Statement regarding NBC13HD Severe Weather Coverage

NBC 13 HD works diligently to alert viewers to the threat of severe weather. Our primary objective in this effort is to make sure that viewers receive the vital information they need to make appropriate decisions to protect life and property in the event of threatening weather. We utilize a variety of methods to deliver this potentially life-saving information to viewers. Those methods include information and graphics superimposed over a portion of the screen during programming, limited interruptions of programming to convey more urgent information, the squeezed back and simultaneous display of both streams (weather and regular programming) of information, and continuous coverage that pre-empts programming in cases of the most threatening weather.

NBC 13 HD serves a very large geographic area. Sometimes life-threatening weather in a particular location prompts us to interrupt programming to deliver important information to viewers in that area. Although threatening weather is not immediately upon some other areas, we must serve the needs of those in harms way. At times, this inconveniences viewers who are watching a program and who are, at that moment, not under direct threat from severe weather.

This happened over the weekend. The afternoon of Saturday, May 2, 2009, tornado warnings prompted us to pre-empt coverage of some pre-race and post-race interviews and activities surrounding the running of the Kentucky Derby. That same evening, as the severe weather moved across the viewing area, other programming was pre-empted. On Sunday, May 3, 2009, tornado warnings also prompted pre-emption of an NHL playoff game.

Providing interesting and popular sports and entertainment programming to viewers is an important part of our mission. We appreciate viewers who be tuned to NBC 13 HD to watch the Kentucky Derby, the NHL playoff game, and other programming. We apologize to viewers who were inconvenienced in their desire to watch these programs during the periods of severe weather.

We want to let you know that every effort is made to balance the need to protect life and property and minimize interruption of regularly scheduled programs.

We appreciate your understanding.

We appreciate your viewership.

Sincerely,

Gene Kirkconnel