Don Schwenneker
Don joined Eyewitness News from Chicago where he served as a meteorologist for WBBM-TV. Prior to that, Don worked for WTAE-TV in Pittsburgh, and WTAJ-TV in Altoona, Pennsylvania. He began his weather career over 20 years ago as a lead forecaster for KBIM-TV in Roswell, New Mexico.
As for his moniker, "Big Weather," Don was given that nickname by a colleague for two reasons. First, he's 6'5" and one of the taller meteorologists on TV. Second, during big weather events from tornadoes to flood warnings, Don was always on TV. So whenever there was big weather in the forecast, "Big Weather" was on TV. And the name has stuck ever since!
Don's family comes first in his life. He's married and has three children. He was also a volunteer firefighter for 7 years in Pennsylvania. He is a certified rescue technician & first responder. In addition to firefighting, Don's public service includes Police, Fire, and EMS dispatching and national certification as a 911 call-taker/dispatcher.
Don is also ABC11's resident food expert. He showcases his talent for flavor every Friday in his Big Recipe segment.
Don's Stories
What sex is your tree? And what does it mean for pollen?
Can the trees we plant affect our level of pollen? We asked an expert.
How the wind chill cools you down
Windchill measures the rate at which the human body loses heat.
How to prepare a winter weather safety kit for the season
With another possible storm on the way, now is the time to make sure you have everything for an emergency.
Cold temperatures can be dangerous for your pets; What to look for
Winter poses significant risks to all pets, with some animals more vulnerable than others.
Snow day? How NC's largest school district decides to delay or close during winter weather
The district must account for bus riders, student drivers, and employees alike. Safe travel to and from school is non-negotiable.
NC fall colors will come and go faster this year due to drought conditions
Bright colors are more likely when a couple of conditions are met heading into the season.
Hitting the Century Mark: A look back at 100-degree days in Raleigh, Durham, Sandhills
We already hit the century mark twice this year, and we're headed that way again this weekend.
North Carolina now in top 5 states for lightning deaths; Tips for storm safety
July ranks highest in terms of lightning-related deaths and injuries in the United States.
Heat Safety Tips: Ways to stay cool during the heat wave
Heat is the number one weather killer in the United States.
How NC emergency management prepares for hurricanes, tropical storms; how you can too
"It may not be the traditional category 3, 4, or 5 hurricane. A tropical storm can have major impacts to our state."