citizens,” Fahy stated. “The potential risk is extremely high. If these cuts continue within the National Weather Service, lives could be lost.”

The National Weather Service acknowledged adjustments to its service levels and staffing but asserted that it continues to fulfill its mission and maintain the accuracy of forecasts.

“NOAA and NWS are dedicated to minimizing the impact of recent staffing changes to ensure that core mission functions persist,” the agency stated. “These efforts encompass temporary modifications to service levels and both temporary and permanent internal reallocations of meteorologists to offices with urgent needs.”

Fahy revealed that 52 of the nation’s 122 weather forecasting offices currently have staffing vacancy rates exceeding 20%.

The latest update on field office leadership, published on Wednesday, highlighted vacancy challenges, with 35 meteorologist positions at forecast offices remaining unfilled.

Since the new administration assumed power, the National Weather Service has reduced its workforce by more than 500 employees through voluntary early retirement packages for senior staff and the dismissal of probationary hires.

“Our greatest fear is that the weather offices will remain extremely understaffed, prompting unnecessary loss of life,” the director expressed earlier this month.

Recently retired NWS employees have voiced concerns that staffing levels have dropped below critical thresholds amid service freezes and the dismissal of many early-career professionals in probationary roles.

Alan Gerald, a former director at NOAA’s National Intensive Storm Institute who accepted early retirement in March, likened the NWS’s reassignment strategies to “deck chair relocation,” arguing that they fail to solve fundamental issues.

“They are merely shifting personnel from one office to another, which might address short-term crises, but that’s no sustainable solution,” Gerald remarked. “There’s no real influx of new staff.”

Brian Lamare, who recently retired from the Tampa Bay Area Weather Office in Florida, understands the desire to modernize and streamline services.

In fact, Lamare was involved in efforts to reorganize certain aspects of the service prior to the Trump administration.

The agency had plans to modernize its staffing structures by launching a “mutual assistance” system, allowing local forecast offices to request and offer aid during severe weather events or periods of understaffing.

“Many of these initiatives are now being expedited due to urgency,” Lamare commented. “When rearranging your living room furniture, you don’t set the house on fire—that’s the situation we are facing.”

Lamarre emphasized the necessity for the NWS to resume hiring as numerous forecasters in their 50s and 60s opted for voluntary retirement, leading to the loss of extensive experience. Concurrently, the agency has reduced its cohort of probationary employees, many of whom are just starting their careers.

“Eliminating probationary positions severely limits the agency’s future potential,” Lamare stated. “That’s where fresh, innovative talent is cultivated, making recruitment essential.”

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Former National Weather Service Director Speaks Out Against Proposed Cuts

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Five former directors of the National Weather Service have expressed serious concerns that further staffing reductions within the agency could result in unnecessary fatalities during extreme weather events such as tornadoes, wildfires, and hurricanes.

“Our greatest fear is that with the weather offices being severely understaffed, lives that could have been saved will sadly be lost. This is a shared nightmare among those at the forefront of forecasting and the communities who depend on their expertise,” they stated. An open letter was published on Friday.

The former director, who served from 1988 to 2022, noted that staffing levels at the Weather Service decreased by over 10% during critical forecasting periods due to budget cuts from the Trump administration and staffing reductions from agency consolidations.

They also voiced concerns regarding the budget proposal from the Trump administration for the upcoming fiscal year, highlighting an outlined Letter to Congress that recommended a $1.52 billion reduction for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which oversees the Meteorological Service.

“The NWS workforce is facing intolerable challenges to maintain current service standards,” they remarked. “Some forecast offices are inadequately staffed and may have to resort to limited part-time services.”

Curious about how NWS staffing cuts could lead meteorologists to miss tornado detections? Tune in to Harry Jackson’s report on NBC News Now, airing today at 5pm EST.

Their objections, along with NOAA’s stance on funding cuts at the Weather Bureau, underline the political pressures agencies face as governments aim to downsize. Meteorologists have indicated that reduced staffing has resulted in less effective forecasting.

The letter shared with journalists by a spokesperson and circulated on social media was co-signed by directors from the Elephant Bureau, including Louis Uckellini, Jack Hayes, and Brig Gen. DL Johnson of the US Air Force, alongside Brig. Gen. John J. Kelly Jr. and Colonel Joe from the US Air Force.

Louis Uccelini at a press briefing in Maryland in 2016.
Alex Wong/Getty Images

They remarked: “Having served as a director of the National Weather Service, I understand firsthand the requirements for delivering accurate forecasts. I stand united against further staffing and resource cuts in the NWS and am deeply worried about NOAA’s long-term health.”

In a statement, the weather service indicated it would refrain from discussing internal personnel matters but acknowledged the ongoing staffing challenges.

“We remain committed to providing weather information, forecasts, and warnings in line with our public safety mission,” the statement read. “The National Weather Service is adjusting some services by implementing temporary staffing changes at local forecast offices nationwide to better meet the needs of our citizens, partners, and stakeholders.”

The White House did not respond to requests for comment.

Recent forecasts for Nebraska amid inclement weather have heightened concerns regarding staffing cuts and prompted calls for Congressional Republicans to take action.

On April 17, as thunderstorms loomed over Iowa and Nebraska, the Valley, Nebraska forecast office near Omaha attempted to launch a special weather balloon at 3 PM to evaluate storm risks, but staffing reductions halted the planned 7 PM launch.

The Valley office was among more than 10 locations where weather services announced the cancellation of balloon launches due to insufficient staffing.

An internal meteorologist noted that a timely balloon launch at 7 PM could have significantly aided in identifying tornado risks sooner. The storm, which posed a threat to the data from the 3 PM balloon, ultimately spawned six tornadoes across eastern Nebraska.

Following the storm, Rep. Mike Flood (R-Neb.) took action to address the situation. During a press conference on April 25, documented by Wowt—a local NBC station in Omaha—he revealed that staffing in the Valley office had decreased from 13 forecasters to just eight.

After bringing this issue to light, Flood reported receiving a call from the White House acknowledging that changes were indeed necessary. Shortly thereafter, the Weather Bureau dispatched two forecasters for temporary assignments to the Valley office.

“We have implemented policy adjustments throughout the country. These temporary assignments can now be utilized by forecasters to address staffing shortages at various weather stations,” Flood mentioned, adding that these measures would become permanent, allowing the Weather Bureau to hire additional staff.

He expressed intentions to propose legislation classifying forecasters as public safety officials, a designation likely to exempt them from federal procurement and staffing cut policies.

“They are undeniably public safety personnel, and it is imperative we act on this in Congress,” Flood declared.

Rick Spinrad, former NOAA administrator for President Joe Biden, pointed out that the Weather Service should not be viewed as a target for budget cuts.

“Weather services cost every American just a cent per day,” Spinrad stated.

The staffing reductions have implications extending beyond just weather balloon launches. Last month, the Weather Services office in Sacramento, California, informed local media partners of its decision to cut overnight staffing and cease responding to public inquiries.

On Friday, one former manager expressed concern that further cuts might exacerbate stress levels in overnight staffing.

“The worst-case scenario is if a severe storm develops after midnight,” he cautioned, adding that decisions made overnight by the Weather Bureau and local emergency teams could be critical for issuing tornado warnings. “There are now significant gaps in the entire weather service, which is a troubling reality.”

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Trump Administration Rejects Author of the National Climate Assessment

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The Trump administration has dismissed numerous scientists and experts who were working on the federal government’s key report regarding the impacts of global warming on the nation.

This decision, which is obligatory in Congress, poses significant risks to the future of the National Climate Assessment, according to experts.

Since 2000, the federal government has released an in-depth report every few years detailing how rising temperatures influence human health, agriculture, fisheries, water resources, transportation, energy generation, and various aspects of the U.S. economy. The latest climate assessment was published in 2023. This report is utilized not only by state and local authorities but also by private enterprises, assisting in preparations for extreme weather events, floods, droughts, and other climate-related challenges.

On Monday, researchers nationwide began the preparation for the sixth National Climate Assessment, scheduled for early 2028, only to receive an email indicating that the report’s scope is “currently under review” and all contributors have been dismissed.

“We are now liberating all existing assessment contributors from their roles,” the email stated. “As the evaluation plan progresses, there may be future chances for contribution or involvement. Thank you for your service.”

For some authors, this felt like a devastating setback for the next report.

“This could signal the end of the assessment,” remarked Jesse Keenan, a professor at Tulane University specializing in climate adaptation and a co-author of the previous climate assessment. “If we eliminate all involved, there will be no advancement.”

The White House has not yet responded to requests for comments.

Climate assessments are generally compiled by volunteer scientists and expert contributors from across the nation. The process involves multiple reviews by 14 federal agencies and a public comment period. Oversight is provided by the Global Change Research Program, a federal entity established by Congress in 1990, with support from NASA.

During the Trump administration, this process faced significant upheaval. Recently, NASA terminated its major partnership with ICF International, a consulting firm that supplied much of the technical support and staffing for the Global Change Research Program, which coordinates the contributions from numerous sources.

President Trump has consistently downplayed the risks associated with global warming. Russell Vert, the current head of the Office of Management and Budget, noted in a pre-election document that the next president should “reorganize” the global change research program, as scientific reports on climate change were often utilized in environmental litigation that restricted federal actions.

Vought advocated for the separation of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the agency responsible for the government’s largest climate research unit, termed the “climate warning.”

During Trump’s first term, the administration made efforts to undermine the national climate assessment. When the 2018 report was released, which found that global warming posed an imminent and catastrophic threat, the administration published it the day after Thanksgiving to lessen its impact.

In February, scientists submitted a comprehensive summary of the upcoming assessment to the White House for initial review; however, that review has been halted, and the agency’s comment period has been delayed.

It remains uncertain what will happen next with the assessment, which is still mandated by Congress. Some scientists worry that the administration may attempt to draft an entirely new report from scratch, potentially downplaying the dangers of rising temperatures and contradicting established climate science.

“These are the most effective strategies to assist us,” said Mead Crosby, a senior scientist in the Climate Impact Group at the University of Washington, who has contributed to the assessment. “The real question is whether it accurately reflects reliable science and has a tangible impact on our community in preparing for climate change.”

Scientists previously involved in climate assessments assert that the report is crucial for understanding the effects of climate change on daily life in the United States.

Catherine Hayho, a climate scientist at Texas Tech, stated this month, “we are considering that global issue and making it more relevant to us.” “If you care about food, water, transportation, insurance, or health, this is what climate change signifies for residents in the Southwest or the Great Plains. That’s the importance.”

Numerous state and local policymakers, along with private companies, depend on these assessments to comprehend how climate change impacts various regions of the United States and how they can adapt accordingly.

While the scientific understanding of climate change and its repercussions has not dramatically shifted since the last assessment in 2023, Dr. Keenan from Tulane noted that research is continuously advancing regarding what communities can do to mitigate rising sea levels and other issues exacerbated by increasing temperatures.

Scientists indicated that decision-makers responsible for the final assessment would likely rely on outdated information regarding effective adaptations and mitigation measures.

“We risk losing our fundamental report, which is intended to communicate the dangers of climate change and propose advancements,” stated Dustin Mulbany, an environmental studies professor and author at San Jose State University. “That would be quite devastating.”

Source: www.nytimes.com

Funding for national climate assessment to be reduced

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The Trump administration has slashed funding and staff for a program overseeing the primary federal report on the impacts of global warming on the country, leading to concerns among scientists about the future of assessments.

Congress mandates the National Climate Assessment every four years, examining the effects of rising temperatures on various sectors of the US economy. The most recent report was published in 2023 and is being utilized by state and city governments and private companies to prepare for climate change.

The Global Change Research Program, established by Congress in 1990 and supported by NASA, coordinates efforts among 14 federal agencies, the Smithsonian agency, and external scientists to produce these reports.

NASA recently issued stopwork orders for consulting firms ICF International, which provided crucial technical support and staff for the Global Change Research Program. The cancellation of this support has raised uncertainty about the future of the assessment.

Scientists are unsure how the assessment can proceed without ICF’s support, as they have played a significant role in previous assessments.

In response, NASA is working to rationalize contracts and improve efficiency in supporting Congress-mandated programs. The cancellation of the ICF contract was first reported by Politico.

The next national climate assessment, scheduled for 2027 or 2028, may face challenges following these developments, with many climate scientists already expressing concerns about its future.

During Trump’s first term, the administration attempted to undermine the nation’s climate assessment, releasing the 2018 report on the day after Thanksgiving to minimize its impact.

Climate assessments involve scientists nationwide who volunteer to write reports, which then undergo reviews by federal agencies. The delay in the review process for the upcoming assessment has raised concerns among scientists.

Federal involvement in the assessment adds significant value, according to experts, as it ensures a comprehensive review by all federal agencies and the public.

The National Climate Assessment is crucial for understanding how climate change impacts everyday life in the United States, bringing the global issue closer to home.

Climate scientists emphasize the importance of the assessment in highlighting the effects of climate change on various aspects of daily life.

Source: www.nytimes.com

US national security at risk as Trump administration fails to effectively address Russia’s cyber threat

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The Trump administration has publicly stated that Russia is not considered a cyber threat to US national security or critical infrastructure, marking a significant departure from previous assessments.

Experts warn that this policy shift could leave the US vulnerable to Russian hacking attacks and may signal warming relations between President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Recent incidents indicate that the US no longer views Russia as a cybersecurity threat.

Liesyl Franz, the State Department’s deputy director of international cybersecurity, did not mention Russia as a threat in her recent speech before the UN Working Group on Cybersecurity. This contrasts with statements from European Union and UK officials who highlighted the threat posed by Moscow.

US policy changes regarding cybersecurity have been made behind closed doors, with new directives focusing on China and neglecting to mention Russia.

Anonymous sources familiar with the matter have expressed concern that the US is ignoring the Russian cyber threat, which was previously a primary focus for agencies like the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA).

Reports indicate that CISA officials have been reassigned, raising questions about the US government’s approach to protecting against cyber threats from Russia.

The New York Times reported that CISA officials tasked with safeguarding elections from cyberattacks have also been reassigned.

Concerns have been raised about the shift in US policy towards Russia, as many believe that Russia remains a significant cyber threat to US interests.

The CISA and State Department have not provided comments on these developments.

The change in US policy regarding Russia’s cyber threat is seen as a departure from previous assessments and has raised concerns among experts.

For over a quarter-century, Putin’s Russia has been active in cyberattacks and disinformation campaigns, posing a challenge to the international order.

If you have any tips about this story, you can reach out to us at +1 646 886 8761 on Signal

Source: www.theguardian.com

Australia Bans DeepSeek Device Due to National Security Concerns

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DeepSeek has been banned from all federal equipment in order to crack down on Chinese AI chatbots due to an unspecified national security risk.

Last week, DeepSeek’s AI Generative Chatbot was released, causing concern in US high-tech circles regarding censorship and data security.

The Ministry of Home Affairs issued an order on Tuesday prohibiting the use of the program on all federal government systems and national security devices based on intelligence agency advice.


The Minister of the Interior emphasized that the decision was based on protecting the government and its assets, not influenced by China as a country of origin.

Bark stated, “The Albanese government is taking swift and decisive actions to safeguard Australia’s national security and interests.”

He added, “AI presents potential and opportunities, but the government will not hesitate to act if national security risks are identified.”

It is advised that governments and organizations promptly report and remove the app from their devices to prevent reinstallation.

This decision comes nearly two years after the Albanese government banned the Chinese social media app TikTok across government devices citing security and privacy risks.

In January, Minister of Science Ed Hepsick anticipated a similar debate surrounding DeepSeek.

He stated, “I believe there will be parallels drawn naturally. There is a resemblance to the discussions seen around TikTok with regard to DeepSeek.”

Australia joins Taiwan, Italy, and some US states in blocking and banning apps on government devices.

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This week, the New South Wales state government has banned the application. Other state governments are also considering similar actions.

An analysis by Guardian Australia in January revealed that chatbots like DeepSeek have avoided discussing specific political events in the Chinese government.

In contrast to other models, DeepSeek did not engage in conversations about topics such as Tiananmen Square and The Umbrella Revolution when asked.

Immediately after its release in January, DeepSeek became popular in the global app store, causing a significant drop in a major US Tech Index.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Biden Campaign’s Decision to Join TikTok Sparks National Security Concerns

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The chairman of the U.S. Senate Intelligence Committee, a ranking Democrat, said he is concerned about President Joe Biden’s campaign’s decision to join TikTok.

On Sunday, Biden’s re-election campaign used the Super Bowl to launch a new TikTok account to reach younger voters ahead of November’s presidential election.

The launch of the campaign on TikTok is notable given that the app, owned by Chinese tech company ByteDance, is under review in the United States due to potential national security concerns. Some U.S. lawmakers have called for the app to be banned over concerns that the Chinese government could access user data and influence what people see on the app.


On Monday, Democratic Sen. Mark Warner said he was concerned about the national security implications.

“I think we still need to find a way to follow India, which banned TikTok,” Warner said. “I’m a little worried about the mixed messages.”

Many Republicans have also criticized the campaign’s decision to join TikTok.

White House Press Secretary John Kirby said nothing has changed regarding “national security concerns” regarding the use of TikTok on government devices. That policy continues today. “

Last year, the Biden administration ordered government agencies to remove TikTok from federally owned phones and devices.

TikTok insists it does not share U.S. user data with the Chinese government and has taken substantial steps to protect user privacy. The company did not respond to Reuters’ request for comment.

The Biden campaign said in a statement that it will “continue to meet voters where they are,” including on other social media apps such as Meta’s Instagram and Truth Social, founded by former President Donald Trump.

The campaign has “advanced security measures” in place for its devices and its presence on TikTok is separate from the app’s ongoing security review, campaign officials added.

In March 2023, the U.S. Treasury Department-led Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) demanded that TikTok’s Chinese owners sell their shares or face the app being banned, but the administration No action was taken.

White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said Monday that a review by CFIUS is underway, filed by Warner and others to give the government new tools to combat threats posed by foreign-owned apps. He noted previous White House support for the bill.

Last month, TikTok told Congress that 170 million Americans now use the short video platform, up from 150 million the year before.

Reuters contributed to this report

Source: www.theguardian.com

National Amusements, owner of CBS and Paramount, alleges they were the victims of a cyber attack

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National Amusements, the movie theater chain and parent company of media giants Paramount and CBS, acknowledged that it had experienced a data breach in which hackers stole the personal information of tens of thousands of people.

The private media conglomerate said: Legally required filings with the Maine Attorney General Hackers allegedly stole the personal information of 82,128 people in a data breach in December 2022.

Details of the December 2022 breach were finally revealed a year after the company began notifying those affected last week.

The company discovered the breach several months later, in August 2023, according to Mayne’s notice, but did not specify what personal information was stolen. The hackers also stole financial information, such as bank account numbers and credit card numbers, in combination with associated security codes, passwords and confidential information, according to a data breach notification filed in the state of Maine.

The data breach notification was submitted by the company’s human resources director, so the stolen data may relate to the company’s employees.

But the media giant has said little else about the breach or whether the personal information of its customers and users is also affected. It is not clear what type of cyberattack the company suffered, or if it received a ransom demand or subsequently paid the hackers.

National Amusement spokeswoman Rachel Luray did not respond to a request for comment Tuesday. Spokespeople for CBS and Paramount also had no comment.

National Amusements owns more than 1,500 movie theaters across the United States, but the company is best known for its control of Paramount and CBS following the Viacom-CBS merger in 2019.

Paramount disclosed another security incident in August, according to Filings with Massachusetts Attorney General, an incident in which a hacker stole the personal information of an unspecified number of customers. The hackers also stole Paramount customers’ names and dates of birth, as well as Social Security numbers and other government-issued identification numbers, according to the notice.

Disclosure: Zack Whitaker worked at CBS before August 2018.

Source: techcrunch.com

National Laboratory Simulates Core Deflection of Armageddon-Type Asteroid

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Last year’s successful double asteroid redirection experiment, which involved firing a satellite bomb into an asteroid, has been followed by a detailed simulation of a nuclear deflection scenario, similar to the plot of the 1998 space disaster movie Armageddon.

Researchers at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, led by Mary Varkey, have published a paper advancing the active field of research on planetary defense against asteroid threats. They propose that detonating a nuclear explosive device as close as possible to an incoming asteroid may be the best strategy, considering that using satellites as missiles is not always practical.

The challenge, however, lies in precisely deflecting the asteroid’s nucleus to avoid potential impact with Earth, as depicted in the movie Armageddon, or the widespread destruction scenario depicted in the film Deep Impact.

In their paper published in the Planetary Science Journal, Burkey et al. explain the complexities involved in simulating the energy storage and the interaction of X-rays from a nuclear explosion with the asteroid’s surface, emphasizing the high computational cost and the need to break down the problem into stages for accurate modeling.

The team’s efforts have resulted in a comprehensive simulation of the nuclear deflection scenario, offering insight into the potential outcomes of such an event. The team also highlights the need for faster simulations, potentially utilizing machine learning to optimize response times for specific threats.

Image credits: Varkey et al.

By simulating the nuclear deflection scenario, the team aims to further advance the understanding of potential strategies for planetary defense against asteroid threats and minimize response times for future events.

Source: techcrunch.com