Meteorologist Clay Smith returns to Local 3’s storm warning team

Meteorologist Clay Smith has rejoined Local 3’s storm warning team

Meteorologist Clay Smith has returned to the Local 3 Storm Alert Team. Clay Smith is back on duty full-time as a weekday meteorologist, providing daily forecasts and tracking severe weather with the Local 3 Storm Alert Team.

Mr Smith joined the team as a weekend meteorologist and reporter in June 2021. After taking a year to explore a career outside of broadcasting, he has returned to his love of weather forecasting.

“We are excited to welcome Clay back to the Local 3 family and are grateful for his expertise and knowledge of our area’s unique landscape and weather patterns,” said Megan Roberts, Local 3 news director.

“Clay Smith is trusted and respected by Local 3 viewers,” said Callie Starnes, President and CEO of Local 3. “He is a true asset to our community, helping viewers stay weather-ready on a daily basis and prepare for impending storms.”

Chief Meteorologist David Karnes said he was excited to have Mr Smith back. “Clay knows the weather, loves this community and is a lot of fun to work with.”

“I’m happy to call the Tennessee Valley home,” said Mr. Smith, who was born and raised in Inman, SC. ​​He has been married to his high school sweetheart, Jordan, since 2021. They have two cats (Butters and Ozzy) and are getting ready to meet their son, Dawson, in September. Outside of work, Clay enjoys watching Gamecock football, spending time with friends and family, and hitting the pickleball court.

Before joining Local 3, Mr. Smith began his career as a meteorologist at The Delta News in Greenville, Mississippi, where he worked as a morning meteorologist. His most memorable moment at The Delta News was covering Hurricane Laura in August 2020.

Mr. Smith’s return coincides with the recent departures of Alison Pryor, who chose a new career path after her marriage, and Cedric Haynes, who wanted to explore other opportunities outside of Chattanooga.

Local 3 will announce another member of the Storm Alert Team in the coming days.