A Marine Corps veteran, Richardson started leading FEMA early in May. His comment on hurricane season came amid concerns about how the departure of top FEMA officials, lay-offs and budget reductions will leave the agency unfit to do their job.

As President Trump remakes the agency, former officials say the changes could leave states without key federal support after disasters.

David Richardson’s comment to staff that he was unaware the United States had a hurricane season was meant in jest, the Department of Homeland Security said.