The National Weather Service is facing a severe staffing crisis, with nearly half of its forecast offices experiencing 20% vacancy rates, double that of a decade ago. This shortage comes during a period of severe weather, including tornadoes and flooding, exacerbating the risks associated with inadequate meteorological support. Critical understaffing has hindered the ability of meteorologists to conduct necessary surveys and issue timely warnings, raising concerns among experts about the potential for increased fatalities due to the lack of resources and personnel. Former officials emphasize the urgent need to address these staffing issues to safeguard public safety.
The weather service is scrambling to keep up with severe weather forecasts and warnings amid alarming staffing shortages, which has resulted in increased vacancy rates across the nation.
With vacancy rates reaching 20% or higher in over half of national weather offices, experts warn of critical understaffing that poses risks to public safety.
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