FEMA Boss Didn’t Know US Had A Hurricane Season: Report

FEMA employees were left bewildered during a Monday briefing after agency chief David Richardson remarked that he hadn’t known the U.S. had a hurricane season, according to Reuters, citing four sources familiar with the call.

Richardson, who took over in May, remarked during an all-hands meeting and offered no clarification on whether it was meant as a joke or in earnest. The confusion added to ongoing frustrations inside FEMA, where recent leadership turnover, staffing cuts, and a delay in updated disaster plans have many worried the agency is unprepared for what’s expected to be an unusually active hurricane season.

Why It Matters

The comment has reignited concern within FEMA over Richardson’s preparedness and understanding of the agency’s core mission. With an above-normal hurricane season forecast by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), staff uncertainty and the recent loss of top officials have raised alarm about FEMA’s ability to respond effectively to disasters.

Richardson’s lack of prior disaster management experience and his decision to scrap a promised new disaster response plan have only deepened concerns about FEMA’s readiness during what is expected to be a particularly active and destructive season.

What To Know

The U.S. hurricane season runs from June through November. NOAA has predicted up to 10 hurricanes this year, some potentially severe. Richardson’s comments came the day after the season officially began.

During the call, Richardson said he was unaware of hurricane season. According to sources cited by Reuters, the tone left staff unsure if he was joking. The lack of clarification has contributed to broader confusion about leadership direction.

Richardson told staff there would be no changes to FEMA’s response plans, contradicting his pledge to unveil a new disaster strategy by May 23. He cited concerns about conflicting with the Trump-established FEMA Review Council.

Roughly a third of FEMA’s full-time staff have left since the start of Trump’s second term. Former Administrator Cameron Hamilton was ousted after publicly clashing with the administration over the agency’s future.

FEMA has scaled back hurricane training and workshops due to travel restrictions and internal shakeups. The agency’s ability to support state and local emergency efforts has been questioned.

Richardson, a former Marine artillery officer, has no background in disaster response. He previously served as DHS’s assistant secretary for countering weapons of mass destruction, a position he reportedly still holds.

What People are Saying

Acting NOAA Administrator Laura Grimm, in a recent press release: “As we witnessed last year with significant inland flooding from hurricanes Helene and Debby, the impacts of hurricanes can reach far beyond coastal communities. NOAA is critical for the delivery of early and accurate forecasts and warnings, and provides the scientific expertise needed to save lives and property.”

AccuWeather Chief Meteorologist Jon Porter, previously: “We expect fewer named storms this year compared to last year. The total number of storms is not truly what defines a hurricane season; it is the impacts to land and populated areas. It only takes one landfall to create a devastating season.”

What Happens Next

FEMA must rely heavily on remaining senior staff and short-term emergency workers to navigate the hurricane season. Whether Richardson clarifies or walks back his comment could shape internal morale and public confidence in the agency.

Update 06/02/25 7:03 p.m. ET: This article has been updated with additional information.