Allen Media Group’s broadcasting division has announced a significant restructuring of its local weather operations. The plan involves combining most local weather forecasting efforts under the umbrella of The Weather Channel, a move AMG describes as leveraging the brand's strengths while maintaining its commitment to viewers. A press release distributed widely stated that the company is “rolling out a groundbreaking format for local weather coverage powered by The Weather Channel across local markets nationwide.”
The announcement, replicated across multiple AMG station websites, proclaims, “The power of The Weather Channel is coming to your local television station.” While presented identically across various platforms, the consistency does not indicate a lack of local newsroom involvement. The source is clearly identified, a common practice as long as independent reporting continues when necessary. AMG stations attribute the story to a press release service, although it's unclear if local teams will provide unbiased reporting.
The release highlights The Weather Channel’s reputation, emphasizing its “enormous resources including expert scientists, proprietary software, and award-winning technology to deliver best-in-class local weather.” This statement refers to YouGov survey data which has named The Weather Channel the most trusted news source in the U.S. for three years.
AMG calls this a new "innovative partnership" and plans a complete rollout throughout 2025. Meteorologist Carl Parker will lead the new centralized hub, though his specific role remains undefined. The announcement celebrates The Weather Channel’s 43-year history and technological capabilities but omits any discussion of potential job losses or economic benefits from this restructuring. The company assures viewers that severe weather coverage will remain a “top priority,” and the new format will “dramatically improve reporting capabilities,” lacking specifics on implementation.
Previous attempts to contact AMG for comment yielded no response. AMG also states that centralizing weather operations will increase the use of augmented reality in weather storytelling on local stations, though the frequency remains unspecified. This move has faced substantial criticism from former forecasters, media watchdogs, and industry figures, who view it as prioritizing cost-cutting over local broadcasting. However, AMG, like many traditional broadcasters, faces intense competition from streaming services and economic pressures, potentially making such cost-saving measures necessary.