US Faces Above-Average Hurricane Season Amid NOAA Staff, Budget Cuts

US weather experts are warning of an above-normal and potentially severe Atlantic hurricane season in 2025, with forecasts predicting 13 to 19 named storms, including six to 10 hurricanes and three to five major hurricanes with sustained winds exceeding 111 mph. This heightened risk is attributed to factors such as warmer sea surface temperatures, neutral El Niño conditions, weak wind shear, and increased activity from the West African Monsoon. However, these predictions come amidst significant staffing and budget cuts to NOAA, the US's primary weather agency, under the Trump administration, raising concerns about the country's ability to track storms and provide timely warnings. Additionally, the administration has sought to dismantle FEMA, with its acting head recently dismissed after opposing the move. Scientists warn that reductions in NOAA personnel, including critical management positions at key locations like Houston, may undermine preparedness efforts, especially in vulnerable regions. The previous 2024 hurricane season was notably costly and deadly, amplifying fears about the potential impacts of the upcoming season amid reduced federal support for weather monitoring and emergency management.