The ongoing federal government shutdown in the U.S. has posed concerns about natural disaster preparedness in Florida, as the state enters what has historically been the most active period of hurricane season.
Florida endured one of its most destructive hurricane seasons just last year and now watches as federal agencies responsible for weather forecasting and disaster response operate with reduced capacity. The memory of 2024's Hurricane Helene, which caused catastrophic damage across the region, followed by the powerful Hurricane Milton, remains fresh in residents' minds as they prepare for potential new storms.
Amid the shutdown, essential agencies like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) remain open but increasingly strained. NOAA currently employs fewer than 4,000 staff, its smallest workforce in decades, with remaining employees working without pay.
While FEMA maintains essential emergency functions, broader preparedness and recovery programs have been limited, potentially delaying help when communities need it most.
For some Florida residents, the situation has caused significant anxiety.
"I'm very concerned about the shutdown. I've seen a lot of flooding while I was driving around, and that was scary enough. So yes, I am very concerned about a hurricane in general," said resident Toni Jessop.
Others said they continue to feel good about the government's capacity to respond to a disaster.
"I do feel good about it. This current government seems to like Florida, so I know that they keep us in their hearts and in their minds. I've lived here for eight years, and I've always had good response from the government," resident Lin Joy said.
Toni Giulino, also a resident, expressed deep disappointment in the political gridlock that led to the shutdown.
"I'm ashamed of the government for allowing this to happen," he said.
Meanwhile, Floridians continue to watch for signs of tropical storm formation in the Atlantic, which U.S. media reports could occur as early as this week.
U.S. gov't shutdown raises concerns in hurricane-weary Florida
U.S. gov't shutdown raises concerns in hurricane-weary Florida
