Jeff Berardelli has been named chief meteorologist for Tampa NBC affiliate WFLA.
Berardelli comes from CBS News in New York, where he worked as a meteorologist and reported on climate stories. He’s no stranger to Florida, though, and worked in Florida for a total of 17 years at stations in Tampa, Miami and West Palm Beach.
WFLA news director Dave Ciliberti said the station is excited to have Berardelli join the team.
“Jeff’s extensive experience forecasting Florida’s severe weather will be a tremendous asset throughout hurricane season to help keep everyone in the Tampa Bay area prepared and safe,” said Ciliberti.
Previously, Berardelli worked at WTSP in Tampa, WFOR in Miami and WPEC in West Palm Beach. In 2018, TVSpy reported he took time off from his job at WPEC to learn more about climate change at Columbia University’s Earth Institute.
“Ever since I can remember I’ve wanted to be a meteorologist and each day I’m incredibly fortunate to live that dream,“ said Berardelli. “This career has enabled me to live in various cities and gain valuable experience, but I’ve always dreamed of returning to the community where I feel most at home—the Tampa Bay area. Today I am overjoyed to finally have the opportunity to bring my experience back home and help guide our News Channel 8 community through future hurricane seasons.”
He starts on Jan. 15, 2022.