Tom Fahy, of the National Weather Service Employees Organization, acknowledged that the San Antonio office was operating without two key leadership positions: a science and operations officer, and a warning coordination meteorologist. Both roles are vital in improving forecasting strategy and public outreach. Still, Fahy said, “There were enough skilled forecasters on duty to respond effectively.”

Trump denies NWS staffing decisions were a factor

The tragedy has renewed scrutiny of recent changes at the National Weather Service. Earlier this year, the Trump administration implemented significant staff reductions—cutting or retiring nearly 600 NWS positions, with Elon Musk’s Office of Digital and Government Efficiency (DOGE) overseeing some of the changes.

Despite the criticism, President Donald Trump dismissed the idea that the cuts were responsible for the lack of warning. Speaking to reporters at an airport in New Jersey, he called the event a “100-year catastrophe” and suggested the failures—if any—stemmed from the previous administration.

“That was a Biden setup, not our setup,” Trump said. “But I wouldn’t blame him either. Nobody could’ve seen this coming.”

Trump added that Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem would remain in Texas to coordinate relief efforts, though he did not confirm whether he plans to visit the affected areas himself.

When asked if additional hires would help the NWS in future emergencies, Trump replied, “This was something that happened in seconds. Very talented people were involved, and they didn’t see it. So, I’m not sure hiring more people would have made a difference.”

As emergency crews continue recovery and search efforts, the nation is left grieving—with many questions still unanswered.