Chief Meteorologist
Remembering those we recently lost
Plant the first tree in their honor
Key moments and achievements from Matt Hinkin's life.
Matt was born
· Knoxville, Tennessee, United States
Career
After completing his education at Kansas State University and the University of Kansas, Matt Hinkin launched his professional broadcasting career at KSNF-TV in Joplin, Missouri. During this formative period, he honed his skills in the heart of "Tornado Alley," where the volatile weather patterns of the Great Plains demanded precise and rapid communication. He later transitioned to KSNT-TV in Topeka, Kansas, further establishing his reputation for reliable severe weather coverage before moving to the Tennessee market. These early roles allowed Hinkin to master the technical complexities of radar technology and live reporting that would define his later career.
Career
After completing his education at Kansas State University and the University of Kansas, Matt Hinkin launched his professional broadcasting career at KSNF-TV in Joplin, Missouri. During this formative period, he honed his skills in the heart of "Tornado Alley," where the volatile weather patterns of the Great Plains demanded precise and rapid communication. He later transitioned to KSNT-TV in Topeka, Kansas, further establishing his reputation for reliable severe weather coverage before moving to the Tennessee market. These early roles allowed Hinkin to master the technical complexities of radar technology and live reporting that would define his later career.
Career
In 1990, Matt Hinkin relocated to Knoxville to join the weather department at WATE-TV, a move that would initiate a legendary 31-year tenure with the station. As a key member of Storm Team 6, he quickly became a household name by translating complex meteorological data into clear, actionable information for viewers across the Tennessee Valley. His arrival marked a new era for WATE’s weather coverage, as he brought a calm and authoritative presence to the screen during both routine forecasts and emergency situations. This transition to East Tennessee allowed Hinkin to apply his Great Plains experience to the unique challenges of Appalachian mountain weather and valley microclimates.
Career
In 1990, Matt Hinkin relocated to Knoxville to join the weather department at WATE-TV, a move that would initiate a legendary 31-year tenure with the station. As a key member of Storm Team 6, he quickly became a household name by translating complex meteorological data into clear, actionable information for viewers across the Tennessee Valley. His arrival marked a new era for WATE’s weather coverage, as he brought a calm and authoritative presence to the screen during both routine forecasts and emergency situations. This transition to East Tennessee allowed Hinkin to apply his Great Plains experience to the unique challenges of Appalachian mountain weather and valley microclimates.
Achievement
Hinkin became a trusted figure during the infamous Blizzard of 1993, when he and fellow WATE employees remained at the station for five straight days to provide continuous weather coverage and emergency information to the community.
Achievement
Hinkin became a trusted figure during the infamous Blizzard of 1993, when he and fellow WATE employees remained at the station for five straight days to provide continuous weather coverage and emergency information to the community.
Career
Hinkin rose to the position of Chief Meteorologist at WATE-TV, leading Storm Team 6 and serving as East Tennessee's most trusted weather authority for severe storms, winter weather, and daily forecasting.
Career
Hinkin rose to the position of Chief Meteorologist at WATE-TV, leading Storm Team 6 and serving as East Tennessee's most trusted weather authority for severe storms, winter weather, and daily forecasting.
Career
Hinkin retired from 6 News in August 2021 after more than 31 years of service, having been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. He left behind a legacy as one of Knoxville's most beloved broadcast journalists.
Career
Hinkin retired from 6 News in August 2021 after more than 31 years of service, having been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. He left behind a legacy as one of Knoxville's most beloved broadcast journalists.
Matt Hinkin passed away
