FEMA Faces Intense Scrutiny Amid Double Hurricane Threat

FEMA is under pressure due to Hurricanes Milton and Helene, exacerbating existing issues like funding shortages and political disinformation campaigns. With limited resources available, FEMA's capacity to respond is strained. Officials emphasize readiness despite these hurdles, while battling misinformation about fund allocation.

Hurricanes Milton and Helene are testing FEMA's capacity as the agency grapples with funding shortages and misinformation campaigns. Already stretched thin, the federal emergency body faces increased scrutiny over past inadequacies in disaster handling.

As Hurricane Milton heads towards Florida's Tampa Bay area—still reeling from Hurricane Helene's recent devastation—FEMA is finding itself at a crossroads. Current emergencies number over a hundred, but only 9% of the disaster-response workforce can be allocated for Milton's aftermath, raising questions about preparedness.

FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell affirms the agency's readiness, though Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas warns of insufficient funds for the season. Simultaneously, FEMA battles disinformation, including claims of fund misuse, further complicating its crisis management efforts.

(With inputs from agencies.)