Veteran Weatherman Reflects on Changing Forecast Styles

From backyard weather stations to the rise of female meteorologists, a look at the evolution of weather reporting over the decades.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 9:07pm

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In this personal reflection, a veteran weatherman shares his memories of growing up with the local weather bureau and the early days of TV meteorology. He reminisces about iconic weathermen like Wally Kinnan and Dick Goddard, the launch of the Weather Channel, and the increasing dramatization of weather reporting. Despite the advances in technology, he believes true weather knowledge still makes the difference.

Why it matters

This story provides a unique historical perspective on the evolution of weather reporting, from the early days of radio and TV meteorology to the modern era of 24/7 weather coverage. It highlights how weather forecasting and communication styles have changed over the decades, reflecting broader societal and technological shifts.

The details

The author recalls growing up in northern Ohio, where he was able to hear detailed weather reports and forecasts from the local National Weather Service office. He describes the early broadcast meteorologists, many of whom came from military backgrounds, such as Wally Kinnan and Dick Goddard. The author also notes the rise of more entertaining and visually-driven weather presenters, like "Hoolihan the Weather Man" in Cleveland. He expresses concerns about the increasing dramatization of weather reporting and the overuse of severe weather warnings.

  • As a kid growing up in northern Ohio in the 1950s and 1960s.
  • The Weather Channel was launched in May 1982.
  • Hurricane names were changed from exclusively female to include male names in 1979.
  • The practice of naming winter storms began in the fall of 2012.

The players

Ed Jacobs

A weather broadcaster from the author's childhood.

Charles Miller

A weather broadcaster from the author's childhood.

Dewey Peters

A weather broadcaster from the author's childhood.

Wally Kinnan

A WWII B-17 bomber pilot who became a weather broadcaster in Cleveland, Ohio.

Dick Goddard

A legendary weather forecaster in northeast Ohio, holding the Guinness World Record for longest career as a weather forecaster at 51 years and 6 days.

Bob Wells

Also known as "Hoolihan the Weather Man", a weather broadcaster in Cleveland known for his entertaining style and splashy graphics in the 1960s and 1970s.

Larry Cosgrove

A weather geek who worked as a TV meteorologist for WSYX in Columbus, Ohio in the 1980s.

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What they’re saying

“Sunshine to you no matter what the weather.”

— Bob Wells, "Hoolihan the Weather Man"

The takeaway

This story highlights how weather reporting has evolved from straightforward radio and TV broadcasts to a more visually-driven, dramatic, and sometimes politicized form of journalism. Despite the technological advances, the author believes true weather knowledge and expertise remain essential for effective forecasting and communication.