Weather Forecasting has Evolved and WUSA 9 Chief Meteorologist Topper Shutt Shares his Perspective

Topper Shutt, Chief Meteorologist of WUSA 9 in Washington, D.C., (the local CBS affiliate) has worked at Channel 9 since 1988.  Promoted to Chief Meteorologist in 2000, he has seen many changes in the science of meteorology and the art of broadcasting during his tenure in the Nation’s Capital.  I have worked alongside him the last few years assisting him in preparing weather graphics, updating the forecast on the station website and communicating the latest weather information to the public both on-air and online utilizing social media.
   

1.  What are some of the key differences you’ve noticed in broadcast meteorology during your tenure at WUSA 9 ?

I have witnessed a lot of changes in technology since I start in August of 1988. The modernization of the National Weather Service in 1990 included a nationwide Doppler radar system along with increased and improved computer forecast models.  That’s on top of vastly improved weather graphics system that enables us to tell the weather story.

 
2.  How large a role does social media play in your forecast?  Does social media add to your on-air segments?

Social media is huge. When there is severe weather we will push alerts out to our web site and smart phones before we go on the air or run a crawl on the air. Social media has enhanced our on air presentation. We now receive pictures of severe storms, damage and even tornadoes within minutes of their occurrence. Social media also has helped us with weather spotters in general. Now we have a fast way to engage viewers to get snow totals and storm damage.

3.  How large a split would you say there is between those people who watch you exclusively on-air vs. follow your forecasts online and through social media?

Research has shown that we reach more viewers on the social network platforms now, including Facebook, Twitter Vs. on air. On air viewers still outnumber our website users...for now.

 
4.  Do you expect to have greater viewership on air or online five years from now?

Definitely on line. Appointment TV is gone. Online viewership will surpass on air numbers as weather information must be available when viewers want it.