Industry Can Expect Lower Accuracy and Slower Reporting

A recent report from the National Weather Service, showing vacancies as high as 40% in some forecast offices, has the industry bracing for lower accuracy and slower data reporting. The agency has already begun cutting several weather collection methods in more heavily affected areas.

Like many other groups, the National Weather Service was a victim of government-issued pushes for staff cuts and hiring freezes. Upwards of 500 people have left the NWS’s parent agency (NOAA) this year, with 200 being from already understaffed weather forecasting offices. This has caused not only low-level positions to be left vacant, but also higher priority roles like a meteorologist in charge at the NWS Louisville office.

The firings quickly earned criticism from both internal and external stakeholders, warning that leaving too many vacant positions would negatively affect both the accuracy and efficiency of weather reporting.

“Chaotic and illegal firings, coercions to resign, reductions in force, and a general obsession with destroying the morale of dedicated public servants have left the National Weather Service’s work force so strained they cannot carry out their duties as they once did,” stated Rep Zoe Lofgren, senior Democrat on the House Committee on Science, Space and Technology.

One piece of the puzzle that has already been damaged by the staff shortage is weather balloon launches. The NWS recently announced that it would be reducing or completely stopping balloon operations at 11 locations, reducing the amount of atmospheric data collection. This hinders the service’s ability to build accurate weather models and forecasts.

Too many vacancies can also make it harder for the NWS to respond to weather emergencies, provide timely warnings, test new technologies, and ensure that the correct information is being put out.

FMI: www.weather.gov