The 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron at Keesler Air Force Base is finalizing preparations for the upcoming 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, which officially begins June 1. Known as the Hurricane Hunters, the unit operates WC-130 aircraft directly into tropical storms and hurricanes to gather data for forecasters.
Predictions indicate the season could see above-average activity, driven partly by warmer ocean temperatures. Forecasters are predicting more activity this year. The squadron’s work is aimed at improving forecast accuracy for track and intensity, information emergency managers use for public safety decisions, including evacuations.
Based at Keesler AFB, the squadron is a component of the 403rd Wing. The unit consists of pilots, navigators, and weather officers. The data collected during missions is transmitted in real time to the National Hurricane Center in Miami.
Funding for the military Hurricane Hunters appears stable. Air Force personnel state the 403rd squadron has an annual budget of $84 million and is properly funded for the season. This contrasts with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which also operates hurricane hunter aircraft but has faced budget uncertainty and personnel changes.
Lieutenant Colonel Sean Cross, a pilot with the 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron and chief of safety for the 403rd Wing, acknowledged that potential changes to NOAA's operations could mean the Air Force squadron might need to increase its flight schedule. He stated the Biloxi-based group would continue sharing data with the National Hurricane Center as long as the center requires it.
Technological updates are planned, including testing broadband internet on the aircraft. First Lieutenant Mark McCoy, an aerial reconnaissance weather officer, said this technology would allow forecasters to see radar presentations from the planes in real time, providing them a clearer picture of storm structure.
The C-130 aircraft used by the squadron are aging. Technical Sergeant Daniel Sullivan, who performs maintenance on the planes, notes that while maintenance needs have increased, the existing technology remains functional. Pilots like Major Alex Boykin, who flew into hurricanes Helene and Francine in 2024, observe that the cost of maintaining the older aircraft is rising.
Despite the age of the fleet, squadron personnel state they are ready. In 2024, the Hurricane Hunters flew over 107 missions into 12 named storms. The 2025 season concludes November 30, but the squadron shifts to winter operations afterward.
Lieutenant Colonel Cross urged residents in coastal areas to prepare ahead of the season. Referencing the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina this year, he emphasized the importance of discussing hurricane risks and preparing families.