A well-known Southwest Florida meteorologist known for his witty weather memes appears on WINK News.
Matt Devitt announced Jan. 10 that he was no longer employed by the Fort Myers-based television station. People praised DeWitt, especially for his work during Hurricane Ian in 2022, with many saying he kept them calm and informed when Hurricane Ian made landfall in Lee County.
“Life update: After 10 years, my job at WINK News is over and I was relieved of my duties as chief meteorologist on Thursday,” he posted on Facebook and other social media.
“This decision was not one I expected or agreed to, and there was no opportunity to say goodbye on air. This is a complete shock to me, my family and colleagues.”
WINK officials were unavailable for comment on Jan. 11.
Social media exploded after DeWitt was fired
DeWitt must have been a little overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support.
As of early November, his Facebook post announcing WINK’s firing had more than 22,500 comments and more than 60,000 replies.
“Should we all write to Wink…the best damn weatherman in the land?” Darlene Conard wrote.
“The entire audience is outraged and shocked! Wink will never be the same,” commented Sherry Habelow Ballou.
“Your voice really kept us calm during Hurricane Ian. When we woke up the next morning and Wink was off the air, my wife and I literally said ‘Oh my gosh, I hope Matt is okay,'” Liz Arfield-Bailey said.
“I’m absolutely shocked at the way this was handled. We wish you the best because you’re an excellent meteorologist who clearly loves his community.”
DeWitt shares funny weather meme
His popularity extends beyond Southwest Florida, especially for his funny memes about the Sunshine State’s weather.
DeWitt’s Facebook page has over 1.2 million followers, and his Instagram and X social media accounts are also very popular.
“It has been an honor and a privilege to serve the Southwest Florida community over the past decade, especially during the impacts of hurricanes Irma, Ian, Helen and Milton,” DeWitt wrote on Facebook.
“I always give you everything I have with one goal: to keep you safe and keep you informed, not to make a big deal out of it. While this chapter ends differently than I had hoped, I wish WINK News and my former colleagues and weather team the best.
“I will still be providing weather updates on this page, just no longer on TV. My new Facebook name will be changed to Matt Devitt Weather, which you will see soon. In addition to sending Facebook messages, you are welcome to email me anytime at MattDevittWX@gmail.com.
“I’m taking a short break professionally to recalibrate and be with my family. I miss them and I’m looking forward to every minute. I’ll keep everyone updated on what’s next.
“Thank you to everyone who reached out, it means more to me than you can imagine.”
Dave Osborn is regional features editor for the Naples Daily News and The Courant. Contact him at dosborn@usatodayco.com and follow him on Instagram @lacrossewriter.
This article originally appeared in the Fort Myers News-Press: Matt Devitt shot at Florida TV station blows up Facebook
