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
'Thunder in the winter means snow': Is that real? Big Weather dug through the data to find out
Is there any truth to the old saying that thunder in the winter means it will snow in the next 10 days? Big Weather dug through the data to find out.
Can we control the weather? ABC11 meteorologist Don Schwenneker explains
ABC11 meteorologist Don Schwenneker answers questions on weather and how storms move.
The Moon Illusion: Why does the moon look so huge?
When you see a giant moon on the horizon, it really isn't THAT big. Here's an explanation.
Big Weather breaks down the essentials of his hurricane emergency kit
Do you have a weather emergency plan?
Big Weather's Big Recipe: Crockpot Sah-Weet Beans
Check out Big Weather's Big Recipe for some sweet beans made in a slow cooker.
Big Weather's Big Recipe: Taco Bowl
Check out Big Weather's Big Recipe for a delicious taco bowl.
Big Weather's Big Recipe: Stove Top Mostaccioli
Check out Big Weather's Big Recipe for a stove top mostaccioli.
Big Weather's Big Recipe: Southwestern Quiche
Check out Big Weather's Big Recipe for a southwestern style quiche.
Big Weather's Big Recipe: Chili Mac & Cheese
Check out Big Weather's Big Recipe for chili mac & cheese.
Big Weather's Big Recipe: No-Peek Chicken
Check out Big Weather's Big Recipe for no-peek chicken.