A troubling internal review from the Federal Emergency Management Agency reveals the organization is unprepared for the upcoming hurricane season, which begins on June 1, as leadership turmoil and staffing issues plague the agency.
The assessment, prepared under new acting Administrator David Richardson, highlights major operational challenges including poor coordination with states, low staff morale, and paused critical training programs.
“It is concerning to me,” said Nishi Kothari, a partner at Brasher Law Firm in Houston who specializes in helping clients navigate home insurance claims. “What we’re going to see is a slowdown of people receiving funds, whether it’s from their own insurance company or FEMA.”
The agency faces significant internal discord amid political pressure. FEMA has lost approximately 30% of its full-time workforce to layoffs and buyouts, including experienced senior leadership, according to federal sources. The staffing cuts could severely impact disaster response capabilities when communities need them most.
Richardson, who replaced former acting Administrator Cameron Hamilton last week, told staff he would “run right over” anyone preventing him from carrying out the president’s objectives, according to internal communications obtained by CNN.
Despite federal uncertainty, local experts emphasize homeowners can take crucial steps to protect themselves before severe weather strikes.
“First and foremost, review the insurance policies that you do have,” Kothari advised. She recommends carefully examining coverage details, particularly regarding wind damage and hurricane deductibles.
Essential Hurricane Preparation Steps
Kothari outlined several critical actions homeowners should take:
- Document house contents thoroughly with photographs before severe weather events
- Secure important insurance policy documents in easily accessible locations
- Repair vulnerable areas like broken doors or leaning fences
- Secure outdoor items like grills and tents that could become projectiles
A significant challenge facing homeowners is flood coverage. “What no homeowner insurance policy covers for is flood, and all of that is written through the national flood insurance policy program which is operated by FEMA and the federal government,” Kothari explained.
The timing of FEMA’s internal struggles raises particular concerns for coastal communities. With hurricane season beginning in just over two weeks, the agency’s readiness issues could leave vulnerable populations at greater risk.
