As the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season kicks off, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) finds itself in a whirlwind of controversy—this time not from a natural disaster, but from within its own leadership. David Richardson, the acting FEMA administrator, is facing widespread criticism after reportedly expressing confusion about the existence of a U.S. hurricane season during a recent internal meeting.
The incident, which occurred during a staff briefing, has prompted fresh concerns about FEMA’s preparedness under Richardson's watch.
Who Is David Richardson?
Richardson took over as FEMA's acting chief in May 2025 following the departure of Cameron Hamilton. A former Marine Corps artillery officer, Richardson also held a senior position at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), overseeing the Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction Office.
Although experienced in national security, Richardson has no prior disaster management background—an issue some experts now believe could affect the agency’s crisis response capability.
The Gaffe That Sparked Concern
During an internal FEMA meeting in late May, Richardson reportedly said he wasn’t aware the U.S. had a hurricane season, a remark that stunned many within the agency. The fema chief hurricane season comment circulated quickly, leading to questions about his familiarity with one of the agency's most critical responsibilities.
DHS later issued a clarification, suggesting the statement was meant as a joke. Still, many inside FEMA and across government circles didn’t find it amusing—especially considering that the Atlantic hurricane season officially began on June 1.
FEMA’s Response Plan in Question
Adding to the controversy, Richardson recently announced that FEMA would not implement a newly proposed disaster response plan. Instead, the agency will rely on last year’s plan, citing the need to await recommendations from the FEMA Review Council.
This decision has sparked anxiety within emergency response communities, especially with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicting an above-average season, with as many as 10 hurricanes potentially forming in the Atlantic.
Hurricane Season Forecast and Public Readiness
According to NOAA, warm ocean temperatures and climate patterns suggest an active 2025 hurricane season. The typical season runs from June 1 through November 30, with peak activity expected between mid-August and late September.
With FEMA’s top leadership now under a cloud, the focus shifts to how the agency will perform if a major storm strikes. The fema chief hurricane season controversy has only added to the urgency of ensuring FEMA is ready to respond.
Leadership Style Raises Concerns
Some staff have also expressed discomfort with Richardson’s leadership style. He’s reportedly used phrases like “Don’t get in my way... I will run right over you,” which has contributed to unease within the agency.
While assertiveness may be valuable in emergency situations, critics argue that disaster response also requires empathy, communication, and a firm grasp of operational strategy—all of which are now under the spotlight.
