After 27 years with WBRC Fox 6, longtime meteorologist and producer Fred Hunter will retire on April 30.

Hunter started with WBRC in 1997, but before then he worked at local television stations in Austin, Texas; Myrtle Beach, South Carolina; and in Tuscaloosa.

Originally from Fort Payne, Hunter graduated from the University of Alabama with undergraduate and graduate degrees in broadcast-film, journalism and public relations. Hunter then went to Mississippi State University to become certified by the National Weather Association from the meteorology program.

During Hunter’s time at WBRC, he covered all major weather events across Alabama like the deadly tornadoes of April 27, 2011, Snowmageddon in 2014, and many tropical storms across the southeast region.

Hunter also became known for the Christmas tradition of traveling across the state highlighting some of the best stories of the previous year, on “Absolutely Alabama”.

“I am filled with gratitude and love for the viewers who have welcomed me into their homes over three decades,” Hunter said in a WBRC press release. “It has been an honor to share your stories.” He continued, “I look forward to having quality time with my family, to rejoin my church family, and the freedom to do something new.”

Hunter has been recognized and rewarded for his work throughout the years from notable organizations like The Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association, Jefferson County Historical Commission, Daughters of the American Revolution, Alabama Broadcasters Association, and Alabama Department of Tourism.

According to a press release, Hunter plans to spend time with his grandchildren and pursue outside interests.