CLEVELAND—On May 9, 2025, WEWS Channel 5 announced a significant change in its weather team, confirming that Meteorologist Mark Johnson is no longer employed by the station after an impressive 32-year tenure. The abrupt announcement sent shockwaves through the community and left viewers grappling with the departure of a trusted figure in local weather reporting.
Steve Weinstein, the Vice President and General Manager of WEWS, issued a statement emphasizing the station’s commitment to integrity and public trust. "We want our audiences to know that News 5 and its parent company, Scripps, take protecting our audiences’ trust very seriously by requiring our employees to adhere to the highest ethical standards. We cannot provide further details, as this is a personnel matter," Weinstein said. This lack of clarity surrounding Johnson's exit has prompted speculation and conversation across social media platforms.
Johnson joined WEWS in November 1993, quickly establishing himself as a skilled meteorologist with a knack for making complex weather patterns accessible to viewers. Over the years, he earned multiple Emmy Awards for his work, solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in broadcast meteorology. His certifications from the American Meteorological Society (AMS) and the National Weather Association (NWA) further enhanced his standing in the industry.
During his time at Channel 5, Johnson became synonymous with reliable weather forecasts, guiding viewers through Northeast Ohio’s unpredictable climate. Whether it was lake-effect snowstorms or severe thunderstorms, he was a trusted voice for families preparing for the elements. His on-air presence was characterized by professionalism and approachability, which helped cultivate a loyal following.
As news of Johnson's departure spread, many viewers took to social media to express their shock and disappointment. Comments flooded in, with fans praising Johnson's contributions to Cleveland's weather reporting and criticizing WEWS for the lack of transparency surrounding the decision. On Facebook, Johnson's most recent post—a striking image of a lightning bolt behind a tree—drew dozens of comments from supporters wishing him well.
The announcement of Johnson's departure also raised questions about the future of weather reporting at WEWS. The station quickly reassured viewers of its commitment to providing accurate and reliable weather coverage for Northeast Ohio. Weinstein's statement reaffirmed that the search for Johnson's replacement is already underway, underscoring the station's intent to maintain its reputation as a trusted source for weather updates.
Despite the upheaval caused by Johnson's exit, WEWS emphasized its ongoing dedication to weather forecasting. The station has a long history of prioritizing weather coverage, particularly in a region known for its volatile climate, where accurate forecasts can significantly impact public safety. The decision to launch an immediate search for a new meteorologist signals WEWS's commitment to continue providing the quality weather reporting that viewers have come to expect.
The process of replacing Johnson will not be easy, given his long tenure and established reputation. WEWS's leadership is expected to prioritize candidates with strong credentials and the ability to connect with viewers. The station's search comes at a pivotal time, as Cleveland's television market is competitive, with other stations vying for viewership.
As the search progresses, viewers will be watching closely to see who steps into Johnson's role. The new meteorologist will face the challenge of filling the void left by a beloved figure while bringing their own perspective to the weather desk. Factors influencing the search will likely include experience in broadcast meteorology, familiarity with Northeast Ohio's weather patterns, and the ability to engage with a diverse audience.
The mention of "ethical standards" in WEWS's statement drew significant attention, hinting at possible reasons behind Johnson's departure. While the station did not elaborate, this phrase suggested that the decision may have been tied to a breach of professional conduct or company policy. The ambiguity surrounding this issue has led to speculation among viewers, with some questioning whether the matter was related to on-air behavior, internal conflicts, or external factors.
As of May 9, 2025, Mark Johnson had not publicly addressed his departure from WEWS. His only activity on social media was the aforementioned Facebook post, which made no reference to the news. Johnson's silence added to the mystery surrounding his exit, leaving viewers to rely on the station's announcement and their own speculations. Fans expressed hope that Johnson would eventually share his perspective, whether through a formal statement or a new professional venture.
The departure of Mark Johnson comes at a time of transition for Cleveland's weather broadcasting community. In recent years, other prominent meteorologists in the region have made headlines for their own exits, reflecting the evolving nature of the broadcast industry. Cleveland's television stations face pressure to adapt to shifting viewer habits, making the loss of experienced meteorologists like Johnson a significant concern.
In the meantime, WEWS's commitment to weather forecasting remains steadfast. The station has invested in advanced technology, such as radar systems and forecasting tools, to provide precise and timely updates. This infrastructure will play a key role as the station transitions to a new meteorologist, ensuring that viewers continue to receive the information they rely on.
As WEWS moves forward, the station faces the challenge of rebuilding its weather team while maintaining viewer trust. The search for a new meteorologist will be a priority, but the station must also address the broader implications of Johnson's departure. Viewer loyalty, particularly in a close-knit market like Cleveland, can be influenced by changes in on-air talent, making this transition a delicate one.
Overall, the departure of Mark Johnson has left viewers with a mix of nostalgia and uncertainty. For many, his forecasts were a daily ritual, a reliable source of information in a region where weather can change rapidly. The task of replacing him will require WEWS to find someone who can match his expertise while bringing a fresh perspective to the role. As the search unfolds, the station's ability to maintain its status as Northeast Ohio's trusted weather authority will hinge on its next steps, from the selection of a new meteorologist to its ongoing engagement with the community.
