WASHINGTON — The National Weather Service (NWS) is set to hire about 125 new meteorologists and specialists for forecast offices across the country as hurricane season begins. That move follows the loss of more than 560 employees who were laid off or opted for early retirement under President Donald Trump's cost cutting efforts.

The new positions won't fully replace the employees lost during the reductions to the NWS and its parent organization, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

The weather service has announced plans to transfer meteorologists from well-staffed offices to those experiencing significant shortages. Despite these efforts, some offices are still expected to cease 24-7 operations if they cannot hire additional staff.

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