1A Preparing For Hurricane Season
Jun 5, 2025
Christopher Flavel, a New York Times reporter, discusses the impact of federal budget cuts on disaster response, specifically how it affects agencies like FEMA during hurricane season. David Merrick, from Florida State University, highlights the urgent need for preparedness as forecasts predict an above-average number of hurricanes. Matt Sitkowski, science editor at The Weather Channel, adds insights on changing hurricane patterns, such as increased inland flooding, while emphasizing the importance of accurate forecasts amidst staffing challenges.
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Above Normal Hurricane Season Forecast
- Hurricane season is predicted to be above normal with 3 to 5 major hurricanes instead of the usual 3.
- Hurricanes tend to act like a leaf in a stream, guided by large atmospheric patterns that dictate their paths.
Hurricanes Get Wetter and Slower
- Hurricanes are moving slower and dropping heavier rainfall, causing flooding well inland, not just on coasts.
- Recent storms like Harvey and Helene highlight the danger of slow-moving, wetter hurricanes.
Concerns Over Agency Staff Cuts
- The Trump administration's staffing cuts at NOAA and FEMA are unprecedented and pose uncertainty about hurricane prediction and response.
- Loss of local meteorologists at NOAA especially could affect severe weather forecasting.