WATCH: Weather Channel reporter caught wildly exaggerating Hurricane Florence effects in viral video

Meteorologists warned the Carolinas that Hurricane Florence might be the "storm of the century," inundating the southeast coastline with catastrophic wind and "biblical" flooding. But one Weather Channel meteorologist was caught on Friday exaggerating the storm's power.

In a viral video that's now been viewed millions of times, Weather Channel meteorologist Mike Seidel is seen leaning into the wind and rain, appearing to struggle to maintain his balance in the brutal weather.

Then Seidel's cameraman pans out — and captures two men casually strolling in the background.

Reporting live from Wilmington, North Carolina, Seidel said: "This is about as nasty as it's been..."

The clip quickly went viral Friday, amassing hundreds of thousands of shares and nearly 15 million views by Saturday morning. Seidel also became the target of internet mockery. Still, the Weather Channel defended its famed personality.

In a statement to BuzzFeed News, the network explained the hilarious moment by noting that Seidel was standing on grass while the men in the background were walking on solid concrete.

"It’s important to note that the two individuals in the background are walking on concrete, and Mike Seidel is trying to maintain his footing on wet grass, after reporting on-air until 1:00 a.m. ET this morning and is undoubtedly exhausted," the network said.