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Why did the NWS pause translations for weather alerts?
The NWS paused translations due to a contract lapse with Lilt, the AI company responsible for providing these services. This interruption raised alarms about the potential risks faced by non-English speakers who might miss critical weather alerts during emergencies.
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How does this affect non-English speakers during emergencies?
The pause in translations directly impacts nearly 68 million U.S. residents who speak a language other than English. Without timely translations, these individuals may not receive essential information about severe weather events, putting their safety at risk.
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What measures are being taken to improve communication in extreme weather?
In response to the concerns raised, the NWS has reinstated its contract with Lilt to ensure that translations of weather alerts are available once again. This move aims to enhance communication and ensure that non-English speakers receive life-saving information during extreme weather events.
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Why did the NWS switch to AI for translations?
The NWS transitioned to using AI for translations in late 2023 due to the labor-intensive nature of manual translations. The reliance on AI allows for quicker and more efficient dissemination of weather alerts, which is crucial during emergencies.
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What are the implications of missing weather alerts?
Missing weather alerts can have dire consequences, especially during severe weather events. Non-English speakers who do not receive timely information may be unprepared for dangerous conditions, leading to increased risks to their safety and well-being.
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How can non-English speakers stay informed about weather alerts?
Non-English speakers can stay informed by utilizing community resources, such as local organizations that provide translations, or by accessing multilingual weather apps and websites that offer alerts in various languages.