FEMA Faces Chaos, Uncertainty Ahead of 2025 Hurricane Season

During President Donald Trump's second term, FEMA has faced significant challenges in disaster response, including delays in approving relief funds and poor communication with state agencies, as exemplified by a delayed approval for Arkansas after deadly storms. Acting FEMA Administrator David Richardson, appointed in May and lacking disaster management experience, has sparked controversy by rescinding FEMA's strategic plan and deciding not to release new hurricane-specific guidance for the 2025 season, opting instead to rely on last year's plan. Internal documents reveal that FEMA is behind schedule and unprepared for the hurricane season, with concerns about the agency's reduced workforce and elimination of key resilience programs. Despite Richardson joking about not knowing there was a hurricane season, DHS officials assert FEMA is prepared, though many employees and experts express skepticism. The administration's approach signals a shift toward a smaller, state-empowered disaster response, raising fears that FEMA may be less capable of addressing large-scale emergencies effectively. Overall, the agency's turmoil and leadership changes have heightened uncertainty about the nation's readiness for imminent natural disasters.