Mark Mathis: The Meteorologist Who Conquered Storms On and Off Camera

Whether he’s crashing a live segment with an Elvis impersonation or delivering a heartfelt speech on recovery, Mark Mathis is anything but a typical “weather guy.” For over three decades, the KUSI and FOX 5 San Diego meteorologist has turned the five-minute weather window into high-stakes theater.

But behind the viral YouTube clips and the “zaniness” that landed him on The Late Show with David Letterman, there is a story of a man who faced his own personal “bomb cyclone” and came out stronger. As of 2026, Mark remains a fixture in Southern California media, proving that authenticity—messy as it may be—is the ultimate key to career longevity.

From Baylor to the “Eye of the Storm”

Born in 1966 in Texas, Mark’s high-energy personality was evident long before he stepped in front of a green screen. A proud Baylor University alum, he initially focused on marketing and broadcasting. However, the science of the skies called to him, leading him to earn a degree in Meteorology from Mississippi State University.

His career path reads like a travelogue of American newsrooms:

• Myrtle Beach & Charleston, SC: Where he first learned to balance humidity charts with humor.

• Dallas (WFAA) & Austin (KTBC): Sharpening his skills in the heart of “Tornado Alley.”

• Charlotte (WCCB): This is where “Mark Mathis” became a household name—and a YouTube legend.

The Viral Years: More Than Just “The Weatherman”

In Charlotte, Mark broke the mold of the stiff, suit-clad forecaster. He was unpredictable. One night he might be singing; the next, he’d be teasing his anchors. These antics didn’t just win local ratings; they went global. Segments from his shows were rebroadcast on:

• MTV & VH1

• The Tonight Show

• BBC (United Kingdom)

• German and Russian National TV

While some critics found his style “unorthodox,” viewers couldn’t look away. He wasn’t just telling you if it would rain; he was making sure you had a reason to smile before the commercial break.

The Most Important Forecast: A Journey to Recovery

Life wasn’t always sunny. Mark has been incredibly open about his battles with addiction, a transparency that has endeared him to thousands. After a public struggle and a stint in rehab, many thought his career was over. Instead, Mark turned his rock bottom into a foundation.

He became a vocal member of FAVOR (Faces and Voices of Recovery) and has dedicated much of his personal time to the Charlotte Rescue Mission. By sharing his story, he transformed from a “TV personality” into a “human advocate,” showing that recovery is possible for anyone, even under the bright lights of a news studio.

Is Mark Mathis Still on KUSI News?

Yes! As of early 2026, Mark continues to bring his unique flair to KUSI News (now part of the San Diego Local News network). He recently made headlines for his “Mark My Words” podcast, where he dives into local San Diego politics and community issues, proving his range extends far beyond temperature maps.

Personal Life: Behind the Scenes

While Mark is an open book on air, fans often ask about his life off-camera.

• Is Mark Mathis married? Mark is known to be private regarding his current marital status and family life, preferring to keep the spotlight on his community work and career.

• Age & Vitality: At 59 years old, Mark maintains an energy level that rivals reporters half his age.

• The Entertainer: Outside of news, he is a seasoned stage performer, having appeared with the La Jolla Stage Company and the Charleston Stage Company.

Career Milestones at a Glance

The Legacy of a “Weather Legend”

Mark Mathis teaches us that you don’t have to fit into a box to be successful. Whether he’s hosting the Masquerade Ball for charity or explaining a marine layer over San Diego, he does it with a “what you see is what you get” attitude. In a world of filtered perfection, Mark’s raw, energetic, and sometimes zany approach is exactly the forecast we need.

What’s your favorite Mark Mathis memory? Did you see him back in the Charlotte days or do you watch him now in San Diego? Let us know in the comments below!

Sources & References

1. KUSI News Official Staff Profiles (2025-2026).

2. WFAE 90.7 NPR: “After hitting bottom, Fox’s Mark Mathis feels back on top.”

3. Mississippi State University Alumni – Department of Geosciences.

4. The Arc of San Diego: Event Coverage with Mark Mathis (April 2025).

5. Apple Podcasts: “KUSI News: Mark My Words!” series.