Jeff Mackel

Jeff grew up outside Cleveland in Mentor, Ohio. His fascination with lake-effect snow spawned his interest in weather, but it wasn't until later in his career that he found out he was passionate about weather.

He attended the University of Toledo and received a Bachelor of Arts in broadcast communications in 1997. His first job was behind the scenes for seven years working on everything from driving live trucks to being a technical director for newscasts.

While working behind the scenes, he realized his love for weather, so he decided to go back to school. He attended Mississippi State University and finished his courses in the broadcast meteorology program.

In 2003, Jeff went to Lansing, Mich., at WLNS, where he worked as a weather anchor and reporter. When he wasn't filling in for the other meteorologists, he reported on the daily news.

He is proud to come back home to serve the community in which he was raised. In his spare time, Jeff likes to play recreational sports and go running with his dog, Zach.

You can e-mail Jeff at: Mackel@newsnet5.com