Rep. Flood announces more meteorologists and balloon launches coming to Nebraska
After months of staffing shortages and a reduction in critical weather data collection, Nebraska’s National Weather Service is getting much-needed reinforcements.
By News Channel NebraskaOMAHA, Neb - After months of staffing shortages and a reduction in critical weather data collection, Nebraska’s National Weather Service is getting much-needed reinforcements.
Congressman Mike Flood announcing that two meteorologists will arrive next week on temporary assignment to support the understaffed Valley office, which has operated with only eight of its usual 13 forecasters.
The staffing shortage had also led to a cutback in weather balloon launches.
"It's bigger than weather balloons, we'll also have extra forecasters working inside this weather station to make sure we have the most accurate forecasts," said Flood.
The temporary assignments could become permanent and are now part of a nationwide policy shift to help other under-resourced weather offices.
Currently, the Valley office launches one balloon per day, but that number will return to two next week.
Flood also highlighted plans to introduce legislation that would classify NWS employees as public safety personnel...
Offices in places like North Platte, Rapid City, and Goodland, Kansas, are also expected to benefit from the new staffing flexibility.