NOAA Pushes to Fill Weather Forecasting Gaps as Staffing Crisis Collides with Hurricane Season

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) announced plans to hire for key field positions, despite a federal hiring freeze, in response to widespread staffing shortages at the National Weather Service (NWS). These shortages come just as forecasters predict a particularly active hurricane season, prompting renewed concerns from scientists and weather experts about the nation’s preparedness for extreme weather.

Earlier this year, cuts to NOAA and the NWS—reportedly tied to broader federal government efficiency measures—led to the firing of hundreds of forecasters and the downgrading of other roles. By April, nearly half of NWS forecast offices were operating with vacancy rates of 20% or more. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has also been impacted, further stretching disaster response capabilities.

NOAA’s announcement includes plans to reassign staff, hire temporarily, and post positions under an exception to the hiring pause. The agency did not specify how many jobs would be filled. The staffing strain has already affected weather office operations, with some cutting overnight shifts, leaving critical coverage gaps.

Experts warn that reduced forecasting capabilities during a time of increasing weather volatility—driven in part by climate change—could endanger lives and disrupt local economies. As hurricanes, tornadoes, and other climate-driven events intensify, accurate and timely forecasts become essential for public safety and disaster mitigation.