Scientists and politicians are sounding the alarm about potential consequences of the layoffs, including keeping people safe and protecting the economy.

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

Scientists and researchers are warning that the Trump administration's firing of hundreds of workers at NOAA, the agency that provides the U.S. government's weather forecasts, will put American lives at risk and stifle crucial climate research.