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The Trump administration has cut approximately 800 jobs at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), with more layoffs expected, potentially exceeding 1,000 by the end of the week.
The cuts affect various NOAA divisions, including weather forecasting, climate monitoring, and ocean research. Many probationary employees—those with less than a year on the job—were dismissed Thursday, though critical roles in severe weather forecasting may have been exempt.
The National Weather Service Employees Organization is assisting affected workers, some of whom are considering legal action. Sources report that the firings were conducted with minimal documentation, spreading largely by word of mouth.
Termination letters cited employees' skills not fitting the agency’s needs. Similar language was used in previous federal layoffs, despite some workers having strong job performance.
Impact on Weather and Climate Research
The layoffs come as NOAA struggles with understaffing while extreme weather events become more frequent. Critics argue the cuts will weaken hurricane, tornado, and climate forecasting.
Departments affected include the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center and the Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory. As NOAA downsizes, concerns grow over its ability to track severe weather and protect communities.