It is sometimes nice to have a forum where you can voice your opinion. Today I am going to take advantage of it.

This morning, as forecaster are reviewing forecast models, there is some discrepancies in the amounts of snowfall that could be experienced here in the KRVN listening area. There are several reasons for this, and none of them are the fault of forecasters.  Moisture content, wind and temperatures changing in a storm this size will all be major factors in just how bad this gets.  National Weather is doing an exceptional job in relaying information as they get it and decipher it. A great job by NWS North Platte in creating the multi-media explanation this morning, by the way.

Now, on to my complaint.

This morning, contacting several responders, agencies and partners we have has been frustrating at best. With a very real possibility of seeing up to 18" of snow and high winds, you can imagine how concerned we are with our vehicles out on the road reporting. Now, this morning, NWS began the day with APPROXIMATELY 10 to 12 inches expected in the area of Central Nebraska. They clearly stated that as moisture content changed, this could also change. They also have stated that winds are expected to be up to 30 MPH.

Here is how this has translated to the "street" level...

The folks we are talking to heard "10". That's all.

People, forecasting is not something that the folks at National Weather Service do as a hobby. Every few hours, readings are taken, elements are examined, thermo-dynamics are studied and THEN forecasts are adjusted. When you listen to a forecast for 30 seconds on the radio or television, you are getting a VERY SHORT summary of a very long process.  For those of you already saying that National Weather Service has said "only 10 inches", you are sadly mistaken. If you take the time to read the forecast discussions, follow along with the multimedia presentations, look at the forecast models and actually TAKE THE TIME, you will see that snowfall expectations have not changed and that with wind as a major factor, we will experience drifting snow that will make holiday travel near impossible.

We've already been told this morning to not make a big deal out of this storm by several people this morning. Okay, we won't. We'll let Mother Nature do it 'cause she is in a BAD mood.

If you are listening to sporadic summarized reports and only half-listening, you'll hear "at least 10 inches". If you would like to understand more, you will have to invest a little more of your energy and time. Once you do that, I think you will come to the same conclusion we have: prepare for the worst, adjust holiday plans if possible, make sure you have supplies on hand to last through Friday, check on your neighbors and get ready for a rough couple of days.

Ignorance is not bliss, you just die with a smile on your face. Please do not take this storm lightly. We push education all year long, and it is very worrisome that a majority of those we have spoken with this morning have chosen to see this as just another snowstorm and nothing to be worried about.