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.
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 |
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.