FLASH Honors Tim Smith as 2026 National Weatherperson of the Year for Community Impact

A Prestigious Recognition for Tim Smith

The Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH) recently honored Tim Smith, the Chief Meteorologist at KRGV-TV, as the 2026 National Weatherperson of the Year. This award aims to acknowledge individuals who showcase exceptional achievement in weather communication, community service, and leadership in disaster resilience. It has been awarded since 2014 and has distinguished many prominent figures in the realm of meteorology.

Tim Smith has become a trusted name for the people of South Texas, providing clear, accurate, and calm guidance through various weather events, including hurricanes, floods, and extreme winters. His unique ability to convey complex meteorological data into understandable actions has empowered many generations to protect their families and homes effectively.

In addition to his on-screen presence, Tim is a well-respected figure in the meteorological community at a national level. He co-founded the National Tropical Weather Conference—a significant annual event that gathers emergency managers, broadcast meteorologists, and scientists to discuss best practices in forecasting and preparedness. This initiative reflects Tim's commitment to fostering collaboration and advancing the field of meteorology to better serve the community.

FLASH President and CEO, Leslie Chapman-Henderson, emphasized, "Tim exemplifies everything the National Weatherperson of the Year award stands for. He uses his platform to educate and inspire action, significantly strengthening his community's resilience against natural disasters." His ongoing dedication leaves a legacy that goes beyond mere broadcasting; he builds trust and leadership through his sustained community involvement.

With a career at KRGV-TV spanning over four decades, Tim has held the position of Chief Meteorologist since 1983. His academic credentials include a degree from Indiana University, along with a broadcast meteorology certification from Mississippi State University. Viewers have consistently lauded his commitment to community service, with his efforts ranging from educational outreach to providing warm clothing for those in need.

John Kittleman, General Manager of KRGV-TV, expressed pride in Tim's recognition, stating, "Tim's energy is boundless. He brings a level of excellence to everything, dedicating his efforts not only to weather-related news but also to his community's social causes. This honor is well-deserved and highlights his unwavering commitment over the years."

Tim's selection was part of a larger pool of candidates; he was chosen from a list of five outstanding individuals and teams who demonstrated excellence across various facets of broadcast meteorology and disaster preparedness. The other finalists this year included notable figures such as:

- Tanya Brown-Giammanco, PhD, an influential figure in disaster studies at NIST,
- Brooks Garner from FOX 35 Orlando,
- The National Weather Service IMet Team, known for their wildfire support,
- Timothy P. Marshall, a forensic engineer and meteorologist at Haag.

Each finalist exemplifies the crucial role that meteorologists play in safeguarding families and facilitating the dissemination of critical weather-related information, highlighting the continuous efforts needed to minimize damage from weather-related disasters.

In conjunction with National Weatherperson's Day, celebrated on February 5, Tim Smith’s legacy will be further commemorated at events throughout the year, culminating in a keynote address during the National Disaster Resilience Conference presented by FLASH in 2026.

About FLASH
The Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH) is a leading nonprofit organization devoted to enhancing home security and disaster readiness across the country. Its collaborative efforts involve over 100 varied organizations aimed at creating a disaster-resilient America. FLASH emphasizes the importance of community preparedness through initiatives like the No Code. No Confidence. program, which offers critical resources for understanding local building codes. By fostering public awareness, FLASH continues to advocate for safety and resilience in the face of natural disasters.