Speaker Spotlight - James Spann

We are thrilled to announce that James Spann, Chief Meteorologist at the ABC affiliate in Birmingham, will be delivering the keynote address at the Rocket City Weather Festival. With an impressive 46-year career in meteorology, James Spann has become one of the most trusted and influential weather personalities in the Southeast. As an AMS Certified Broadcast Meteorologist (CBM 33), he has built a reputation for his expertise, dedication, and ability to communicate complex weather phenomena in an accessible way.

Spann's career includes numerous accolades and awards, such as the prestigious National Weather Association Broadcaster of the Year and the American Meteorological Society's Excellence in Science Journalism award. He is widely known for his exceptional coverage of severe weather, particularly during Alabama’s tornado outbreaks, where his clear and concise communication has saved countless lives. Spann is also a recognized authority in meteorological education, having taught future meteorologists through various programs.

As a social media powerhouse with a combined following of over 2 million across all platforms, Spann is able to reach and educate audiences in real-time, especially during severe weather events. His dedication to providing timely, accurate, and life-saving information has made him an indispensable resource during storms and emergencies. Beyond his weather forecasts, he is also an advocate for community engagement and public safety, regularly speaking at schools, universities, and professional organizations.

James Spann’s passion for weather, coupled with his unwavering commitment to public service, makes him a standout figure in broadcast meteorology, and we are honored to have him as our keynote speaker at this year’s Rocket City Weather Festival.

Join us for Spann's keynote address, "Severe Weather Communication - Where Do We Go From Here?"