Social Media’s Weatherman

This morning, severe weather including high winds and tornados are passing through central Indiana.  Local TV has, of course, jumped on the opportunity to show off their high priced radar toys.  Radio, for the most part, will quickly fit the latest information over the intro to a Lady Gaga song (except when the EAS requires longer interruptions).  But, some of the best local weather coverage will come – surprise – on the web.

Paul Poteet, a well respected national meteorologist and veteran of Indianapolis TV & Radio, is providing real-time updates via his Twitter/Facebook – including quick replies to specific local weather questions from his fans.  His website features the latest forecast, warnings, radar, and his podcast.

If you want to see an example of how social media can provide critical information to specific users immediately and on demand, check out what Paul’s doing … and remember, the “future” of content and information delivery is here now!  In fact, as I’m typing this post, I just saw a tweet from @StephMc5 who says “@paulpoteet I’m in my car and keeping an eye on your tweets to keep me informed! Thank you for the updates!!”  Notice she’s not listening to Paul’s reports on WZPL’s Smiley Morning Show – she’s reading his posts on her phone.  Welcome to 2010.

Paul Poteet:  Twitter | Facebook | Web & Podcast | YouTube