Acting FEMA Administrator David Richardson has sparked confusion and concern after telling agency staff he was unaware the United States has a hurricane season—just as the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season began and forecasts predict an above-average year for storms.
Richardson, who took over FEMA leadership in May and has no prior experience in disaster response, made the comment during an internal briefing, leaving many employees baffled about whether he was joking or serious The Department of Homeland Security quickly clarified that Richardson’s remark was meant in jest and insisted the agency is prepared for hurricane season.
Despite official reassurances, Richardson’s statement comes at a tense moment for FEMA. The agency is operating with a reduced workforce after significant staff cuts, and internal reviews have warned that FEMA is “not ready” for the 2025 season Richardson also announced there would be no new disaster response plan this year, contradicting earlier promises to update strategy before hurricane season began.
This series of events has intensified scrutiny from lawmakers and disaster experts, who question FEMA’s readiness and Richardson’s qualifications to lead during one of the nation’s most challenging weather periods With hurricane season stretching through November and the potential for multiple major storms, FEMA’s ability to respond effectively is under the spotlight like never before.
