Recent cuts to the National Weather Service by Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency have raised concerns among Nebraska’s federal delegation. Last month, 1,000 jobs were cut at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), resulting in the suspension of weather balloon deployments in the Omaha area and other Great Plains offices. Weather balloons are crucial for forecasting in a region known for volatile weather patterns.
U.S. Rep. Don Bacon expressed his concern about the layoffs at NOAA, highlighting the agency’s role in protecting Nebraskans from dangerous weather events. The Omaha office has been understaffed for over a year, leading to the decision to halt weather balloon launches and focus on real-time analysis. NOAA had already laid off hundreds of employees before the recent round of cuts.
Nebraska’s all-GOP delegation has expressed concerns about the impact of grounding weather balloons on forecasting accuracy. U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer stated that her office will monitor the situation, while U.S. Rep. Adrian Smith is seeking information to ensure timely weather notifications for Nebraskans. Agricultural meteorologist Eric Hunt warned of reduced forecasting accuracy and shorter warning times for severe weather if the cuts continue.
With the potential for decreased forecasting accuracy, efforts are being made to restore funding to the National Weather Service and ensure the continued provision of vital weather information. Members of Congress plan to meet with the agency to explore options for maintaining weather monitoring services.
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