Joanne Feldman is an American meteorologist and television personality best known for her long-standing career at FOX 5 Atlanta. Recognized for her accurate forecasts and calm reporting during severe weather events, she has become one of Georgia’s most trusted weather experts. After joining the station in 2007, she steadily built a reputation for professionalism, scientific knowledge, and viewer confidence. In 2026, she was promoted to Chief Meteorologist following David Chandley’s retirement, marking a significant milestone in her broadcasting career. Beyond television, she is also known as a devoted wife and mother. This Joanne Feldman biography explores her career, family, education, achievements, and other interesting facts about her life.
Who Is Joanne Feldman?
Joanne Feldman is an American television meteorologist who serves as the Chief Meteorologist for FOX 5 Atlanta (WAGA-TV). She is widely recognized for delivering accurate weather forecasts and providing reliable coverage during severe weather events that affect Georgia and the southeastern United States.
Over the course of her broadcasting career, Joanne has become a trusted source of weather information for millions of viewers. Whether covering dangerous tornado outbreaks, hurricane impacts, flooding, or winter storms, she has consistently demonstrated professionalism, scientific expertise, and clear communication.
Her promotion to Chief Meteorologist in 2026 marked another significant achievement in a career built on experience, dedication, and public service. Today, she continues to play a leading role in helping viewers prepare for changing weather conditions while educating the public about weather safety.
Early Life
Joanne Feldman was raised in Georgia, where her interest in weather developed at an early age. Growing up in a region that experiences a wide variety of weather conditions—including severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, tropical systems, and occasional winter weather—sparked her curiosity about how the atmosphere works.
Rather than viewing weather as simply a daily forecast, she became interested in the science behind changing weather patterns. This passion eventually inspired her to pursue higher education in geography and meteorology, providing the foundation for a successful broadcasting career.
Although Joanne is well known through her work on television, she has always maintained a relatively private personal life, choosing to focus public attention on her work as a meteorologist rather than on personal details.
Education
Joanne Feldman’s academic background reflects her commitment to building a strong scientific foundation before entering television broadcasting.
She attended Lassiter High School in Georgia, where she excelled academically and developed a growing interest in environmental science and weather.
After graduating from high school, she enrolled at the University of Georgia, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Geography. Her studies included atmospheric science, climatology, environmental systems, and geographic analysis, all of which are valuable disciplines for understanding weather forecasting.
To further strengthen her meteorological expertise, Joanne completed advanced meteorology studies through the highly respected Penn State University meteorology program. Penn State is recognized nationally for preparing broadcast meteorologists with advanced forecasting skills, radar interpretation, atmospheric dynamics, and severe weather analysis.
The combination of a geography degree and advanced meteorological training provided Joanne with both scientific knowledge and practical forecasting skills that would later define her broadcasting career.
Building a Career in Broadcast Meteorology
Breaking into television meteorology requires far more than appearing on camera. Meteorologists must analyze weather models, interpret radar data, understand atmospheric science, and explain potentially dangerous weather situations in a way that helps viewers make informed decisions.
Like many successful broadcast meteorologists, Joanne began her career by gaining experience in smaller and medium-sized television markets before eventually joining one of the nation’s largest local television stations.
Working in different regions exposed her to a wide range of weather events and forecasting challenges, helping her develop the experience necessary to succeed in a major market such as Atlanta.
Early Television Experience
Before joining FOX 5 Atlanta, Joanne worked at television stations in both California and North Carolina.
One of her early positions was at KMPH-TV in Fresno, California. Forecasting in California introduced her to a very different climate from the southeastern United States. Instead of frequent hurricanes and widespread severe thunderstorms, California presented challenges such as prolonged heat, drought conditions, wildfire weather, and occasional Pacific storm systems.
She later joined WTVD in Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina, where she gained valuable experience forecasting hurricanes, tropical storms, severe thunderstorms, flash flooding, and winter weather. North Carolina’s diverse climate allowed Joanne to further strengthen her forecasting abilities while developing confidence covering high-impact weather events on live television.
Each position added to her professional experience and prepared her for the next stage of her career.
Joining FOX 5 Atlanta
A defining moment in Joanne Feldman’s career came in 2007, when she joined FOX 5 Atlanta (WAGA-TV) as a meteorologist.
Atlanta is one of the largest television markets in the United States, and forecasting weather for Georgia requires extensive knowledge of rapidly changing weather patterns. The state regularly experiences severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, remnants of tropical systems, flooding, heat waves, and occasional winter storms.
From the beginning of her time at FOX 5, Joanne became known for presenting detailed forecasts in a calm, informative, and easy-to-understand manner. Her ability to explain complicated weather systems without unnecessary technical language helped viewers better understand potential risks and prepare for severe conditions.
As technology evolved, Joanne also embraced modern forecasting tools, including advanced radar systems, satellite imagery, high-resolution forecast models, and digital weather graphics. These tools enabled her to provide more detailed and accurate forecasts while keeping viewers informed during rapidly changing weather situations.
Her years of consistent performance earned the respect of colleagues, viewers, and the broader meteorological community.
Covering Georgia’s Severe Weather
Georgia experiences a broad range of weather hazards throughout the year, making accurate forecasting especially important.
During her years at FOX 5 Atlanta, Joanne has covered numerous significant weather events, including:
- Severe thunderstorm outbreaks
- Tornado watches and warnings
- Tropical storm and hurricane impacts
- Flash flooding
- Winter storms and freezing rain
- Extreme summer heat
- Heavy rainfall events
When dangerous weather threatens the region, television meteorologists often remain on the air for extended periods, providing continuous updates until the threat has passed. Joanne has played an important role during many of these extended severe-weather broadcasts, helping viewers understand warnings, storm tracks, and safety recommendations.
Her calm approach during high-pressure situations has become one of the qualities viewers appreciate most.
Becoming Chief Meteorologist
In 2026, Joanne Feldman reached one of the most significant milestones of her broadcasting career when she was appointed Chief Meteorologist at FOX 5 Atlanta following David Chandley’s retirement.
The position of Chief Meteorologist carries significant responsibility. In addition to delivering forecasts, the role involves leading the station’s weather team, overseeing forecast accuracy, coordinating severe weather coverage, and helping guide long-term weather reporting strategies.
Joanne’s appointment reflected nearly two decades of service at FOX 5 Atlanta and years of experience covering Georgia’s challenging weather. It also demonstrated the confidence the station placed in her leadership, forecasting skills, and commitment to serving viewers.
Her promotion marked the beginning of a new chapter in a career already defined by professionalism, scientific expertise, and public trust.
Professional Reputation
Throughout her career, Joanne Feldman has established a reputation for accuracy, preparation, and professionalism.
She is respected not only for presenting daily forecasts but also for educating viewers about weather safety, explaining complex atmospheric conditions, and remaining composed during severe weather emergencies.
Her work illustrates the essential role broadcast meteorologists play in protecting communities by delivering timely, understandable, and scientifically sound weather information.
As Chief Meteorologist at FOX 5 Atlanta, Joanne continues to build on a career that has made her one of Georgia’s most familiar and trusted weather broadcasters.
Personal Life
Although Joanne Feldman has spent many years in front of television audiences, she has chosen to keep much of her personal life private. Unlike many public figures who regularly share details about their families, Joanne has maintained a balance between her professional responsibilities and her life away from the camera.
Outside of broadcasting, she enjoys spending time with her family and values maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Her ability to manage the demands of a high-profile television career while keeping her personal life largely out of the spotlight has earned the respect of many viewers.
Age
Joanne Feldman celebrates her birthday on November 11 each year.
Her exact birth year has not been publicly disclosed by reliable official sources. As a result, her precise age cannot be stated with certainty. Many websites list different ages, but none of those claims have been confirmed by Joanne or FOX 5 Atlanta.
Husband
Joanne Feldman is married and has occasionally spoken about the importance of family during interviews and community appearances.
However, she has kept details about her husband out of the public spotlight. While various websites identify him by name, there is no official confirmation from Joanne or FOX 5 Atlanta. Respecting her privacy, it is appropriate to say only that she is married and maintains a strong family life alongside her broadcasting career.
Children
Joanne Feldman is the mother of two children.
She has occasionally shared family moments through public appearances and social media, but she generally keeps her children away from media attention. By maintaining this level of privacy, she has allowed them to grow up outside the public spotlight while continuing her successful broadcasting career.
Leadership at FOX 5 Atlanta
As Chief Meteorologist, Joanne Feldman is responsible for more than presenting daily weather forecasts.
Her leadership includes helping guide the station’s weather coverage, mentoring fellow meteorologists, analyzing forecast models, and coordinating coverage during severe weather events. Viewers rely on her experience during tornado outbreaks, hurricane threats, flash flooding, winter storms, and other significant weather situations affecting Georgia.
Her years of forecasting experience have made her one of the most trusted weather professionals in the Atlanta television market.
Professional Memberships and Certifications
One of Joanne Feldman’s most notable professional achievements is earning the Certified Broadcast Meteorologist (CBM) designation from the American Meteorological Society (AMS).
The CBM credential is awarded to broadcast meteorologists who demonstrate strong scientific knowledge, effective communication skills, and a commitment to professional ethics. It is widely regarded as one of the highest professional certifications available in broadcast meteorology.
This certification reflects Joanne’s dedication to maintaining high standards of accuracy and professionalism throughout her career.
Awards and Recognition
Over the years, Joanne Feldman has built a strong reputation for dependable weather coverage and public service.
Among her recognized professional accomplishments are:
- Certified Broadcast Meteorologist (CBM) designation from the American Meteorological Society.
- More than two decades of experience in broadcast meteorology.
- Longtime member of the FOX 5 Atlanta weather team since 2007.
- Promotion to Chief Meteorologist in 2026 following David Chandley’s retirement.
- Recognition from viewers for clear communication during severe weather coverage.
Net Worth
Joanne Feldman has enjoyed a successful career in television meteorology spanning more than two decades.
Although she has never publicly disclosed her financial information, several entertainment and celebrity websites estimate her net worth to be between $1 million and $3 million. These figures are estimates published by third-party sources and have not been verified by Joanne herself.
Her primary source of income is her career in television broadcasting.
Salary
FOX 5 Atlanta has not publicly released Joanne Feldman’s salary.
Based on industry averages for experienced meteorologists working in major U.S. television markets, various media outlets estimate that senior broadcast meteorologists can earn competitive annual salaries. However, Joanne’s actual compensation has not been publicly disclosed.
Is Joanne Feldman Retiring?
No.
There is no indication that Joanne Feldman is retiring.
In fact, her appointment as Chief Meteorologist in 2026 demonstrates that she continues to play a leading role at FOX 5 Atlanta. She remains an active member of the station’s weather team and continues delivering forecasts for viewers across Georgia.
Interesting Facts
- Joanne Feldman has been forecasting weather professionally for more than two decades.
- She joined FOX 5 Atlanta in 2007.
- She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Geography from the University of Georgia.
- She completed advanced meteorology studies through Penn State University.
- She previously worked at WTVD in North Carolina and KMPH-TV in California.
- She holds the Certified Broadcast Meteorologist (CBM) credential from the American Meteorological Society.
- She became Chief Meteorologist at FOX 5 Atlanta in 2026.
- She is widely recognized for her calm and informative coverage during severe weather events.
- She has built a reputation as one of Georgia’s most respected television meteorologists.
- She continues to educate viewers about weather safety while delivering accurate daily forecasts.
Biography at a Glance
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Joanne Feldman |
| Profession | Television Meteorologist |
| Nationality | American |
| Birthplace | Georgia, United States |
| Birthday | November 11 |
| Birth Year | Not publicly disclosed |
| Education | University of Georgia (B.S. in Geography); Penn State University meteorology program |
| High School | Lassiter High School |
| Current Employer | FOX 5 Atlanta (WAGA-TV) |
| Current Position | Chief Meteorologist |
| Joined FOX 5 Atlanta | 2007 |
| Previous Employers | WTVD (Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina); KMPH-TV (Fresno, California) |
| Professional Certification | Certified Broadcast Meteorologist (CBM), American Meteorological Society |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Children | Two |
| Residence | Georgia, United States |
| Estimated Net Worth | Approximately $1 million–$3 million (third-party estimates) |
Final Thoughts
Joanne Feldman has established herself as one of the most respected broadcast meteorologists in Georgia through years of accurate forecasting, scientific expertise, and dedicated public service. From her education at the University of Georgia and advanced meteorology training through Penn State University to her experience at television stations in California, North Carolina, and Atlanta, she has built a career founded on professionalism and reliability.
Her promotion to Chief Meteorologist at FOX 5 Atlanta in 2026 reflects the confidence the station has in her leadership and forecasting abilities. Whether reporting on routine weather conditions or providing continuous coverage during severe storms, Joanne remains committed to helping viewers stay informed and safe. Her long-standing service, respected reputation, and dedication to broadcast meteorology continue to make her one of Atlanta’s most trusted weather experts.
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FAQs
How old is Joanne Feldman?
Joanne Feldman’s exact age is not publicly confirmed because she has not disclosed her birth year. She celebrates her birthday on November 11.
When did Joanne Feldman leave Georgia?
Joanne Feldman has not left Georgia. She continues to work at FOX 5 Atlanta and was promoted to Chief Meteorologist in 2026.
What happened to Jennifer Valdez?
Jennifer Valdez remains with FOX 5 Atlanta as a meteorologist. She continues to appear on the station’s weather broadcasts alongside the FOX 5 weather team.
Who is Joanne Feldman?
Joanne Feldman is an American television meteorologist who serves as the Chief Meteorologist at FOX 5 Atlanta, where she delivers weather forecasts and severe weather coverage.
What does a chief meteorologist earn?
A chief meteorologist at a major U.S. television station typically earns between $100,000 and $250,000 per year, though salaries vary depending on the market, experience, and employer.
