GeneralLast Updated on 5 days by General
Tom Messner, the First Warning Chief Meteorologist, has been an integral part of NBC5 since 1990, where he’s been forecasting and reporting on severe weather events for the Champlain Valley and beyond.
Tom’s educational journey began with a degree in Business Economics from the College of Wooster in Ohio. He continued his academic pursuits by studying meteorology at the State University of New York and Mississippi State. His dedication to the field is underlined by his membership in both the National Weather Association and the American Meteorological Society.
Tom holds the distinction of being one of the first meteorologists in the country to earn the title of Certified Broadcast Meteorologist from the AMS, a testament to his knowledge and expertise.
In the Champlain Valley, Tom’s weather forecasts have become a perennial favorite, offering essential information to the local community. His forecasts are not limited to television; they can also be heard on various local radio stations, including WOKO, WKOL, WJOY, WIZN, and The Buzz.
Tom’s contributions to meteorology have earned him several accolades. In 2016, he was honored with an induction into the Vermont Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame. He has also received recognition from the Associated Press and, notably, from loyal viewers who have consistently named him the Best Meteorologist in the Seven Days readers’ choice awards.
Tom’s influence extends beyond the broadcast, as he has been featured on national platforms, including The TODAY Show, LIVE with Regis & Kelly, The Weather Channel, and MSNBC.
He is also deeply committed to education and community engagement. Tom has been visiting schools for years, sharing his knowledge about weather with thousands of students. He frequently speaks at community organizations and has served as a commencement speaker for high schools. Additionally, he has been a motivational speaker for the United Way and local business groups.
Tom’s philanthropic endeavors reflect his dedication to making a positive impact in the community. He has worked with various organizations, including the Chittenden Emergency Food Shelf, American Red Cross, United Way, Ronald McDonald House, American Heart Association, Share with a Hungry Neighbor, D.A.R.E, Make-a-Wish, and the Alzheimer’s Association.
Despite traveling to cover extreme weather events in different parts of the country, Tom has found a home on the shores of Lake Champlain with his family.
You can catch Tom’s NBC5 First Alert Weather forecasts on a regular schedule, including at 5 p.m., 5:30 p.m., 6 p.m., and 11 p.m. on NBC5, and at 10 p.m. on The Valley CW. Tom Messner’s dedication to delivering accurate and timely weather forecasts has made him a trusted figure in the Champlain Valley and beyond.