Joanna Donnelly Reflects on Transition After Leaving RTÉ

Former RTÉ weather presenter Joanna Donnelly has opened up about the challenges she faced in recent months following her unexpected departure from the national broadcaster. In April 2023, she surprised audiences by announcing her last weather report live on air, concluding a notable 30-year career at Met Éireann, where she became one of Ireland’s most recognized meteorologists.

Reflecting on her transition, the 54-year-old Donnelly revealed that the past few months have been particularly difficult. Speaking from her home in Dublin, where she has been redecorating since leaving the airwaves, she stated, “The last few months have been very difficult for me, and I’ve been concentrating on getting well and healing.” This statement highlights her focus on personal well-being during this period of change.

Donnelly, a mother of three and married to fellow meteorologist Harm Luijkx, described her decision to leave a secure job as a challenging one. “I hope I’m not on the scrap heap just yet,” she remarked, addressing concerns many face at mid-life about career prospects. Despite her uncertainties, she has kept herself occupied with home improvement projects and is exploring new opportunities.

In her candid discussion, Donnelly acknowledged the emotional complexity of the transition. “If I didn’t think that there was some hope or opportunity, then I wouldn’t have left the nice pensionable civil service job,” she explained. Her mixed feelings about leaving a long-held position reflect the broader challenges many individuals encounter when contemplating career shifts.

As a former contestant on Dancing With The Stars and author of two books, Donnelly expressed a desire to pursue more writing in the future. “I do like writing, and I get a lot of satisfaction from it,” she shared. Her previous publications include The Great Irish Weather Book, released in 2018, and From Malin Head To Mizen Head, published by Gill Books in 2023.

Donnelly hinted at a possible future project, suggesting that her expertise in meteorology could lead to a climate-focused podcast. “I have a lot of things to say,” she stated, emphasizing her knack for communicating complex weather information in a relatable way. She recognizes the public’s fascination with weather, noting, “Every minute of your life is affected by the weather, but a lot of people don’t understand it at all.”

Amidst rising concerns about climate change, Donnelly aims to shift the conversation from weather specifics to broader societal implications. “Maybe that would lead on to a chat about the implications on society, as opposed to ‘wildfires move animals and they move people,’” she suggested. This approach reflects her commitment to increasing public understanding of the climate emergency.

With her extensive background in meteorology and a passion for communication, Joanna Donnelly is poised to explore new avenues that resonate with her interests and expertise. Her journey serves as an inspiration for those navigating similar transitions in their careers, highlighting the importance of adaptability and self-reflection during times of change.