Justin Hobbs Biography: Award-Winning Meteorologist & Impact Earth Reporter at ABC15 Arizona
Justin Hobbs is currently the Weekend Meteorologist and an Impact Earth reporter at ABC15 Arizona.
He joined the ABC15 team in November 2024 after spending four years working as a meteorologist in Florida.
His passion for weather began in childhood, sparked by a tornado that struck his small hometown of Irvington, Kentucky, in 2002.
Justin Hobbs earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Meteorology from Western Kentucky University.
He holds the Certified Broadcast Meteorologist (CBM) Seal (#947) from the American Meteorological Society.
Before joining ABC15 Arizona, Justin worked as an Emmy award-winning meteorologist at NBC2 (WBBH-TV) in Fort Myers, Florida, starting in January 2022.
He became known for his engaging weather forecasts and inspiring personal story.
Earlier in his career, Justin served as a meteorologist at ABC 7 (WWSB-TV) in Sarasota, Florida, from January 2021 to January 2022.
He also worked at WBKO-TV in Bowling Green, Kentucky, from June 2018 to October 2020, earning awards such as the Kentucky Broadcasters Association Best Weather Anchor award in 2020 and the Associated Press Best Weather Anchor in Kentucky Division II in 2019.
An avid outdoor enthusiast, Justin enjoys hiking, paddleboarding, backcountry camping, and mountain climbing. He has scaled peaks like Mount Olympus in Greece.
His global perspective was shaped by a semester abroad with Semester at Sea, where he visited 13 countries and developed an interest in climate research.
This included studies on ocean tidal fluxes and ice calving during his senior year at Western Kentucky University.
Age:
Justin Hobbs was born on December 18, 1995, making him 29 years old as of 2025. His zodiac sign is Sagittarius. He is of American nationality.
Parents and Siblings:
Justin Hobbs grew up in Irvington, Kentucky, where his passion for weather was ignited by a tornado that narrowly missed his childhood home. This event left a lasting impression on him and sparked his interest in meteorology.
Justin’s parents played a significant role in encouraging him to pursue his passion for weather. They supported his decision to become a meteorologist, even when he initially resisted the idea.
Justin has a sister and is also an uncle to two children, whom he often shares about on his Instagram account. He has not revealed much information about his parents or other family members.
Husband:
Justin Hobbs is married to his husband, Todd Haner. Justin Hobbs, an Emmy Award-winning meteorologist, is married to Dr. Todd Haner. Dr. Haner serves as the Assistant Chief Nursing Officer at Lower Keys Medical Center.
Their Relationship Journey:
- Dating and Engagement: Justin and Todd began their relationship on April 17, 2021, and got engaged on October 17, 2022.
- Pre-Wedding Celebration: Prior to their wedding, they celebrated with close friends in the Smoky Mountains, referring to it as their “last bash before the dash.”
- Wedding Ceremony: The couple tied the knot in Vestmannaeyjar, Iceland, and shared their wedding video on Justin’s Facebook page.
Height, Weight:
Justin Hobbs stands at an average height of 5 feet 9 inches (1.75 meters) and weighs around 155 pounds (70 kilograms).
Career and Background:
Justin earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Meteorology from Western Kentucky University, complementing his studies with minors in broadcasting and Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
His career spans over six years, during which he has reported on various severe weather events, from tornadoes to major hurricanes, while also covering important climate-related topics.
Recognized for his pioneering use of augmented reality in weather storytelling, he is a three-time Emmy Award-winning meteorologist and journalist.
WXBC 104.3 FM (Hardinsburg, Kentucky)
Justin Hobbs began his broadcasting journey as a DJ broadcaster at WXBC 104.3 FM.
From June 2012 to August 2014, he developed his communication skills and gained valuable experience in the broadcasting field.
This role was instrumental in shaping his career path, providing a foundation for his future roles in meteorology.
News Channel 12
Justin transitioned to a weather anchor role at News Channel 12 from August 2016 to August 2017.
During his time there, he focused on delivering weather forecasts and gaining practical experience in meteorology.
This position helped him build a solid foundation for his future endeavors in the field.
WBKO News (Bowling Green, Kentucky)
At WBKO News, Justin served as a meteorologist from June 2018 to October 2020.
He reported on various weather events and honed his skills in forecasting and on-air presentation.
His work at WBKO earned him recognition and established him as a reliable weather professional.
WWSB-TV, ABC 7 (Sarasota, Florida)
In January 2021, Justin joined WWSB-TV, ABC 7, as a meteorologist.
During his time there until January 2022, he covered weather in Florida, a region known for its dynamic and often severe weather patterns.
This experience was crucial in expanding his expertise in meteorology and reporting on significant weather events.
WBBH-TV, NBC2 (Fort Myers, Florida)
Justin continued his career at WBBH-TV, NBC2, starting in January 2022.
As part of the First Alert Weather team, he covered severe weather events, including hurricanes and tropical storms, until November 2024.
His innovative use of augmented reality in weather storytelling set him apart as a forward-thinking meteorologist.
ABC15 Arizona
In November 2024, Justin joined ABC15 Arizona as the Weekend Meteorologist and Impact Earth reporter.
In this role, he combines his passion for meteorology with his dedication to environmental reporting.
His work continues to be recognized for its accuracy, innovation, and impact on the community.
Justin Hobbs’ career trajectory showcases his dedication to meteorology and his continuous efforts to innovate and improve weather reporting.
His journey from a small-town DJ to an Emmy Award-winning meteorologist is a testament to his hard work and passion for weather.
Justin Hobbs has covered a wide range of notable weather events throughout his career. Here are some highlights:
- Tornado Outbreaks: Reports on tornado events, driven by personal experience.
- Hurricane Coverage: Covered major hurricanes, using augmented reality for clarity.
- Severe Weather Events: Reported on thunderstorms, flash floods, and winter storms.
- Climate-Related Topics: Focused on climate change and environmental conservation.
- Innovative Storytelling: Pioneered the use of augmented reality in weather reports, earning three Emmy Awards.
Awards and Recognitions
Justin Hobbs has received several awards and recognitions throughout his career, highlighting his dedication and excellence in meteorology:
- Emmy Awards: Justin is a three-time Emmy Award-winning meteorologist. These awards recognize his outstanding work in weather reporting and his innovative use of augmented reality in weather storytelling.
- Certified Broadcast Meteorologist Seal: He holds the Certified Broadcast Meteorologist (CBM) Seal from the American Meteorological Society. This certification is a mark of distinction and credibility in the field of broadcast meteorology.
- Innovative Weather Storytelling: Justin is recognized for his pioneering use of augmented reality in weather reporting. This innovative approach has set him apart as a forward-thinking meteorologist and has earned him accolades in the industry.
Justin Hobbs works alongside a talented team at ABC15 Arizona. Some of his notable colleagues include:
- Amber Sullins: Chief Meteorologist at ABC15 Arizona, known for her extensive experience and expertise in weather forecasting.
- Jorge Torres: Meteorologist at ABC15 Arizona, who brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for weather reporting.
- Iris Hermosillo: Morning Meteorologist at ABC15 Arizona, recognized for her engaging and informative weather updates.
- Nick Ciletti: Morning Anchor at ABC15 Arizona, recognized for his engaging and informative news delivery.
- Steve Irvin: News Anchor at ABC15 Arizona, known for his in-depth reporting and anchoring skills.
These colleagues, along with Justin, form a dynamic team dedicated to providing accurate and timely news and weather information to their viewers.
Net Worth and Salary:
Specific details about Justin Hobbs’ net worth and salary are not publicly disclosed. However, according to an article from 2024, he earned an annual salary of $200,000 and had an estimated net worth of $2 million. Please note that these figures may have changed since then.
Is Meteorologist Justin Hobbs Married?
Justin Hobbs is married to his husband, Todd Haner. Todd is the Assistant Chief Nursing Officer at Lower Keys Medical Center.
They began dating on April 17, 2021, got engaged on October 17, 2022, and married in Vestmannaeyjar, Iceland. Justin is openly gay and an avid supporter of the LGBTQ community.
How Old Is Meteorologist Justin Hobbs?
Justin Hobbs is 29 years old. He was born on December 18, 1995.
What happened to Justin Hobbs hand?
Justin Hobbs lost his right hand in a tragic accident.
While riding his bike, he felt lightheaded and dizzy, leading to a fall that severely injured his hand.
Despite the challenges, Justin has adapted remarkably well and continues to excel in his career.
Where Is Meteorologist Justin Hobbs Working?
Justin Hobbs is currently working as a meteorologist at WBBH-TV, NBC2 in Fort Myers, Florida. He joined the NBC2 First Alert Weather team in January 2022.
In his role, Justin provides weather forecasts, reports on severe weather events, and uses innovative techniques like augmented reality to enhance weather storytelling.
Justin Hobbs is active on social media platforms. You can follow him on Instagram at @yourwxjustin and on Facebook at Meteorologist Justin Hobbs.
On these platforms, he shares weather updates, personal adventures, and insights into his professional journey.
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