Swalwell: We Need to Probe if Trump’s National Weather Service Cuts Impacted TX Flood Warnings

In a recent interview on CNN’s “News Central”, Representative Eric Swalwell (D-CA) expressed his concerns about the devastating floods that hit central Texas. He emphasized the importance of investigating whether the Trump administration’s cuts to the National Weather Service (NWS) played a role in the severity of the floods and the effectiveness of the warning systems.

Swalwell stated that Congress has a responsibility to look into this matter and ensure that the NWS has the necessary resources to provide accurate and timely weather forecasts and warnings. He pointed out that the NWS plays a crucial role in protecting the lives and properties of Americans, and any cuts to its budget could have serious consequences.

The congressman’s remarks come in the wake of the deadly floods that ravaged central Texas, claiming several lives and causing extensive damage. Many have questioned whether the NWS had enough resources to accurately predict and warn about the severity of the floods. It is a valid concern, considering the Trump administration’s repeated attempts to cut the NWS budget in recent years.

One of the significant cuts proposed by the Trump administration was to eliminate funding for the NWS’s Advanced Hydrologic Prediction Service, which provides real-time flood forecasting and warning systems. This service is vital in predicting the severity and impact of floods, and any cuts to its funding could have severe consequences.

Swalwell’s call for an investigation into the impact of the NWS cuts on the central Texas floods is not just a political move. It is a genuine concern for the safety and well-being of the American people. The congressman believes that it is the government’s responsibility to provide the necessary resources for agencies like the NWS to effectively carry out their duties.

The NWS has been under immense pressure in recent years due to budget cuts and staff shortages. Despite these challenges, the agency has continued to provide accurate weather forecasts and warnings, saving countless lives. However, with the increasing frequency and severity of natural disasters, it is crucial to ensure that the NWS has the necessary resources to continue its vital work.

Furthermore, the NWS plays a significant role in climate research and monitoring. The agency’s data and research are essential in understanding the impact of climate change and developing strategies to mitigate its effects. Any cuts to its budget could have far-reaching consequences for our understanding of climate change and our ability to address it.

In conclusion, Representative Swalwell’s call for an investigation into the impact of the NWS cuts on the central Texas floods is a necessary step in ensuring the safety of the American people. It is essential to hold the government accountable for its decisions and ensure that agencies like the NWS have the resources they need to carry out their duties effectively. We must prioritize the safety and well-being of our citizens, and that starts with adequately funding agencies like the NWS. Let us hope that Congress takes this responsibility seriously and takes the necessary steps to prevent any further cuts to the NWS budget.