What's happened
A historic blizzard in New England has led the Boston Globe to cancel its Tuesday print for the first time in its 154-year history. Snow and wind made it unsafe for staff to reach the printing plant, with the paper delivering the next edition on Wednesday. The storm set snowfall records and caused widespread disruptions.
What's behind the headline?
The Globe's decision underscores the increasing impact of extreme weather on traditional media operations. While print circulation has declined, the Globe's choice highlights the importance of safety and operational integrity. This event also reflects broader vulnerabilities in infrastructure, especially in regions prone to severe storms. The storm's record snowfall and power outages demonstrate climate variability's tangible effects, which will likely lead to more frequent disruptions in the future. The Globe's move to delay delivery emphasizes the shift towards digital reliance, but also raises questions about the future of print media in extreme weather scenarios. This incident may accelerate investments in resilient infrastructure and digital transformation for news organizations, as they adapt to a changing climate and evolving reader habits. The storm's timing and severity serve as a stark reminder of the need for preparedness and adaptation in the face of climate change, with local communities and industries likely to face similar challenges ahead.
What the papers say
The New York Times reports that the decision was made after the storm created treacherous conditions, with the first-ever cancellation in the paper's history. AP News highlights the storm's record snowfall and the safety concerns for staff reaching the plant, noting that parts of Massachusetts received over 32 inches of snow. The Independent emphasizes the unprecedented nature of the storm and the historic decision by Globe management, contrasting it with past disruptions caused by labor strikes and previous blizzards. Io Dodds from The Independent points out that the storm's severity has led to widespread travel bans, power outages, and flight cancellations, illustrating the storm's broad impact. All sources agree that this event marks a significant moment in the history of the Globe and reflects the growing influence of extreme weather on media operations.
How we got here
The Boston Globe has historically maintained daily print operations since 1872. Severe weather events, including labor strikes in the mid-20th century and past blizzards, have occasionally disrupted production. This storm, however, is unprecedented in its severity, prompting the first-ever decision to halt printing entirely due to safety concerns. The storm affected much of the northeastern US, with record snowfall and widespread power outages, impacting transportation and daily life.
Go deeper
Common question
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Why Did the Boston Globe Cancel Its Print Edition During the Blizzard?
The Boston Globe's decision to halt its print edition amid a historic blizzard marks a significant moment in local news history. With over 32 inches of snow falling and severe weather conditions, the paper prioritized safety over publication for the first time since 1872. This raises questions about how extreme weather impacts traditional newspapers and what it means for the future of print media. Below, we explore the reasons behind this unprecedented move and its broader implications.
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How Does Severe Weather Disrupt News and Business Operations?
Extreme weather events like blizzards and storms can have a major impact on daily news production and business activities. From canceled print editions to disrupted deliveries, weather can cause significant delays and operational challenges. Curious how news outlets and other businesses cope with these disruptions? Below, we explore common questions about weather's impact on daily operations and what measures are taken to stay resilient.
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Is Print Media Becoming Obsolete in the Digital Age?
As digital news continues to dominate, many wonder if traditional print media is on its way out. Recent events, like the Boston Globe's unprecedented decision to cancel print due to a historic blizzard, highlight the vulnerabilities of print newspapers. In this page, we'll explore whether print media is truly becoming obsolete, how extreme weather impacts print production, and how traditional newspapers are adapting to climate challenges and digital competition.
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How Do Extreme Weather Events Affect Local News Coverage?
Extreme weather events like blizzards, hurricanes, and floods can significantly disrupt local news coverage. When storms hit hard, some stories get missed, and news outlets have to prioritize what to cover. Advances in technology are helping news organizations deliver updates even during severe weather. Curious about how these weather events impact what you see in your local news? Here are some common questions and answers to help you understand the connection better.
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How Do Digital News Platforms Stay Operational During Natural Disasters?
During extreme weather events like blizzards and storms, digital news platforms often remain accessible while traditional print media faces disruptions. But how do these online outlets keep running when conditions are so severe? In this page, we explore the resilience of digital news during natural disasters, the benefits they offer in emergencies, and the challenges they face. Keep reading to understand why digital news is crucial when nature strikes.
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How Have Weather Events Historically Disrupted News and Daily Life?
Extreme weather has long impacted how news is delivered and how communities function. From historic storms to blizzards, these events reveal the vulnerabilities of our infrastructure and the lessons we've learned to better prepare for future disruptions. Curious about how past weather events have affected news delivery and daily life? Keep reading to find out more about these powerful natural forces and their lasting impact.
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