Say What You Want about TV Meteorologists But What They Say Can Save Lives

Running debate continues as to the relevance of on-air meteorologists.  Are we a source for only entertainment or something more important?  Perhaps a little of both. 

And some scientists worry younger viewers are tuning out entirely.  In fact, it's estimated regular local TV viewership among people under 30 fell from 42% in 2006 to 28% in 2012.  In response, certain outlets, like the National Weather Service, have taken to social media with real-time warnings on Twitter and Facebook as a way to keep the attention of this kind of audience.

However, there's still a segment of the population, like the old and poor, who are reliant on severe storm warnings solely through TV news.  Also keep in mind, so many residents of Fairdale, Illinois needed their TV weather forecasters to warn them a half-wide, 200 mph tornado was approaching.  This town, not officially in the tornado alley of the U.S., doesn't have sirens at all.  Two people died on the night of April 9th when the twister struck.

Keep in mind the National Weather Service wants you to have two different types of methods of receiving warnings.  Weather radios and sirens are good methods.  And obviously, TV news is another great example.