News Summary
The Jacksonville City Council plans to honor Chief Meteorologist Tim Deegan for his distinguished 43-year career in meteorology ahead of his retirement. A resolution celebrating his scientific contributions and community trust will be introduced during the council meeting. Deegan, who’s been with First Coast News since 1982, has earned accolades for forecasting accuracy and community involvement. His successor, Lewis Turner, is set to take over the chief meteorologist role. Deegan’s retirement marks the end of an impactful era in local weather reporting.
Jacksonville – The Jacksonville City Council is set to honor the remarkable 43-year meteorological career of Chief Meteorologist Tim Deegan ahead of his retirement. A resolution commending Deegan for his dedicated service will be introduced by Councilman Rahman Johnson and Councilman Matt Carlucci during the upcoming council meeting on Tuesday. The resolution highlights Deegan’s scientific excellence and the trust he has built within the community throughout his tenure.
If passed, the resolution will be discussed at the city council meeting, marking a significant moment for Deegan, who has served Jacksonville as a meteorologist since 1982. He began his career at the young age of 22 and quickly garnered a reputation for his accuracy and dedication. Four years later, he joined First Coast News as the morning show meteorologist, eventually being promoted to chief meteorologist, a title he has held ever since.
Under Deegan’s guidance, First Coast News received WeatherRate’s recognition as the Most Accurate Weather outlet for five consecutive years, from 2019 to 2024. His commitment to precision in forecasting is well-known, impacting viewers’ decisions and ensuring community safety during severe weather events. Furthermore, Deegan is distinguished as one of the first 100 meteorologists in the U.S. to become an AMS Certified Broadcaster, solidifying his stature within the meteorological community.
Deegan’s extensive career has seen him grow both professionally and personally. He transitioned to First Coast News after working at KRIS in Corpus Christi, Texas, and KBTX in Bryan, Texas, and is a proud graduate of Texas A&M University. His forecasts are often enriched by his personal passion for surfing, providing him with a unique perspective on weather along the coast.
As Tim Deegan prepares for retirement on May 30, 2025, he is actively involved in the transition process by aiding in the identification of his successor. Lewis Turner will take over the chief meteorologist role, expressing excitement and honor at the opportunity to follow in Deegan’s footsteps, who he regards as both a friend and mentor.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Deegan is recognized for his heartfelt community involvement. He is married to Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan, with whom he shares three children and four grandchildren. Together, they work through the Donna Foundation, providing support to those living with breast cancer, further demonstrating their commitment to public service and the well-being of others.
Deegan’s tenure at First Coast News is marked as notable not only because of its longevity but also because of his impact on the community. His retirement will also see Jeannie Blaylock becoming the longest-serving anchor at the station as Deegan’s legacy concludes. Recently, he celebrated his 65th birthday shortly before announcing his retirement.
Throughout his career, Tim Deegan has earned the title of “Dean of Forecasting,” recognized for his dedication to education and public service. The City Council’s resolution is a testament to the impact he has made on Jacksonville, demonstrating the deep-rooted trust and respect he has cultivated over decades.
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Additional Resources
- First Coast News: Tim Deegan Honored
- Wikipedia: Weather Forecasting
- Jacksonville.com: Katie Jeffries Leaving
- Google Search: Tim Deegan
- First Coast News: Deegan to Retire
- Google Scholar: Meteorologist
- Jacksonville.com: Deegan Announces Retirement
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Meteorology
- First Coast News: Lewis Turner Chief Meteorologist
- Google News: First Coast News
