Longtime Boston Local Meteorologist Harvey Leonard Retires

NEEDHAM, MA — One of Boston's most beloved meteorologists retired Wednesday after more than 50 years on the air.

Harvey Leonard, who spent the last 25 years as WCVB Channel 5's chief meteorologist will retire from weeknight appearances on NewsCenter 5 on May 25, the station reported. From there, he will transition to the position of chief meteorologist emeritus this fall. WCVB says he will work to contribute to severe weather and climate coverage.

Leonard worked as chief meteorologist for WPRI-TV in Providence, Rhode Island for three years before making his way to Boston as a meteorologist for WHDH-Channel 7 News where he worked from 1977-2002.

During his 20-year tenure at Channel 7, Leonard was named "Best Meteorologist" by Boston Magazine in 1984, '86, '88, and '92. Leonard was also a meteorologist for radio station WROR-FM in 1980.

Leonard joined WCVB in 2002 as StormTeam 5's co-chief meteorologist alongside Dick Albert, who retired in 2009.

According to WCVB, Leonard "has been a mentor to many aspiring meteorologists, and today well over a dozen of his protégé serve as on-air meteorologists in markets across the country."

The decision on who will be taking his place as chief meteorologist will be announced at a later date, WCVB management said.