Chicago forecaster dies from lung cancer

By MixDex Article may include affiliate links

Chicago meteorologist Mike Hamernik has died, his sister confirmed on Twitter.

Hamernik, who was part of WGN’s “WeatherCenter” team, died March 10, 2021, from lung cancer.

He was 60.

Hamernik joined WGN in 2005 after three years with the now defunct sister cable network CLTV.

I am Mike’s sister, Kathleen; I am here with the heart-breaking news that our dear meteorologist died this morning from lung cancer. He was home, surrounded by love and at peace. Please know he cherished all of you, his Twitter followers & weather enthusiasts. ♥️⛈❄️☔️☀️

— Mike Hamernik (@MikeHamernik) March 10, 2021

Hamernik was a Chicago native and had an early interest in weather, including studying printed weather maps that WGN’s then chief meteorologist Harry Volkman gave him, according to WGN.

The younger Hamernik’s father, Donald, was a musician for Bozo’s Circus and Artists’ Showcase, two classic WGN shows.