Aquí la Tierra: RTVE Amplía Programa por Temporal y Cancela Cine de Barrio

A shift in weather conditions is prompting a change to the Saturday programming lineup on La 1. RTVE has decided to replace its long-standing Cine de barrio with a special, expanded edition of Aquí la tierra, increasing its runtime from a typical half-hour to two hours, beginning this Saturday, February 7th.

Prioritizing Real-Time Information

The extended Aquí la tierra broadcast will begin at 19:05 hours, taking over a time slot traditionally dedicated to classic Spanish cinema. Jacob Petrus and his team will provide extensive coverage of the severe weather impacting much of the country, including live connections from affected areas.

From Environmental Focus to Public Service

While initially conceived as a program focused on environmental and meteorological topics, Aquí la tierra has evolved to provide real-time public service information, particularly during periods of climatic risk. This Saturday’s edition represents a further step in that direction, signaling full support from the network for a program that has become a reliable resource.

Comprehensive Coverage Planned

Over the two-hour broadcast, the program will address the development of storms, alerts issued by the AEMET, the hydrological situation, recent evacuations, and forecasts for a new front expected to particularly impact the southern Iberian Peninsula. The program will combine meteorological analysis, on-the-ground reporting, and economic context, with a focus on the impact on the primary sector.

Reinforcing a Key Communicator

This decision also strengthens the role of Jacob Petrus as a key communicator for the network on climate matters. As a geographer and meteorologist, Petrus will lead the special broadcast, offering insights beyond weather forecasting, including an examination of the structural consequences of rainfall and flooding.

Aquí la tierra has been on the air for over a decade and is currently experiencing strong viewership. The program’s success—with its daily edition achieving a 13.4% share and the Sunday version leading with 12%—explains why the network is willing to utilize it in traditionally protected time slots. Cine de barrio typically achieves a share of around 10%, suggesting a potential audience increase with the change.

A Symbolic Shift in Priorities

The temporary removal of Cine de barrio is more than just a programming adjustment; it’s a symbolic gesture. The classic film program represents archival television, audiovisual memory, and a slower pace of consumption, contrasting with the urgency of live reporting. By replacing it, RTVE is demonstrating that informing and supporting the audience in real-time is the priority during emergencies.

What Could Happen Next

If the expanded edition of Aquí la tierra proves successful in attracting a larger audience during this weather event, RTVE could consider similar expansions in the future during other times of national emergency. We see also possible that the network may explore ways to integrate more real-time reporting into the program’s regular format. The network may also continue to adjust its programming based on current events.

Frequently Asked Questions

What program is replacing Cine de barrio?

Aquí la tierra is replacing Cine de barrio for a special, expanded edition this Saturday, February 7th.

How long will the special edition of Aquí la tierra last?

The special edition of Aquí la tierra will last for two hours, beginning at 19:05 hours.

What will Aquí la tierra cover during the special broadcast?

The program will cover the evolution of storms, alerts from AEMET, the hydrological situation, evacuations, and forecasts, with a focus on the impact on the primary sector.

As weather patterns become increasingly unpredictable, how do you think public broadcasting should balance scheduled programming with the need to provide timely information during emergencies?