PressEthic

It snowed.

How accurate was the media when it came to predicting the snowfall? A < href= http://philadelphiaweather.blogspot.com/>blog in Philadelphia has decided to hold the The 2005-2006 Philadelphia Winter Forecast Challenge.

Starting November 1st, each low pressure system that impacts our area with a snow potential will be graded for accuracy by me.

Since forecasts DO often change, I will use the forecast that is closest to but not within 12 hours before the event begins. It will either be the AM forecast or the late evening forecast.

I will grade Channels 3, 6, 10, 29, and the NWS forecasts for PHILADELPHIA only and snow and rain measurements will be based on those taken at Philadelphia International Airport. For point of reference for the out-of-towners, Channel 6 in Philadelphia uses Accuweather and, for the most part, follows the forecast lock, stock, and barrel straight outta State College.

Snow amounts will be rounded to the nearest inch (2.4 going to 2 and 3.6 going to 4, for example). Points are given based on inaccuracy of forecast (how much and when it occurs). The total score of each event will be added and tracked throughout the winter season through March 31st. The lowest score wins.

This strikes me as a very interesting – and fun – way to keep tabs on the media. After all, the premise of this challenge is that every station claims to have the most accurate weather reports. This way, these claims can be tested.

The result? So far, the National Weather Service is doing the best, followed by a tie between the CBS and Fox affiliates.

This is just an example of how the New Media can keep the traditional media accountable. By spring, viewers will know which network can truly claim to be the most accurate in weather forecasting.