NORFOLK, Va. — After serving as 13News Now's chief meteorologist for 33 years, Jeff Lawson delivered his final forecast to Hampton Roads Wednesday during WVEC's 6 p.m. newscast.
"Well, it is finally that time," he said during a farewell message to viewers. "Forty-three years ago, when I started my career, I never could have imagined that I would end up here."
Lawson arrived at WVEC in 1990 after working as a meteorologist at WWBT in Richmond and Fox 5 in D.C. Before that, he worked at private companies doing forecasts for a variety of clients, like ski resorts, radio stations, school systems, Newport News Shipbuilding and even other TV weather forecasters who were not meteorologists.
"My new fiancée, Denise, convinced me we should move back to her hometown of Virginia Beach, and the rest, as they say, is history," he said.
"Here I am many decades later, never having imagined that I would be here for as long as I have, or that I could have worked at such a wonderful station, where I was given the freedom to make my own 'out on a limb' forecasts."
After forecasting continuously for Hampton Roads for 43 years, Jeff plans to retire with his wife and travel.
"Thanks for letting me into your homes for all these years," he continued. "Thanks for being so supportive through the tough times, like removing part of my tongue twice for cancer, as well as celebrating the good times with me. I've gotten to meet thousands of you over the years and I hope you'll continue to say hi if you see me out and about."
Jeff has handed off the title of chief meteorologist to Tim Pandajis, who returned to Norfolk and WVEC on November 6.
"I leave you in good hands," he said. "Tim will do a wonderful job replacing me. We worked together for years, and he is a wonderful meteorologist and person."
"And of course, I can't forget Craig and Evan. With exactly 50 years of experience between them here at 13News Now, I am confident that they will continue to provide the best forecasts in the market. And while Frances and Taylor might not have 50 years of experience yet, they are very talented and also do a great job.
"So, thanks again, and I'll see you around town!"