NOAA Faces Major Layoffs as Federal Workforce Cuts Impact Weather Services

The National Weather Service (NWS) and the National Hurricane Center (NHC) have been significantly impacted by the Trump Administration’s federal workforce reductions. As part of the cutbacks, the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), spearheaded by Elon Musk, has laid off 1,300 employees from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the agency responsible for overseeing weather forecasting.

Among those affected is Andy Hazelton, a dedicated meteorologist who worked behind the scenes to improve forecasting models. Unlike the familiar faces seen on television tracking hurricanes, Hazelton’s role involved refining the Global Forecast System (GFS) storm tracking model, ensuring more accurate predictions. Despite his crucial contributions, Hazelton was abruptly dismissed while working at the National Hurricane Center.

Reflecting on his sudden termination, Hazelton shared, “It kinda hit me very heavily. I mean, I think we all thought it was possible.” While NOAA employees were aware of potential cuts, many believed their work—critical to public safety—would be safeguarded.

Hazelton had dedicated over eight years to NOAA, first as a contract employee and later as a federal staffer. Unfortunately, still within his probationary period, he was let go via email, highlighting the harsh reality of workforce reductions affecting essential government services. The layoffs raise concerns about the future of hurricane forecasting and public safety, as fewer experts remain to enhance and maintain these life-saving models.