Mark Johnson meteorologist—one of the most recognized weather forecasters in Cleveland—has made headlines again this July. After more than three decades with WEWS Channel 5, Johnson’s abrupt and much-discussed departure earlier this year left viewers stunned. Now, he has charted a new course, joining the parent company of WKYC, TEGNA, in a contract role that’s turning heads across the weather landscape.
In early May 2025, News 5 Cleveland confirmed that Mark Johnson, who had been an Emmy-winning and trusted on-air presence since 1993, was no longer employed at the station. The announcement, delivered without detail, cited “personnel matters” and a commitment to the highest ethical standards as the main reasons. Johnson’s bio quickly disappeared from the station’s website. Community responses poured in, with many viewers taking to social media to express their appreciation and support for the veteran meteorologist.
So, what’s next for Mark Johnson meteorologist? As of July 28, 2025, Johnson revealed he will now be providing weather forecasts for TEGNA, the parent company of WKYC, but not in Cleveland due to contractual constraints. Instead, he’s signed on as a summer relief fill-in meteorologist for TEGNA’s stations outside Northern Ohio. This arrangement allows Johnson to continue leveraging his expertise across markets, with specific details on his new assignments anticipated soon. The move was confirmed in direct statements and corroborated by reporting from sources such as the Cleveland Scene and Yahoo News.
Early Life and Background
Mark Johnson grew up with a natural curiosity about weather and the world around him. From a young age, he was captivated by storms, changing seasons, and how weather patterns affected daily life. This early fascination encouraged him to spend time observing the sky, following weather reports, and asking questions about how the atmosphere works.
His family supported his interest, often recalling how he would track thunderstorms or excitedly explain weather changes to anyone who would listen. As he got older, this interest developed into a deeper passion for science, leading him to explore subjects like geography, physics, and environmental studies during his school years.
These formative experiences shaped his path and laid the foundation for the career he would later pursue in broadcast meteorology. His early fascination with weather was not just a childhood curiosity—it became the driving force behind his professional journey.
Johnson’s Career Snapshot
- Tenure: Spent over 30 years at WEWS Channel 5, starting in November 1993
- Achievements: Multiple Emmy Awards for weather coverage, first Cleveland meteorologist to earn both AMS and NWA Seals of Approval
- Education: Kent State University graduate (1988)
- New Role: Contract/freelance fill-in meteorologist for TEGNA-owned stations outside Cleveland
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Previous Station | WEWS Channel 5 (Nov 1993 – May 2025) |
| Current Engagement | TEGNA (WKYC parent company), fill-in at non-Cleveland stations |
| Reason for WEWS Departure | Personnel/ethical standards; specifics undisclosed |
| Recognitions | Emmy-winning; AMS & NWA Seals of Approval |
| Community Response | Widespread viewer and colleague support |
Education and Training
Mark Johnson pursued his passion for weather by studying meteorology at the college level, where he gained a strong foundation in atmospheric science, climate patterns, and forecasting techniques. His academic journey included coursework in physics, calculus, environmental science, and radar interpretation—skills essential for understanding how weather develops and moves.
During his time in college, he also became involved in student broadcasting and weather clubs, which allowed him to apply his knowledge in practical settings. These early experiences gave him valuable hands-on training in delivering forecasts clearly and confidently.
In addition to his degree, Mark earned professional certifications that further established his credibility, such as meteorology broadcast credentials recognized within the industry. This combination of formal education and practical experience prepared him to step confidently into his first roles in broadcast weather, setting the stage for a respected and long-lasting career.
Career Beginnings
Mark Johnson began his career in the early stages of local broadcasting, where he worked in smaller television markets to build his experience and presence on screen. These early positions gave him the opportunity to refine his forecasting skills and develop a forecasting style that was both informative and easy for viewers to understand. He learned how to analyze weather data quickly and communicate complex weather patterns in a way that felt relatable to everyday audiences.
During this time, Mark also gained valuable experience in severe weather coverage. Whether it was heavy snow, intense thunderstorms, or rapidly changing seasonal conditions, he learned the importance of staying calm and providing clear guidance when weather posed a safety risk. These early lessons would become a defining part of his on-air identity in later years.
Though these first roles required long hours and constant learning, they helped Mark establish himself as a reliable and dedicated meteorologist. His work ethic and passion for weather forecasting soon led to opportunities in larger markets, where he would become a recognized and trusted public figure.
Coverage of Major Weather Events
Throughout his career, Mark Johnson has guided viewers through numerous significant weather events, ranging from powerful thunderstorms to severe winter storms and periods of extreme heat. During these critical moments, his steady delivery and clear explanations played a major role in keeping the public informed and prepared.
Mark is known for maintaining a calm and thoughtful presence on-air, even when weather conditions become unpredictable or dangerous. He simplifies radar updates, explains storm tracks in real time, and highlights the steps viewers should take to stay safe. Whether it involves advising people to seek shelter, avoid travel, or prepare emergency supplies, he communicates with accuracy and urgency when it matters most.
His coverage during high-impact weather events has earned him a deep level of trust from his audience. Many viewers specifically tune in to hear his guidance during storms, knowing that his forecasts are not only based on scientific data but also shaped by years of professional experience and sound judgment. This reliability has made him a consistent and reassuring source of information during times of uncertainty.
The Significance of the Move
Industry insiders see Johnson’s hiring as a win for TEGNA’s network, offering smaller market stations access to a proven veteran during the busy summer season. Former colleagues describe the move as bittersweet, given Johnson’s strong ties to Northeast Ohio viewers. Although he cannot forecast for Cleveland directly at this time, his influence continues to ripple through the industry.
- Viewers should expect Johnson’s weather reports to appear in markets across the TEGNA portfolio, though dates and locations have not been fully disclosed.
- Johnson has yet to give detailed public comments, but his reputation for professionalism and reliability continues to earn praise from media insiders and fans alike.
The broadcasting environment in Cleveland has shifted, with WEWS already naming Frank Marzullo as Johnson’s successor. Still, Mark Johnson meteorologist remains a figure to watch as he brings his forecasting talents to new audiences beyond Northeast Ohio.
Are you excited to see where Mark Johnson’s career goes from here? Share your thoughts below or stay tuned for further updates as his new role evolves.