The National Weather Service (NWS) is bolstering its ranks, hiring back 450 meteorologists, hydrologists, and radar technicians after facing significant staff reductions earlier this year. This move comes after Nebraska U.S. Rep. Mike Flood, R-Neb., highlighted the critical need to strengthen the agency during a town hall in Lincoln on August 4, 2025.
The cuts stemmed from the Department of Government Efficiency’s (DOGE) efforts to reshape the federal bureaucracy. While the NWS has faced staffing challenges for some time, the recent reductions prompted “urgent action,” according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
Rep. Flood championed the effort to reverse the DOGE cuts, which had forced the Weather Service office in the Omaha area and other Great Plains offices to temporarily halt the deployment of weather balloons in April. These balloons are crucial for gathering atmospheric data used in forecasting.
“For decades, the National Weather Service has helped keep our communities safe with accurate and timely forecasts,” Flood said in a statement, emphasizing the importance of a well-staffed and resourced agency.
Retiring U.S. Rep. Don Bacon, R-Neb., also voiced concerns about the NWS cuts in a letter to U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. Earlier this year, the Trump administration reportedly fired roughly 600 workers from both agencies. These cuts led to reduced monitoring capabilities in some rural parts of western and southwestern Nebraska, raising concerns about public safety.
Oklahoma also experienced similar impacts from the DOGE cuts. The National Weather Center in Norman saw layoffs and early retirements. NOAA has now been exempted from a federal hiring freeze to address these forecasting gaps.
CNN reported that the agency aims to onboard 450 meteorologists, hydrologists, and radar technicians nationwide. The weather service offices in Norman and Tulsa may be eligible for new hires to fill vacant positions.
Why This Matters
Meteorologists and scientists have warned that a leaner weather service would negatively impact forecasting accuracy and public safety. Weather service employees are responsible for continuously updating forecasts and coordinating with local officials during natural disasters. The restored staffing levels are a welcome development for communities across the country.
Potential Challenges Ahead
Despite the hiring news, the U.S. House Appropriations Committee has proposed a budget cut of approximately $380 million to NOAA. While Rep. Tom Cole (R-Okla), chair of the committee, has expressed support for the National Weather Service, the proposed cuts could still pose challenges to the agency's operations.