Rich Hoffman: The Story Behind News 12 Long Island’s Trusted Meteorologist

Photo by Dhaya Eddine Bentaleb on Unsplash

Introduction: Who Is Rich Hoffman?

Rich Hoffman is one of the most recognizable meteorologists on Long Island, serving as the Morning Meteorologist at News 12 Long Island since 2002. For over two decades, Hoffman has provided timely, accurate weather updates for millions of viewers, building a reputation for reliability and community engagement. Many viewers, however, have wondered about his background, what keeps him at News 12, and how to access his insights beyond television broadcasts. This article explores his professional journey, current activities, and ways the public can benefit from his expertise.

Rich Hoffman’s Career at News 12: A Trusted Local Voice

Rich Hoffman joined the News 12 Long Island weather team in September 2002, quickly becoming a staple of both the morning and afternoon editions. He is responsible for producing over 40 weather casts per shift, ensuring that viewers receive the latest updates on local conditions. His dedication to meteorology is reflected in his credentials as a Certified Broadcast Meteorologist, a professional distinction that underscores his expertise and commitment to accurate forecasting [1] .

Hoffman’s work goes beyond television. He also provides weather forecasts for several Long Island radio stations, including MyCountry 96.1, LI News Radio 103.9, and Party 105.3, expanding his reach and impact within the region [2] . His deep roots in the local community and consistent on-air presence have made him a trusted source of information in times of both calm and crisis.

Education and Early Life: Building a Meteorological Foundation

Raised in the Town of Babylon on Long Island, Rich Hoffman’s fascination with weather began at a young age. Inspired by his family’s outdoor activities and the ever-changing coastal climate, he started tracking weather systems as early as nine years old. After graduating from West Babylon High School, he pursued a dual degree at the University of Albany (SUNY), earning a Bachelor of Science in Atmospheric Science and a Bachelor of Arts in Communications [2] .

Hoffman’s career path took him through various television markets, including WNYT in Albany, WETM in Elmira, WVNY in Burlington, WFSB in Hartford, NECN in Boston, and WGGB-TV in Springfield. This breadth of experience gave him a broad perspective on weather patterns across the Northeast and prepared him for the unique challenges of forecasting for Long Island’s microclimates.

Community Involvement and Educational Outreach

Rich Hoffman is deeply involved in community activities, leveraging his platform to promote health, wellness, and science education. Since 2005, he has served as a professor at Farmingdale State College, teaching Introduction to Meteorology. His commitment to education reflects his belief in empowering the next generation of scientists and informed citizens.

Hoffman’s dedication extends to charitable work as well. He actively participates in Team and Training, raising funds for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Over the years, he has helped generate more than $30,000 for cancer research through participation in marathons, triathlons, and long-distance bike rides. After undergoing open-heart surgery in 2012 to replace his aortic valve, Hoffman became a passionate advocate for the American Heart Association, emphasizing the importance of heart health in public forums and media appearances [2] .

Current Status: Is Rich Hoffman Still at News 12?

As of the most recent verified updates, Rich Hoffman continues to serve as the Morning Meteorologist for News 12 Long Island. There are no credible reports suggesting that he has left the station, changed roles, or is no longer involved in broadcasting [1] [3] . In fact, he remains actively engaged in delivering weather updates, community outreach, and educational programming. For those seeking the latest weather forecasts or updates from Rich Hoffman, News 12 Long Island continues to feature his broadcasts regularly.

Hoffman also maintains a presence on social media, sharing weather insights and engaging directly with the community. While his official News 12 profiles provide timely forecasts, his personal website and social media accounts are valuable resources for those looking to stay informed or to learn more about his work and advocacy.

How to Access Rich Hoffman’s Forecasts and Updates

For viewers and residents seeking Rich Hoffman’s weather forecasts, there are several reliable ways to access his insights:

News 12 Long Island Broadcasts: Tune in to the Morning and Afternoon Editions to catch Hoffman’s live weather reports and analysis. These broadcasts are available to cable subscribers in the Long Island region [1] .
Radio Forecasts: Hoffman’s weather updates are aired on local stations such as MyCountry 96.1, LI News Radio 103.9, and Party 105.3, offering an accessible option for those on the go [2] .
Social Media: For real-time updates, educational content, and community engagement, follow Rich Hoffman on his official Facebook and Twitter profiles. Verified links to these platforms can be found via his official website or by searching for “News12 Meteorologist Rich Hoffman” on Facebook and Twitter.
Educational Outreach: Students interested in meteorology can enroll in Hoffman’s courses at Farmingdale State College or attend his public talks and community events when available.

If you do not have access to News 12 via cable, you can search for “News 12 Long Island weather” to find recent video clips and summaries on the official News 12 website. For radio forecasts, check the official websites of the listed radio stations or tune in during scheduled weather segments.

Common Questions About Rich Hoffman: Addressing Viewer Concerns

Given his long-standing visibility, viewers sometimes inquire about Hoffman’s health and ongoing role, particularly following his heart surgery in 2012. It is important to note that he has used his health experiences to advocate for heart health and continues to be active both professionally and in charity work. If official changes regarding his position or health are made public, News 12 and Rich Hoffman’s personal platforms will provide verified updates.

For the most up-to-date information, viewers can also contact News 12 Long Island’s newsroom directly or consult Rich Hoffman’s verified social media channels. If you have specific questions, you can reach out via the station’s official contact forms, or by searching for “News 12 Long Island contact” to find current phone numbers and email addresses for viewer inquiries.

How to Connect or Book Educational Events with Rich Hoffman

Organizations, schools, or community groups interested in hosting Rich Hoffman for educational events, talks, or outreach should begin by contacting Farmingdale State College’s science department or the News 12 Long Island community relations office. Search for “Farmingdale State College Meteorology Department” or “News 12 Long Island community outreach” to access official contact points. When reaching out, provide detailed information about your event, audience, and preferred dates to facilitate scheduling and response.

Real-World Example: Rich Hoffman’s Role During Severe Weather

During major weather events-such as hurricanes, nor’easters, or significant winter storms-Rich Hoffman’s expertise is especially valued. His ability to communicate complex weather patterns in an accessible manner helps residents make informed decisions regarding safety and preparedness. For example, during Hurricane Sandy, Hoffman provided continuous updates and safety advice, guiding Long Islanders through challenging conditions and recovery efforts. His calm, authoritative presence is frequently cited by viewers as a source of reassurance during emergencies.

Alternative Sources for Weather and Community Information

While Rich Hoffman is a leading authority for Long Island weather, viewers may also consult additional resources for comprehensive coverage. The National Weather Service (NWS) provides official forecasts, alerts, and weather safety tips nationwide. Residents can visit the NWS official website by searching for “National Weather Service New York” to find local forecasts and advisories. For news and community updates, News 12’s main website and official social media channels offer timely news, weather, and community resources.

Summary and Key Takeaways

Rich Hoffman remains an active and vital part of News 12 Long Island, continuing to provide accurate weather forecasts, educational outreach, and community support. There is no verified evidence suggesting any significant change in his professional status. Viewers can access his insights through News 12’s television and radio broadcasts, as well as his verified social media profiles. For those seeking more information, contacting News 12 or Farmingdale State College directly is recommended for official updates and educational opportunities.