National Weather Service Cuts Raise Concerns for Oregon’s Public Safety
By Sage Van Wing and Geoff Norcross, Oregon Public Broadcasting
Oregon’s state climatologist, Larry O’Neill, is sounding the alarm over significant job losses at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), which could critically impact the state’s weather services. At least 880 positions have been slashed nationally, with the repercussions strongly felt in Oregon, as highlighted by U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell of Washington.
In an interview with Oregon Public Broadcasting’s “All Things Considered,” O’Neill emphasized the National Weather Service (NWS)’s vital role in providing accurate and timely weather information, particularly during extreme weather events. The NWS delivers essential services including weather radars and industry-specific forecasts for sectors like agriculture, shipping, and water management, making it integral to both public safety and economic security.
Recent personnel cuts could lead to a decline in the accuracy and timeliness of weather forecasts, critical during severe situations such as flooding or wildfires. O’Neill warned that the lack of timely information might compromise public safety and hinder wildland firefighting efforts.
When asked about potential private sector alternatives, O’Neill noted that services like AccuWeather and mobile weather apps do not offer the localized or timely alerts necessary for public safety, stating, "There’s no replacement for those services that the weather service provides."
Despite ongoing debates about the efficiency of federal agencies, O’Neill defended the NWS, asserting that it operates efficiently and the benefits it provides far outweigh the costs. "This program is not wasteful, it cannot be replicated by the private industry, and it really is a benefit to society," he asserted.
The potential fallout from these budget cuts raises critical questions about the future of weather forecasting in Oregon.
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