Summary
A massive winter storm is expected to affect over 160 million Americans, leading to potential power outages. This storm marks the first major test for FEMA since staffing reductions during President Trump's administration. FEMA is preparing by deploying teams and coordinating with states for response efforts.
Key Facts
- Over 160 million people in the U.S. could experience severe winter weather this weekend.
- Utility companies warn of possible dangerous and life-threatening power outages.
- This storm is the first significant multistate activation for FEMA since staffing cuts during President Trump's administration.
- FEMA has deployed over 20 staff to state emergency operations centers and has several Incident Management Assistance Teams ready.
- Economists compare the impending storm to the Texas freeze in February 2021, which resulted in over 200 deaths due to power failures.
- President Trump and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem previously considered dismantling FEMA.
- FEMA's workforce reductions included about 300 staff cuts this month, with some reductions paused ahead of the storm.
- FEMA and its infrastructure and response programs faced cuts, but a coalition of states successfully blocked some reductions.
