Samantha Jacques

Tegna's WZZM-TV (Grand Rapids) has announced that morning meteorologist Samantha Jacques has been named the new Chief Meteorologist, leading the WZZM/13 Weather Impact Team. Veteran Chief Meteorologist George Lessens is retiring after 44 years in November and announced her new role during the evening newscasts.

“Over the past four years Sam has demonstrated her ability to assume the role of chief meteorologist” said George Lessens.  “She understands what West Michigan viewers want and expect from our team of meteorologists.”

“I'm incredibly honored to be named the next Chief Meteorologist at 13 ON YOUR SIDE. My passion for meteorology, along with the chance to make a positive impact on our community, have been the driving forces that brought me this far,” said Samantha. “My deep love for West Michigan and my commitment to the 13 Weather Impact team will inspire fresh ideas while continuing the trusted approach to forecasting that our viewers know so well.”

“West Michigan viewers depend on the forecast. And they need us to get it right. Sam’s eye for weather and her dedication to the community is infectious and will boost the entire weather team,” commented Brooks Blanton, WZZM News Director. “We could not be more excited to see what Samantha will accomplish as our Chief Meteorologist.”

“We knew right away that Sam would be amazing,” said Dan Baylog, President and General Manager of WZZM. “Her attitude, her leadership, and her drive were all apparent from day one. If you know Sam, you know why she is our top choice for Chief.”

“I can't thank 13 ON YOUR SIDE enough for having confidence in me. I'm excited to serve our community and continue the tradition of excellence in forecasting at 13 ON YOUR SIDE,” said Samantha.

Jacques will remain on the morning shift alongside Tanner Holbrook and Emily Scarlett on 13 ON YOUR SIDE Morning News, while Meteorologist Blake Hansen will take his experience to weeknights, taking over George Lessens’ schedule. Meteorologist Amber Twardy will lead the station’s weekend weather coverage in the mornings.

Before joining WZZM four years ago, Samantha began her broadcast career as weekend meteorologist at 9 & 10 News—while still a junior in college. Working as a teaching assistant, she helped create the first Broadcast Meteorology course offered at Central Michigan University and forecasted the weather every weekend for viewers up north—all while carrying a full class load. After graduating, she took over the mid-day meteorologist position. Samantha came to the station as a Weekend Morning Meteorologist and quickly moved to weekdays. Since then she’s received certification from the American Meteorological Society and won three Regional Emmy awards.