With KPIX’s introduction of augmented and virtual reality images of the Bay Area’s microclimates, weather forecasts are reaching a new state-of-the-art level.
The network will launch its new weather set on September 1st, immersing viewers in a 3D experience while they learn more about the weather in their local areas.
In order to better match with its sister station KPIX, Channel 44 Cable 12 changes its identity from KBCW to KPIX+ on September 1. The first broadcasts utilizing the new weather tools will be on the new Primetime Edition of the news on KPIX+ 44 Cable 12 at 8 and 9 p.m., and subsequently on KPIX/CBS News Bay Area newscasts.
The station is celebrating its 75th year of broadcasting while introducing the new weather set and AR/VR predictions. On December 22, 1948, KPIX went on the air, becoming Northern California’s first television station.
KPIX general manager Scott Warren stated, “We are very happy and honored to announce that KPIX and KPIX+ will introduce cutting-edge virtual reality production to our newscasts for our 75th anniversary. These incredible, gorgeous, realistic settings will put our meteorologists right in the thick of their forecasts and significantly enhance our storytelling.
These revolutionary weather presentations will initially air on the 8 and 9 p.m. newscasts from meteorologists Paul Heggen and Darren Peck. The AR/VR weather forecasts will be provided by meteorologist Jessica Burch on the CBS News Morning Edition, which airs from 7 to 9 a.m., as well as on the brand-new KPIX+ 44 Cable 12.
But that’s not how the weather works. With the help of this [AR/VR weather set], we can visualize that much more effectively.
According to Warren, we wanted to create an immersive set that would allow spectators to experience the weather. “Wow, do we tell the weather story in a way that is really compelling, but also explains exactly what’s going on visually?” was the initial question at the forefront of everything.
This cutting-edge technology, which utilizes breakthroughs originally made feasible by the Unreal software that currently powers much of the world’s video games, is a first for local television news.
