Meteorologist Concerned About 'Weather Warning Fatigue': Readers Speak Out

Oklahoma meteorologist Rick Smith describes analyzing the performance of weather alerts after major weather events as akin to watching a movie. Concerned about “weather alert fatigue,” meteorologists carefully craft their messages and warnings to sound more casual when addressing the public.

We asked readers to share what information they look for in severe weather coverage. Here’s what they had to say:

The main information I’m looking for is the time frame and the area affected. Knowing where severe weather will occur and what area will be affected allows me to make the best decisions for my family.

— Pearce Pittman, Oklahoma City

I look for information about the strength of storms, the likelihood of large hail and tornadoes, locations in the path of the storms, and timing so I know when to change plans, when to remove items from my storm shelter, and when to move into the shelter must reach. I hate not being in our area when the weather is bad because other places only provide general information – not enough to make decisions.

–Laura Elwell, Edmond

“We interrupt your program to let you know that we have received reports that it is raining in far northern Kansas. “I don’t think this will increase, but there is a 20 percent chance that some people in the five square mile area will get wet.” We have crews on the way, but I will remain on the air to update you until they arrive in about an hour.

—Keaton Cudd, Oklahoma City

I’m tired of weather people flooding the airwaves before a single raindrop falls. It’s “OMG Weather Alert” and not usually anything local.

—Lezette Pemberton, Oklahoma City

I am very grateful for the weather warnings broadcast on television. Unfortunately, I get a little tired of hearing the same news over and over again, especially when it has nothing to do with my community. I realize it’s not really possible to predict exact locations for weather, which often develops without warnings. DO NOT stop giving warnings. Just see if there is a way to reduce announcements without reducing the value of the alerts. Replace verbal warnings with text messages?? Just a thought.

—Richard C. (Dick) Hall, Norman

More: How can Oklahoma retain its college graduates? This is what readers say about “Brain Drain”

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