ATLANTA -- Channel 2 Action News made Georgia television history Wednesday, flipping the switch to High Definition with Channel 2 Action News at Noon.

From now on, all Channel 2 newscasts will be televised in HDTV.

Georgians watching HDTV will enjoy a startling change from how they’ve watched and listened to local news. They will even see an improved picture watching on their standard definition set.

Two key parts to making this a Georgia first lie in the station’s weather radar, Early Warning Doppler 2 Network and News Chopper 2. Both share HDTV technology producing a stunning weather presentation and incredible detailed aerial images.

In order to make ready for the new technology, miles of new fiber had to be run through the station. A new set and news graphics also debuted with the switch to HDTV.

“We are very excited to take this big leap into the future of television. We’re committed to giving our viewers the absolute best local news viewing experience possible,” said Bill Hoffman, Vice President and General Manager of WSB-TV.

“HD video enhances our overall news coverage, adding the highest quality video to the already high quality news and weather coverage,” added Marian Pittman, News Director.

Built into a brand new weather set, the High Definition Doppler radar provides the most accurate model of what’s actually happening in severe weather.

“The power of our HD weather computers almost boggles the mind,” states Chief Meteorologist Glenn Burns. “We can see lightning striking in storms as it happens. We can drill into storms from every angle, slice them apart and verify the severity of what’s happening inside the cloud wall. It’s incredibly fast and accurate, all to give us a leg up on warning your family before trouble strikes."

“It is the biggest leap in radar technology since the invention of the weather radar,” added Channel 2 Meteorologist David Chandley.

Channel 2 already broadcasts ABC programs in High Definition. GMA, The View, along with hit prime time shows like Desperate Housewives, Grey’s Anatomy, and Lost join Saturday Night College Football in HDTV. And soon to come: NASCAR on ABC in 2007.