COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — NBC4 Today viewers will soon wake up to a familiar face to get their weekday forecast, as Joe Speir steps into the role of morning meteorologist.

Starting in early January, Meteorologist Joe Speir will join the NBC4 Today team alongside anchors Matt Barnes and Monica Day. The show airs Monday through Friday from 4 a.m. to 7 a.m., bringing central Ohioans the latest news and weather to start their day.

“I’m excited to join the NBC4 Today morning team,” Speir said. “I’ve had the chance to work with Matt and Monica on occasion during my time here at NBC4. Now, despite the earlier wake-up call, I’m thrilled to work alongside them every morning!”

Speir joined Storm Team 4 in April 2023, bringing years of experience forecasting weather across the Southeast including Macon, Georgia, and Columbia, South Carolina. As a native of Glenville, Pennsylvania, his move to Columbus has brought him closer to home.

“Columbus has been such a surprise,” Speir shared. “Learning about the city, eating the amazing food, and getting to know the people of central Ohio has been a highlight of my career so far. They’ve helped make this Penn State grad feel at home in Ohio State territory.”

Speir’s love for meteorology began with Hurricane Isabel in 2003, leading him to earn a degree in Meteorology and Atmospheric Science from Penn State University in 2020.

“As a 5-year-old, I was obviously more upset about my tree swing falling than the other impacts of a former Category 5 hurricane,” Speir explained. “But, growing up, it was a benchmark in my interest in weather. Learning the wider backstory of a big memory from my youth helped spark my passion. It’s why I’m still fascinated by hurricanes to this day.”

Outside the weather center, Speir enjoys exploring the outdoors, visiting local coffee shops, and finding the best eats in town.

Speir will officially switch to mornings on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025.