Meteorologist Ilona McCauley, KIRO 7 News

I’m Ilona McCauley, a degreed Meteorologist of 26 years, recognized by the American Meteorological Society with a Seal of Approval. Join me on KIRO 7 News for your most up-to-date forecast. Seven Questions with Ilona: Where did you grow up? Phoenix, AZ Why did you become a Meteorologist? I LOVE science! While I was in college, I took an introductory to meteorology class and I was hooked. I find the weather fascinating and love explaining it to people. It truly is a science that affects us all and impacts our everyday life. What cities have you worked in during your journalism career? Medford, OR, Phoenix, AZ and Austin, TX What’s the most memorable story you’ve ever covered? While I was working in Texas, I traveled to Beaumont, TX to cover Hurricane Rita making landfall. It was fascinating to see the power of Mother Nature at work and unfortunate to see the devastation it left behind. But, perhaps the most important part was seeing strangers coming together to help each other when they need it the most. What are you most proud of in your career in news? During my time in Austin, I was nominated for "Best Weathercaster" by the Associated Press. While I came in 2nd Place, I was honored that my work was recognized by my peers. More important than awards to me though is knowing that I have been entrusted with a powerful media giving me the ability to connect with viewers and able to educate them on the science of forecasting the weather. What’s something people don’t know about you? In addition to being a degreed meteorologist, I also earned my teaching certification. I spent 2 years teaching while in TX.....you guessed it, science! When I'm not on the air at KIRO, I also work as a substitute teacher in Everett School District. What do you like to do when you’re not working? While I LOVE my jobs, my greatest joy and accomplishment is being a mom to 2 teenage girls, a wife of 18 years to my husband and a fur-mom to our German Shepard rescue. Our family stays busy with volleyball and softball games, enjoying the beautiful Pacific Northwest outdoors and spending time with family and friends.