by Michelle Delaney, South Lake Tablet
Joel Mathis has served as a dedicated weather spotter since 1998, a role that began with a life-changing experience. While living in Osceola County that year, an F5 tornado tore through the area just eight miles from his home. The devastating storm claimed lives and caused severe damage, leaving a lasting impression on Mathis. He recalls realizing that few forces on Earth affect everyone the way weather does, inspiring him to keep a closer watch on the skies.
Today, Mathis reports daily temperatures and rainfall amounts to FOX 35’s Storm Team, helping meteorologists compile accurate records and averages. When storms develop in the Clermont area, he provides real-time updates to the team, offering on-the-ground observations that can help warn residents of potential dangers and track the projected path of severe systems.
Recently he was interviewed by Fox 35 meteorologist Brooks Garner. Keep an eye out for the interview expected to come this month.
Equipped with a Nikon digital camera, drone technology for aerial shots and video, and an AcuRite weather station, Mathis monitors wind speed, temperature, humidity, wind direction, and rainfall totals by the day, month, and year. His system also includes a lightning indicator, alerting him to strikes in the area and their distance. “I enjoy having the ability to know what’s going on in the atmosphere around me at any given moment,” he explains.
Although passionate about observing weather, Mathis is quick to clarify that he does not chase storms. Instead, he focuses on careful observation and reporting before, during, and after weather events. “Lightning can strike up to 10 miles away, even under blue skies,” he notes. His personal motto is: “When you hear it, fear it!”
Neighbors often stop to ask Mathis for updates, with the familiar question: “Any rain today?” Many find it exciting that their community has a direct link to FOX 35 through his work.
For those interested in becoming weather spotters, Mathis offers this advice: “Reach out to your local weather team and let them know you have a weather station and want to assist. Always stay safe while observing, learn all you can about weather patterns and cloud formations, and enjoy this phenomenon we call weather.”
Mathis continues to share his reports, photographs, and drone footage, giving Clermont residents and Central Florida viewers a closer look at the ever-changing skies above.
