FORT MYERS, Fla. — Justin Hobbs’ dreams of becoming a meteorologist were born when a tornado narrowly missed his childhood home.
From that moment on, a love of weather – and informing people about weather – was born. But initially Hobbs didn’t think that would turn into a career. His parents were the ones who encouraged him to become a meteorologist. “I’m not going to be a geeky weather man,” he replied. “Well, lo and behold.”
In February, Hobbs joined the NBC2 team after several prior stops working across the country.
“I think a lot of my passion and drive came from being born without a hand,” Hobbs, who is the only meteorologist with one hand in the country, said. “A lot of people ask me what it’s like living without a hand. My first response is ‘What’s it like having two?’ Because I don’t know.”
None of the setbacks Justin’s experienced in life have stopped him from doing what he loves. He is an avid mountain and rock climber and has done both of those activities around the world.
One of the highlights of Justin’s career came when a young boy named Jackson dressed up like him for Halloween. Jackson was also born without a hand. “It was so heartwarming to see that,” Hobbs said.
Justin hopes his story may inspire others to be themselves.
“Be yourself because if you don’t, you’re robbing the world of who you are,” Hobbs said. “And you’re robbing yourself of who you are.”
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