Layoffs at NOAA raise concern hurricane preparedness

Layoffs at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration are raising concerns about the potential impact on Saint Lucia’s hurricane preparedness. With 800 employees cut, including experts in weather and climate monitoring, the island’s reliance on NOAA’s forecasting models could be affected. However, Acting Director of the St. Lucia Met Services, Vigil Saltibus, assures that alternative agencies in Europe and the region are stepping in to support forecasting efforts.