Musk-Led Efficiency Team Targets NOAA, Sparking Concerns Over Climate Data and Weather Forecasts

WASHINGTON — The White House’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by billionaire Elon Musk, has sparked concerns as it scrutinizes the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), raising alarms about potential impacts on climate data and weather forecasts.

According to sources familiar with the situation, DOGE officials have accessed NOAA’s IT systems, prompting worries about data integrity and future operations. This development follows reports of anticipated 50% staff reductions and 30% budget cuts at NOAA, as revealed by former officials to CBS News.

Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) expressed his concerns, stating, ‘NOAA is vital for weather forecasting, scientific research, and more. Their critical work saves lives. My team and I are looking into this and will not stand for it.’ His office is investigating DOGE’s activities, which include oversight of agencies like the National Weather Service.

Representatives Jared Huffman and Zoe Lofgren, ranking members of House committees, shared their apprehensions in a statement: ‘Elon Musk and his DOGE hackers are ransacking their way through the federal government, gutting programs people depend on. Now, they’re wreaking havoc on NOAA’s systems that protect American families’ safety and jobs.’

Former NOAA Deputy Director Andrew Rosenberg noted that DOGE staff bypassed security and accessed IT systems without substantive discussions about NOAA’s role, suggesting this isn’t merely an efficiency review.

The situation unfolds as Dr. Neil Jacobs, nominee for NOAA administrator, awaits Senate confirmation. NOAA and White House spokespeople have not responded to requests for comment.

Environmental groups and archivists are rushing to preserve climate datasets, fearing data loss. This effort includes the End-of-Term Web Archive, crucial for maintaining historical records as administrations change.

Protesters and lawmakers are demanding accountability, with over 100 gathering at the Department of Labor, criticizing Musk’s role. Congressional Republicans blocked a subpoena for Musk to testify, defending his actions as government streamlining.

As Musk’s team, including young, inexperienced members, continues its review, concerns about their impact on NOAA’s mission persist, highlighting the tension between efficiency and essential public services.