A popular Southwest Florida meteorologist known for his witty weather memes is out at WINK News.
Matt Devitt announced Jan. 10 that he’s no longer employed with the Fort Myers-based television station. People praised Devitt especially his work during Hurricane Ian in 2022, with many saying he kept them calm and informed as it made landfall in Lee County.
“LIFE UPDATE: After 10 years, my time with WINK News has come to an end after being let go from my role as Chief Meteorologist on Thursday,” he posted on Facebook and his other social media.
“This decision was not one that I expected or agreed with and was not given the opportunity to say goodbye on-air. It was a complete shock to me, my family and fellow coworkers.”
WINK has not yet released a statement and TV station officials were unavailable for comment Jan. 11.
Social media blows up after Devitt firing
Devitt must be a bit overwhelmed with the outpouring of love and support.
His Facebook post announcing he was let go at WINK had more than 24,000 comments and 64,000-plus reactions as of noon Jan. 11.
“We should all write to Wink….best damn weatherman in the land?” wrote Darlene Conard.
“The entire viewing audience is livid and shocked! Wink will NEVER be the same,” commented Sherry Habelow Ballou.
“Your voice was literally the thing that kept us calm during Hurricane Ian. When we woke up the next morning and Wink was off the air my wife and I literally said ‘Omg I hope Matt is okay,’ ” said Liz Affeldt-Bailey.
“I’m so appalled that this was handled this way. We wish you the best as you’re a fantastic meteorologist who clearly loves his community.”
Someone even began a petition to keep him at WINK.
“Matt Devitt’s departure from Wink Weather has left a void that is hard to fill,” the petition said at change.org. “His expertise and accessible communication style were unmatched — qualities that made him a household name and the go-to person for weather forecasts in our community.”
Devitt shared funny weather memes
His popularity extended beyond Southwest Florida, especially for his funny memes about Sunshine State weather.
Devitt’s Facebook page had more than 1.2 million followers, and his Instagram and X social media accounts were also highly popular.
“Serving our Southwest Florida community for the past decade has been an honor and privilege, especially through Hurricanes Irma, Ian, Helene and Milton,” Devitt wrote on Facebook.
“I always gave you everything I had with one goal in mind: keeping you safe and informed without the hype. While this chapter ended differently than I hoped, I wish WINK News, along with my previous coworkers and weather team, the best.
“I will still be providing weather updates on this page, it just won’t be on TV anymore. My new Facebook name is being changed to Matt Devitt Weather, which you’ll see shortly. In addition to sending Facebook messages, you are always welcome to email me at MattDevittWX@gmail.com.
“I’m taking a brief pause professionally to reset and be with my family. I’ve missed them and I’m looking forward to every minute. I’ll keep you all updated on what’s next.
“Thank you to everyone who has reached out with support, it has meant more to me than you know.”
Dave Osborn is the regional features editor of the Naples Daily News and The News-Press. Contact him at dosborn@usatodayco.com and follow him on Instagram @lacrossewriter.
This article originally appeared on Fort Myers News-Press: ‘Livid and shocked!’ Florida meteorologist firing blows up social
Reporting by Dave Osborn, Fort Myers News-Press & Naples Daily News / Fort Myers News-Press
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
