FEMA’s David Richardson Issues Urgent Warning: 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season Could Be the Fiercest in Decades

By Washington Correspondent Jane Ellison | June 3, 2025 The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is scrambling to reassure coastal communities after multiple media outlets reported that its acting administrator, David Richardson, told staff on Monday he was “unaware the United States has a hurricane season.” The remark, first revealed by Reuters and confirmed by CNN and The New York Times, set off a political firestorm just as forecasters project an “extremely active” 2025 Atlantic hurricane season. Internal Comment Spurs Public Backlash According to two officials present at the all-hands meeting, Richardson made the comment while discussing budget priorities for disaster response. The Department of Homeland Security later said the remark was “a joke taken out of context,” but lawmakers from Florida, Louisiana and Texas—states routinely struck by hurricanes—called for immediate clarification of FEMA’s readiness. • Rep. Carlos Giménez (R-FL) called the statement “deeply alarming at the dawn of peak storm months.” • Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) demanded FEMA brief Congress on preparedness plans within 48 hours. • Former FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate said on X, “Hurricane season awareness is Disaster Management 101.” Richardson’s Record Under New Scrutiny Richardson, 47, was appointed acting administrator on May 10 after a 15-year logistics career in the private sector. He has yet to face Senate confirmation hearings. Critics argue his background lacks the emergency-management experience typically expected for the post; supporters note his supply-chain expertise could streamline post-storm aid deliveries. What an “Extremely Active” Season Means NOAA’s latest outlook predicts 23 named storms, 11 hurricanes and up to 6 major hurricanes (Category 3 or higher). Warm Atlantic sea-surface temperatures and a fading El Niño tilt the odds toward landfalling systems along the Gulf and Southeastern coasts. Key Preparedness Steps for Residents 1. Update evacuation plans and identify multiple exit routes. 2. Restock 7-day supplies of water, non-perishable food, prescriptions and pet needs. 3. Review homeowners and flood-insurance policies; most policies require 30 days to take effect. 4. Sign up for local emergency alerts and download the free FEMA mobile app. 5. Harden homes—trim trees, secure outdoor furniture and install storm shutters where possible. FEMA’s Response So Far In a late-night statement, Richardson vowed “unwavering commitment” to disaster readiness, citing: • Pre-positioning of 4 million meals, 3 million liters of water and 1 million tarps at distribution centers in Georgia, Texas and Puerto Rico. • Activation of Incident Support Bases in Jacksonville and Baton Rouge by June 15. • Surge staffing agreements with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and American Red Cross. Political Implications Ahead of Confirmation Senate Homeland Security Committee Chair Gary Peters (D-MI) signaled the remark will “absolutely” be discussed if the White House nominates Richardson for the permanent post. Republicans say it underscores the need for experienced leadership; Democrats warn against politicizing disaster response. The Bottom Line With the first named storm possible as early as next week, communities from Brownsville to Cape Hatteras cannot afford mixed messages. Regardless of Richardson’s intent, FEMA’s credibility now hinges on swift, transparent action and clear communication to the 65 million Americans living in hurricane-prone counties.