National Weather Service to Rehire Hundreds After Deep Cuts

The National Weather Service (NWS) will hire 450 meteorologists, hydrologists, and radar technicians after last year’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) cuts and early retirements slashed its workforce by more than 550. The move, announced Monday, restores “front-line mission critical” positions, including 126 previously approved roles, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

According to CNN, the staffing crisis had raised concerns about preparedness for hurricane season and response to disasters such as the deadly Texas floods in July. Lawmakers helped secure a public safety exemption from the federal hiring freeze, giving NWS direct hiring authority to speed recruitment.

While employees welcomed the news, some voiced frustration over losing trained staff and the cost of bringing in replacements. The agency plans to prioritise hires based on workload needs, with the possibility of rehiring some former employees.