A Mobile television meteorologist says he was “blindsided” by his station’s decision to let him go, while an executive says the station will be looking for “the right person” for its weather team.

Michael White, longtime meteorologist at WALA-TV10, a Fox affiliate, posted on Facebook late Monday that he and the station had parted ways, and it wasn’t his idea.

“As of today I’m no longer affiliated with FOX10,” he wrote in the post. “They’ve decided to go in a different direction and I wish them all the best. I was blindsided by this decision and I don’t want to leave the gulf coast.”

White went on to say, “I’m in search of a job in Meteorology or Public Relations. I hold 2 degrees. One in communications and another in atmospheric science. Please message me with any job opportunities that can benefit you or your company. I also will be offering meteorology consulting services to anyone or any business that needs it. Thank you. And for those of you that watched me for 15 years, a VERY special thank you.”

WALA General Manager Eric Duncan said it was his policy “not discuss any individual personnel matters publicly.” However, he indicated that White would be replaced.

“Fox10 has a fantastic Chief Meteorologist in Jason Smith,” Duncan said via email. “His experience tracking storms in this market is unmatched by anyone on air today. Jason has a great team of meteorologists working hard with great journalists to bring the most accurate weather and information in the market. We will start the search for the right person to join that team as soon as possible.”

In addition to Smith, WALA’s weather team includes meteorologists Matt Barrentine, Jennifer Lambers and Nicholas Herboso.

WALA announced White’s hiring on Dec. 9, 2009. It said he was a native of Dothan and had previously worked at WRDW in Augusta, Ga.