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.

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.

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.