The Weather Channel Expected To Become Hub For Local Stations

Allen Media Group's new local weather initiative with The Weather Channel is causing uncertainty for meteorologists at 27 local TV news stations. The initiative, set to roll out in 2025, aims to enhance weather coverage with "additional visual storytelling capabilities". 

The plan involves meteorologists at The Weather Channel in Atlanta producing content for local stations across the country, led by Carl Parker.

Severe weather will remain a priority, and the new format is expected to improve reporting capabilities, especially in high-stakes weather situations. However, the company has not detailed how this change will affect local meteorologists1. Some meteorologists, like Amber Kulick and Josh Franson, have already expressed concerns about their job security.

Local meteorologists play a crucial role in providing life-saving weather information and other critical updates, such as wildfire perimeters and evacuations. The community connection they offer is invaluable, and there are concerns about losing this critical service.

Allen Media Group acquired The Weather Channel in 2018. The new initiative is part of the broadcast industry's efforts to engage audiences amid declining viewership due to cord-cutting and the rise of streaming platforms.

The group, which owns TV stations in 21 markets across the country, said Saturday it is rolling out a new format for weather coverage that will have "additional visual storytelling capabilities" across its stations in 2025.

The move comes as the broadcast industry, particularly television, seeks new ways to engage audiences as it navigates waning viewership amid cord cutting and the rise of streaming platforms.

Allen Media Group took ownership of The Weather Channel in 2018.