In a move widely condemned as “cruel and thoughtless,” the Trump administration has fired hundreds of employees at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the leading US agency responsible for climate research and monitoring.

The sudden layoffs, which were announced via email, informed affected employees that their jobs would be terminated effective immediately, with their last day of work being the same day they received the notification. This drastic measure has left many stunned and outraged, with some describing it as “wrong all around.”

The firings have sparked widespread criticism, with many arguing that the move is not only heartless but also undermines the critical work of NOAA in understanding and addressing the pressing issue of climate change. The agency plays a vital role in providing research, data, and warnings on weather patterns, ocean health, and climate trends, which inform policy decisions and protect communities.

The motivations behind the mass firings are unclear, but they come as the Trump administration continues to face criticism for its stance on climate change. The president has repeatedly expressed skepticism about the science behind climate change, and his administration has taken steps to roll back environmental regulations and withdraw from international climate agreements.

The impact of the firings on NOAA’s operations and the wider scientific community is still unfolding, but experts warn that the loss of expertise and institutional knowledge could have long-term consequences for the agency’s ability to fulfill its mission.

As the news of the firings spreads, many are calling on the Trump administration to reconsider its decision and prioritize the critical work of NOAA in addressing the climate crisis. The move has also reignited debates about the importance of protecting scientific research and the need for greater investment in climate science and policy.