The Trump administration is addressing criticism of Acting FEMA Chief David Richardson after he reportedly said he was unaware the U.S. had a hurricane season, raising questions about the agency's preparedness for the busy season that officially began this week.

FEMA is dismissing recent reports that its acting administrator was unaware of hurricane season, calling David Richardson's widely circulated remark a "joke."

In a meeting with FEMA staff, David Richardson said he was unaware the United States had a hurricane season. Two staff members said it was unclear if he was serious, but the agency said he was joking.