Melser with WBAL’s Mindy Basara

Lowell Melser, a general assignment reporter and meteorologist at WBAL-TV for 20 years, is now with Baltimore County as chief public information officer.

In a Facebook post, Melser wrote:

I have some bittersweet news…after a lot of soul searching, consultation with friends colleagues and family members and prayer…I have decided to step down as a Reporter and Meteorologist at WBAL-TV.

I have been here 20 years and am grateful for all of the opportunities, experiences and relationships. General Assignment reporting is a very tough gig. While it is rewarding at times, it can also be a mental drain with some very difficult stories to tell. That is why I went after my Meteorology Degree many years ago, to create a new challenge and a new path and I have enjoyed every minute of bringing you the weather as well.

This isn’t goodbye though. I will still be in the Greater Baltimore Area. I have taken a job with Baltimore County as their Chief Public Information Officer for The Department of Public Works, where I will also be able to take advantage of my Meteorology skills. So you will still see me on TV from time to time and I will be active on social media. Thank you to everyone for being so kind to me over the years, it really means a lot and thank you for having me in your homes each night to deliver the news or the weather.

He worked for WAVY-TV in Norfolk, Alabama News Network and KIFI News Group in Idaho after graduating from Penn State.

Photo: Lowell Melser was known for his goggles while doing severe weather updates.