Mike Thomas Promoted To WTTG Evening Meteorologist, Claire Anderson Joins Weather Team

Fox-owned WTTG has named Mike Thomas evening meteorologist, effective immediately, succeeding Sue Palka whose retirement took effect Wednesday. Thomas will report the weather for the 5, 6:30, 10 and 11 p.m. newscasts.

Claire Anderson joins the station on April 18 to replace Thomas in his previous role on the 4-6 a.m. weekday newscasts and will contribute reporting on various topics for Fox 5 Morning and Good Day DC.

Paul McGonagle, WTTG VP and news director, said: “Mike lives and breathes weather. Our viewers know that if there’s a storm coming they can rely on his forecasts at any time of day, whether he’s on TV, streaming live on digital, or posting on social media. Claire has a dynamite personality. Her weather forecasting is clear and easy to understand, which will make her a great addition to Fox 5 Morning and Good Day DC.”

Thomas WTTG in 2014. Prior to this, he worked for the Commodity Weather Group in Bethesda, Md., where he focused on learning forecast techniques, weather model analysis, and extended range and seasonal forecasting. A graduate of Penn State University, Thomas holds a bachelor’s degree in atmospheric sciences and meteorology.

Thomas said: “I grew up in the DC area watching Sue Palka report the weather. She is the best in the business and I am honored to carry on her legacy and for the opportunity to bring my weather knowledge to my hometown, my family, and our viewers every night. I am passionate about the weather in our region and I am excited to bring the same energy I have brought to the morning show for the past eight years, to the best evening news team in DC.”

Most recently, Anderson was a meteorologist for KIRO Seattle. Prior to this, she was a meteorologist for KOIN Portland, Ore. Previously, Anderson spent two years as a weather anchor and reporter for KCOY-KKFX in Santa Barbara, Calif. Before that, she served as a weekend weather anchor and MMJ at KRTV-KXLH Helena, Mont.

Anderson started her career as a weather intern at KOMO Seattle. A graduate of the University of Washington, she holds a degree in communications and is a certified meteorologist through the Mississippi State Broadcast Meteorology Program.