James Spann of ABC 33/40 Shares Tips on Weather, Tornado Safety at Springville Road Library

When it comes to general knowledge about weather and how to protect yourself from tornadoes and lightning, James Spann is a walking encyclopedia.

On August 10, the popular meteorologist for ABC 33/40 in Birmingham delivered an hour-long Weather 101 conversation before nearly 50 people at the Springville Road Regional Branch Library. Using a combination of informational slides and jokes, Spann explained how clouds are formed, what causes tornadoes, and shared wisdom and safety tips. He also urged parents to purchase a $30 weather radio to help protect their family when dangerous weather approaches.

Spann has been a television weather anchor for 38 years. He has received numerous national awards, including National Broadcaster of the Year from the National Weather Association in September 2012 for "his passionate dedication to serving the Central Alabama community with critical weather information for over 30 years, especially during the deadly April 27, 2011, tornado outbreak” in Alabama. Spann was also one of the first weather anchors in the nation to earn Certified Broadcasting Meteorologist status from the American Meteorological Society.