WASHINGTON D.C (VINnews)-The Federal Emergency Management Agency is unprepared for the official start of the Atlantic hurricane season on June 1, according to an internal review obtained by CNN.
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The review, commissioned by Acting Administrator David Richardson, outlines operational setbacks and organizational confusion amid significant changes within the agency. “As FEMA transforms to a smaller footprint, the intent for this hurricane season is not well understood,” the document states. It also warns that “if an organization hears it should be eliminated or abolished, the resources and cooperation are not there.”
The report highlights FEMA’s struggles following months of mounting political pressure. Since January, President Donald Trump and top officials have criticized the agency’s effectiveness. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, whose department oversees FEMA, has publicly vowed to “eliminate” the agency altogether.
Last week, former Acting Administrator Cameron Hamilton was dismissed after telling members of Congress he did not support the proposed dismantling of FEMA.
The internal review has raised concerns among emergency management experts about the country’s readiness to respond to natural disasters during a critical time of year. The Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June through November, is projected to be more active than average in 2025.
