LYNDEN, WASHINGTON – In Whatcom County, where weather patterns can shift dramatically from serene to severe, one man has built a vital community resource. Randy Small, the founder of Whatcom County Weather, has transformed his passion for meteorology into a trusted source of local weather information. Celebrating a milestone of 50,000 followers on Facebook, Randy’s platform is an indispensable tool for residents seeking accurate, real-time updates and forecasts tailored to the region’s unique climate.
A Lifelong Fascination with Weather
Randy’s journey into weather forecasting began with an early fascination with Whatcom County’s diverse microclimates. He was captivated by the area’s unique weather phenomena, such as the northeast outflow winds and stark contrasts in snowfall across short distances.
“I wanted to understand why we got northeast outflow winds and why it snowed north of Smith Road but rained south of it,” Randy explained.
In November 2017, he decided to share his passion with others, launching Whatcom County Weather on Facebook. By December, his first major test came with an ice storm, drawing over 400 viewers to his Facebook Live update. “That’s when I realized this could be bigger than I thought,” Randy said.
A Day in the Life of a Weather Forecaster
Randy dedicates an average of two hours a day to Whatcom County Weather, with that time significantly increasing during storm events. Using professional tools like WeatherBell, Tropical Tidbits, and Pivotal Weather, Randy analyzes complex meteorological data to craft detailed forecasts.
“I study National Weather Service discussions daily and consult with meteorologists across the Pacific Northwest,” he said. His subscription services, costing $40–$50 a month, shows his commitment to delivering high-quality information.
The Team Behind the Scenes
While Randy is the face of the operation, he works alongside a dedicated team. Jennifer handles about 30% of the page’s updates, Brett contributes during the winter months, and Sean Wheeler assists with posts and storm-chasing adventures.
The team recently faced a significant loss with the passing of Randy’s aunt, who was a pivotal contributor. “She created daily graphic forecasts and worked tirelessly, even during her treatments,” Randy shared. “Her dedication inspires us every day.”
Community Impact and Memorable Moments
Since its inception, Whatcom County Weather has grown into an invaluable resource for local residents. Randy’s updates often guide school officials, emergency services, and the public during critical weather events.
One of Randy’s most memorable moments came during the historic November 2021 floods. “I was part of rescue efforts on Garrison Road,” he recalled. “It was incredible to see the community come together during such a challenging time.”
Challenges in Weather Reporting
Running Whatcom County Weather isn’t without its challenges. Field reporting during severe weather involves time, fuel, and equipment expenses. Organizing information during significant events can be overwhelming, especially as Randy juggles messages, updates, and reports.
To streamline operations, he uses shortcuts and concise updates but admits that the sheer volume of information can still be daunting.
Looking Ahead: Goals for the Future
Reaching 50,000 followers is just the beginning for Whatcom County Weather. Randy has ambitious goals, including expanding coverage to underserved areas like Lummi Island and the foothills.
He’s also considering developing a weather app and enhancing his website to provide even more value to his audience. “I’d love to reach 75,000 followers next,” Randy said.
Celebrating a Milestone
For Randy Small, weather is more than a forecast—it’s about community and connection. Whether helping residents prepare for a snowstorm or guiding rescue efforts during a flood, Whatcom County Weather continues to be a cornerstone of local life.
As Randy looks to the future, his dedication to serving Whatcom County remains unwavering. With his expertise and the support of a loyal following, Whatcom County Weather is poised to remain a trusted resource for years to come.
FUND Local Weather
You can support Whatcom County Weather by contributing to their GoFundMe campaign. Your donation helps ensure the continued delivery of timely, accurate weather updates and critical emergency information that our community relies on during severe weather events.
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