Current and former agency officials and lawmakers said the cuts could have major impacts on Americans and the economy, compromising important functions.

In addition to everyday forecasting, NOAA — which houses the National Weather Service, the National Hurricane Center and two tsunami warning centers

current and former staffers said an exodus of new hires and veterans will hinder the agency’s ability to monitor and predict weather hazards.

The terminations come days before a potential severe weather outbreak in the southeastern U.S. — and just months ahead of the next Atlantic hurricane season.