ABC 33/40 Chief Meteorologist James Spann has been named the 2019 National Weatherperson of the Year.

As reported by the Alabama television station, Spann is being honored by the Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH).

“If we said we were surprised, we’d be lying,” ABC 33/40 said.

Spann was presented with the award Friday evening.

The meteorologist was reportedly selected “for his dedication to the community and for working tirelessly to prepare the public for severe weather.” From its initial candidate pool of 70, FLASH chose Spann as one of five finalists. Voters then selected Spann as the winner through a poll on the organization’s Facebook page.

Sean Ross is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @sean_yhn