Born in 1974 in Albany, NY, Bill Karins got his start chasing tornadoes at NBC affiliate KSNT-TV in Topeka, Kansas. Working in North Carolina at local station WCTI-TV, he reported from inside the eye of hurricanes -- covering hurricanes Bertha and Fran in 1996, and hurricane Bonnie in 1998. Bill spent time forecasting winter storms in Bangor, Maine, and also covered hurricanes Charley, Jeanne, Frances and Ivan in South Florida.

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Last stamp on your passport: St. Lucia (Honeymoon)

Recently played on your ipod: Any U2 Song

Always in your fridge: Frozen Ice Cream Dog Treats (They don’t taste like ice cream but my lab loves them.)

Favorite weather phenomenon: I’ve been in hurricanes and chased tornadoes but nothing amazes me or scares me as much as the lightning in Central Florida. I lived there for three summers dodging lightning bolts every afternoon. Even saw sparks fly off a parking lot metal light poll directly above my car. Glad I waited in the store!

Childhood dream job: I wanted to be Willard Scott since 2nd grade. (And not when he was Ronald McDonald)

Bookmarked on your computer: Yahoo Fantasy Football (I’m addicted)

Favorite season: When they are changing.

Most harrowing weather experience: Chasing a tornado in Kansas at dusk which soon became night. A trash can blew across the road and almost hit me (not smart). Tip: When you can identify debris you are to close.

Hot or cold?: Can I get snow without the cold?

Favorite Karaoke bar tune: I sang a Queen song like 5 years ago and my Karaoke ban still continues.

Ever share your name with a hurricane?: Bill is in the six year rotation and in 2006 William is at the end of the list. Usually we never make it to the end… wow has that thinking changed!

Biggest inspiration: My Mother… Then: A single mom raising three kids on a high school education. Now: She has a degree and is an elected official in my hometown.

Rain, snow, sleet or hail?: Snow hands down

The perfect day: The morning after a large snowstorm walking in the woods with my wife and Black Lab “Kaleb”… but the sun must be out, the wind calm and no colder than 30 degrees please.