In a drastic move, the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has fired hundreds of weather forecasters and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) employees on probationary status, causing outrage among lawmakers and weather experts. The layoffs, which targeted crucial meteorologists responsible for local forecasts in National Weather Service offices nationwide, have raised concerns about the impact on public safety and disaster response.

The firings, totaling around 1,300 employees across two rounds of cuts, represent approximately 10% of NOAA’s workforce. These actions are part of broader efforts by billionaire Elon Musk’s department to reduce what President Donald Trump has labeled as a bloated federal workforce. The dismissals of probationary employees, including those at the forefront of day-to-day forecasting and hazard warnings, have sparked criticism from politicians and scientists alike.

Rep. Grace Meng of New York condemned the terminations as unjust and potentially harmful to American lives and property. Similarly, Rep. Jared Huffman highlighted the loss of scientific expertise at NOAA due to the layoffs. Climate scientist Daniel Swain warned that such short-sighted decisions could compromise public safety and the economy’s resilience to weather and climate-related disasters.

The repercussions of these layoffs extend beyond individual job losses, raising broader questions about the government’s approach to workforce management and the prioritization of public safety in the face of climate challenges. The controversy surrounding these dismissals underscores the critical role of weather forecasters and NOAA employees in safeguarding communities from natural disasters.