Why meteorologists cut into broadcasts for storm coverage

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

This past weekend, both Morgan and Moniteau counties saw confirmed tornadoes. This lead to damage across some portions of Mid-Missouri. Thankfully, nobody was injured or killed.

But this isn't always the case with severe storms and the effects could range from loss of property to large mass casualty events like that seen during the 2011 Joplin tornado. 

Although some people may get angry whenever they see meteorologist -- like those on ABC 17 News -- interrupt their favorite show or a game, it is a responsibility that falls on us to keep you safe.

According to FCC guidelines, we will cut into programing for, "emergency situations in which the broadcasting of information is considered as furthering the safety of life and property include, but are not limited to the following: tornadoes, hurricanes, floods, tidal waves, earthquakes, icing conditions, heavy snows, widespread fires." 

This gives us the ability to work to serve the public, when storms are in your backyard. Whenever we cut into programming and there isn't a tornado warning in your backyard, it is in somebody else's. As soon as the threat is gone, we will cut back to your scheduled programing as soon as possible. ​​​​​​​