The Trump administration is contemplating the termination of leases for properties housing crucial weather service operations and fisheries operations, as per insights from former National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) officials and a current contractor. These terminations could include a key weather forecasting center in College Park, Maryland, impacting around 12,000 NOAA staff involved in various issues such as climate change and managing commercial fisheries. The agency’s decision to end at least four expert advisory committees has raised concerns among employees, with fears that closures could hinder the agency’s ability to provide accurate forecasts and protect lives and property. The potential closure of the Maryland weather forecasting facility is particularly troubling as it could impede the agency’s ability to distribute critical weather information nationwide.

The recent layoffs at NOAA, including at least 800 workers, are part of broader government-wide layoffs directed by the Trump administration to reduce the federal government’s size. These terminations have affected National Weather Service staff responsible for generating essential weather forecasts relied upon by millions of Americans. The administration’s memo to federal agencies to prepare for staff reductions has sparked criticism for its impact on key public services like weather forecasts and wildlife management. The cuts at NOAA offices across the country have raised concerns about compromising the agency’s progress, especially in improving hurricane forecasts and protecting marine life, as highlighted by recent layoffs in Virginia and Seattle. NOAA employees, including award-winning specialists like Hanna Miller, have expressed dismay over losing their jobs and the potential consequences for environmental protection efforts.