Meteorologist Breaks Broadcast to Text Family Amid Tsunami Threat: ‘I’m a Father First’.

Meteorologist Breaks Broadcast to Text Family Amid Tsunami Threat: ‘I’m a Father First’.

In the USA

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During a live broadcast covering severe weather in Minnesota, meteorologist Nick Jansen paused to text his wife, ensuring his family was safe amid a potential tsunami threat.

The moment, captured on video and viewed over 8 million times, sparked both praise and criticism.

Jansen later defended his actions, stating, “I am a husband and a father FIRST.”

While some viewers questioned his professionalism, others applauded his humanity and priorities.

The incident sparked a wave of dialogue across social media, illuminating the emotional toll of forecasting life-threatening events and the delicate balance between professional duty and personal responsibility.

Many say that Jansen’s decision to prioritize his family in that moment is a powerful reminder that, even amid high-pressure roles, family safety must remain paramount.

Shortly after, Jansen responded publicly.

“I am a husband and a father FIRST,” he wrote, in a deeply personal post.

“I don’t usually post things like this, but after nearly three hours of storm coverage Monday night, I wanted to share a quick thought. I received an email telling me how unprofessional I was during my coverage. The quote that really struck me: ‘That he has to call his wife to make sure she takes the baby to safety? Maybe some people think it’s noble or cute. I don’t.’

I take my job and your safety very seriously. But I’m also a husband and a father. In the middle of severe weather, I decided to take a brief moment to make sure my wife and child were safely in the basement. That’s not me being unprofessional — it’s me being human.

I am a husband and a father FIRST.

Let’s all try to show each other a little more understanding and respect in life. ❤”

Jansen stood firm in his decision:

His message sparked a broader conversation across social media about the emotional toll of forecasting life-threatening events and the delicate balance between professional duty and personal responsibility.

Many rallied behind him, saying it was a powerful reminder that even in high-pressure roles, family safety must remain paramount.

Support poured in from viewers, echoing their admiration for Jansen’s sincerity and humanity:

Kristine Malone: “You are awesome and human. That’s why I watch. I want honest weather reports from a real person. You need to take care of all of us — including your family!”

Brooke Heaton: “Family should always come before anything. You had a moment to message your wife — that’s what a good husband and father does.”

Sunshine MillerMaloney: “I know the threat is real when forecasters check on their loved ones. 💖”

Susan Keller-Schaefer: “That was wonderful! Don’t give negativity your attention. Keep being a good human.”

Emily Soderberg: “My 5-year-old watched you and called meteorologists superheroes. Real families depend on your coverage — and your family is part of that.”

Marcia Schwartz: “Family is always 110% first. You’re a great family man and professional. Ignore the negativity!”

Dianna Whitacre Childers: “You’re an amazing meteorologist and an even better person for putting family first. Truly admirable.”

Barb Funke: “Husband & Father is definitely priority! You’re the calming voice we need in a storm. Thank you!”

John Apenhorst Sr.: “Behind you 110%, Nick. Some people just live to complain — keep doing you.”

Sawyer McElroy: “Glad everyone was ok. You’ve always checked on your family during storms — that’s who you are.”

Mary Beth Ringwald: “Checking on family was perfectly professional. You had support, and you did the right thing.”

Jackie Jensen: “Ridiculous! You shouldn’t have to explain yourself. Family is always first!”

Jonathan Holmes: “You checked on your family, came back to the job like a pro. That’s being responsible.”

Donna Oellrich: “FAMILY FIRST — 100%! Your care and concern are exactly what makes you stand out.”

Tracy Lermon: “There was nothing wrong with that. Family first, period.”

Watch it below. 

Yetunde B reports for Yeyetunde’s Blog. 

KTCC /Nick Jansen /Social Media.

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— Yeyetunde’s Blog (@YeyetundeB) August 5, 2025