College Student’s Weather Forecasts Gain Wide Following Across North Carolina

RALEIGH, N.C. — When storms threaten North Carolina, thousands turn not to TV meteorologists, but to a 22-year-old college student in Raleigh whose forecasts have gained statewide trust and national attention.

Ethan Clark, a senior at NC State University majoring in environmental sciences, operates North Carolina’s Weather Authority, a Facebook page with nearly 800,000 followers. From his bedroom between classes, Clark posts storm maps, temperature forecasts, and detailed analyses, often working more than 15 hours during severe weather.

From Childhood Fascination to Statewide Recognition

Clark’s fascination with weather began early. As a child, he delivered forecasts during elementary school morning announcements and even dressed up as his idol, Weather Channel forecaster Jim Cantore, for Halloween.

By seventh grade, he secretly launched a Facebook page called “Ethan’s Weather,” which grew rapidly before evolving into his current platform. Clark sharpened his skills through self-study, YouTube tutorials, online courses, and an internship at WRAL, where he arrived before dawn to help with graphics and coverage.

“I’ve always wanted people to feel prepared, not panicked,” Clark explained.

Trusted Voice During Major Storms

Clark’s following grew significantly during Hurricane Helene in 2024, when his updates on catastrophic flooding in western North Carolina helped convince families to evacuate.

One woman later wrote that Clark’s warnings saved her parents’ lives, while another story circulated about a pregnant woman trapped in Black Mountain who was eventually rescued. The consistency and compassion behind his updates have made him a vital voice, especially in rural communities.

His work earned him the Dogwood Award from then–Attorney General and now–Governor Josh Stein, one of the state’s highest civilian honors. CBS News also profiled Clark, arranging a meeting with Cantore — the very meteorologist who inspired his career.

Engaging Communities Across the State

Clark’s posts extend beyond major hurricanes. Every morning he shares a color-coded map of high temperatures across all of North Carolina, ensuring smaller towns like Avon and Cherokee are not overlooked.

During Hurricane Erin this summer, Clark calmly guided followers through storm surge predictions, rip current warnings, and evacuation questions. “We will get through this storm just like we have all the others,” he reassured them.

That reassuring style has created a bond with his audience. “You are…everything,” one fan commented on his page.

Looking Ahead

While Clark continues his studies in climate change and natural disasters, his forecasts remain his priority whenever weather threatens the Carolinas. “I just assume I’m not sleeping much if a hurricane’s coming,” he admitted.

With storm seasons becoming more unpredictable, his unique blend of grassroots communication and scientific rigor has positioned him as a leading young voice in North Carolina’s weather coverage.

Do you follow Ethan Clark’s forecasts, or do you rely on traditional meteorologists? Share your experiences in the comments and join the conversation at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.