SE Nebraska News

Following recent efforts by Congressmen Mike Flood (NE-01) and Eric Sorensen (IL-17), the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has announced plans to hire 450 meteorologists, hydrologists, and radar technicians for the National Weather Service (NWS). This move comes after concerns about staffing shortages that have impacted weather operations nationwide.

“For decades the National Weather Service has helped keep our communities safe with accurate and timely forecasts,” said Congressman Flood. “This announcement from the administration sends a message that they’re focused on strengthening the NWS for years to come. I applaud the decision and will continue to work to support the agency’s critical work.”

“For months, Congressman Flood and I have been fighting to get NOAA and NWS employees the support they need in the face of cuts to staff and funding,” said Congressman Sorensen. “Hundreds of unfilled positions have caused NWS offices across the country to cancel weather balloon launches, forgo overnight staffing, and force remaining meteorologists to overwork themselves. While I welcome this overdue news to hire more meteorologists, we need to pass our bipartisan bill to ensure these new hires are permanent and protected from any future cuts.”

Earlier this year, Congressmen Flood and Sorensen introduced a bipartisan measure called the Weather Workforce Improvement Act. The proposed legislation would allow NWS offices to quickly fill essential roles such as meteorologists, general physical scientists, hydrologists, computer specialists, and electronic technicians. The bill aims both to recognize their public safety role appropriately and protect them from future staffing reductions.

Congressman Mike Flood has represented Nebraska’s 1st District in Congress since 2022 after replacing Jeff Fortenberry. He previously served in the Nebraska State Legislature from 2007 until 2013. Born in Omaha in 1975, Flood is now based in Norfolk. He earned his undergraduate degree at the University of Notre Dame in 1997 before completing his law degree at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 2001.

Flood also serves as Chair of the Republican Main Street Caucus as well as Co-Chair of the Broadcasters Caucus.