Introduction to Frank Wachowski
CHICAGO (WGN) — Frank Wachowski and Tom Skilling go way back. For decades, he provided critical data for WGN forecasts, often from his home. The wind speed gauge atop the roof of his South Side bungalow is just one of many devices he has nurtured in his garden of instruments.
A Weather Observation Station
Wachowski has converted his home into a veritable weather observation station, the likes of which may not exist anywhere else in the United States of America. And it all started in a chicken coop. “My dad had an old chicken coop, and I turned it into a weather office,” he said.
Early Fascination with Weather
His early fascination with the weather sparked some concern. “My aunt came over and she said, ‘What’s he doing in the window?’ He watches thunderstorms [was the answer],’” Wachowski said. “She said, ‘He’s crazy!’ [Then] she said, ‘You better be careful with that kid.’”
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A Career in Weather
Years later, in 1956, Wachowski landed his dream job with the National Weather Service. He was 18 years old. First stationed at Midway International Airport and later, O’Hare, he meticulously recorded every tornado, heatwave and blizzard that hit Chicago.
Recognition and Service
Along the way, he was recognized for his unwavering service over the past 69 years and counting. Perhaps the only timeline more impressive than the length of his professional career in weather is the centuries of weather info found in Wachowski’s home.
Centuries of Weather Records
There are nearly 150 years of records in his basement. Frank rescued the now-digitized handwritten charts—produced after the Chicago Fire destroyed earlier documents—from the garbage bin.
A Constant in the Atmosphere
Skilling: if there is one constant in our atmosphere, it’s Frank Wachowski. At 87 years old, Chicago’s official weather observer has no plans to slow down. “I’m the only one in the country now that takes sunshine readings, so a person came up to me and said, ‘Frank, you’re the only one that records sunshine.’ I said ’Yeah.’ ‘When are you going to retire?’ I said, ‘When the sun sets,’” Wachowski said. “I look at it this way, I enjoy every minute of what I’m doing.”
A True Friend and Resource
Skilling: Frank has been a true friend to me and an invaluable resource for our meteorology team at WGN. He’s arranged for all his records to go to the National Weather Service when he’s no longer with us.
Conclusion
Frank Wachowski’s dedication to weather observation and recording is truly impressive. His career spanning over 69 years is a testament to his passion for weather. His home, converted into a weather observation station, is a unique and valuable resource for the National Weather Service and the WGN meteorology team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long has Frank Wachowski been working in weather observation?
A: Frank Wachowski has been working in weather observation for over 69 years.
Q: What is unique about Frank Wachowski’s home?
A: Frank Wachowski’s home has been converted into a veritable weather observation station, with numerous devices and instruments to record and observe weather patterns.
Q: How old is Frank Wachowski?
A: Frank Wachowski is 87 years old.
Q: What will happen to Frank Wachowski’s records when he is no longer with us?
A: Frank Wachowski has arranged for all his records to go to the National Weather Service when he is no longer with us.
Q: Why is Frank Wachowski important to the WGN meteorology team?
A: Frank Wachowski is an invaluable resource for the WGN meteorology team, providing critical data for WGN forecasts and being a true friend to Tom Skilling and the team.
