Washington: The White House has dismissed accusations that recent staffing cuts to the National Weather Service (NWS) by the Trump administration contributed to the devastating floods in Texas, labeling such claims as “a depraved lie.” White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized on Monday that the flooding was an “act of God” and not the result of any administrative actions. Leavitt assured the public that despite the staffing issues, the NWS fulfilled its duties by providing “early and consistent warnings.”
According to Ghana News Agency, the controversy was fueled by Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer’s call for an investigation into whether the reduction in staffing at crucial local NWS stations played a role in the catastrophic outcomes of the flooding. Schumer’s assertions have added fuel to the ongoing debate over the administration’s handling of the situation.
Reports indicate that over 500 NWS workers were either cut or left voluntarily during the Trump administration, leading to significant understaffing issues. The NWS office for Austin/San Antonio, responsible for the area heavily impacted by the floods, notably Kerr County, currently lists six out of 27 positions as vacant. This includes a key managerial role critical for issuing warnings and coordinating with local emergency management teams.
The consequences of the flooding have been tragic, with officials reporting at least 110 fatalities and over 170 individuals still unaccounted for. As the region grapples with the aftermath, the political and administrative dimensions of the disaster continue to unfold.