KRGV's Tim Smith named 2026 National Weatherperson of the Year

KRGV 5 Rio Grande Valley News Chief Meteorologist Tim Smith earns prestigious national award.

Feb. 5, 2026 at 1:47am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

KRGV 5 Rio Grande Valley News Chief Meteorologist Tim Smith has been named the 2026 FLASH National Weatherperson of the Year after receiving nearly 100,000 votes, the highest total in the award's history. Smith has been with the station for over 40 years and is known for his commitment to keeping the community informed and prepared for weather events.

Why it matters

The FLASH National Weatherperson of the Year Award is a prestigious honor that recognizes excellence in weather forecasting and community service. Smith's win highlights the Rio Grande Valley's strong local news presence and the importance of trusted meteorologists in keeping communities safe.

The details

Smith earned the 2026 FLASH National Weatherperson of the Year award after a nationwide voting period that saw nearly 100,000 votes cast for him, the highest total in the award's history. Previous winners have included notable meteorologists like William (Bill) Read, Ginger Zee, and Jim Cantore.

  • The FLASH National Weatherperson of the Year Award is presented annually on February 5, the birthday of pioneering weather observer John Jeffries.
  • Smith has been the Chief Meteorologist at KRGV 5 Rio Grande Valley News for over 40 years.

The players

Tim Smith

Chief Meteorologist at KRGV 5 Rio Grande Valley News, winner of the 2026 FLASH National Weatherperson of the Year Award.

John Kittleman

General Manager of KRGV 5 Rio Grande Valley News.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This is a huge honor for the whole valley. It has my name on there, but this is about everyone who voted.”

— Tim Smith, Chief Meteorologist (KRGV 5 Rio Grande Valley News)

“I am so pleased that Tim Smith has been named Weather Person of the Year presented by FLASH. Tim's energy is boundless, he brings a level of excellence to everything he does. Our viewers have seen for decades his commitment to keep our community informed and prepared for whatever weather event might be headed our way. But equally important, he works tirelessly to serve our community — whether it is warm jackets for those in need or a toy for a child in the hospital. Tim is one of a kind!”

— John Kittleman, General Manager (KRGV 5 Rio Grande Valley News)

What’s next

The FLASH National Weatherperson of the Year Award will be presented to Tim Smith on February 5, 2026, National Weatherperson's Day.

The takeaway

Tim Smith's recognition as the 2026 FLASH National Weatherperson of the Year underscores the vital role that trusted local meteorologists play in keeping communities informed and prepared for weather events. His decades of service and commitment to the Rio Grande Valley have earned him this prestigious national honor.