Alabama TV meteorologists face layoffs as Allen Media shifts to local Weather Channel coverage

Allen Media Broadcasting, which operates 27 television stations in 21 U.S. markets, announced plans to begin using “local weather coverage powered by The Weather Channel in local markets nationwide.”

Will this mean layoffs for meteorologists at these stations, including two in Huntsville and Montgomery?

At least one news report says the move will result in nearly 100 layoffs at local news stations across the country.

“As of now, I am still at the station but am looking for my next career opportunity,” Amber Kulick of WAAY in Huntsville posted on Facebook.

“I know my management team has done everything they can to make things better, but this is at a company level, so please don’t badmouth WAAY on this post. I’ll land on my feet, like I always do,” added Kulick, who said she hopes to continue working in the Huntsville area.

Allen Media, which also runs WCOV in Montgomery, said it plans to roll out this “innovative partnership based at The Weather Channel’s Atlanta headquarters” later this year.

“Weather coverage remains a top priority, and the new format will significantly improve reporting capabilities, especially in high-stakes weather situations. This initiative aims to transform the way local weather is reported, ensuring the most accurate, timely and engaging forecasts for communities across the country,” states a press release from Allen Media Broadcasting.

James Spann of ABC 33/40 weighed in on the news, which did not directly affect him since his station is owned by Sinclair Broadcast Group.

“I hate that so many colleagues are involved in this, but at the same time I’m excited about our future. All businesses change and ours is no exception. I have been riding this horse for 47 years and it has been a great ride. But media consumption is now radically different and we need to change the way our products and services reach you,” Spann posted on Facebook.

“Yes, there will be short-term challenges, but there will be long-term gains,” Spann added.

The news sparked some concerns that stations were losing the ability to transmit crucial weather information to the local public.

“Local meteorologists on TV are a trusted face, not only because they know their science, but also because they are members of this community,” Zach Stanford, former state coordinator for crisis information and disasters for the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Services. management, told NPR. “The community component must be considered to ensure that this essential service is not lost. »

A change.org petition with more than 31,000 signatures has been launched in Tupelo, Mississippi, to end layoffs at WTVA.

“Removing our local weather team means losing the trust built over years and replacing it with outsourced teams who may not fully understand our locality’s unique weather conditions. In times of bad weather, immediate and accurate information is not a luxury, it is a necessity,” the petition states.