Brian Hutton Jr.: The Hometown Meteorologist Bringing Clarity to Pittsburgh’s Storms
When the clouds darken over Western Pennsylvania, residents look for a voice that understands more than just the radar—they look for someone who knows the streets, the hills, and the heart of the region.
Enter Brian Hutton Jr., a meteorologist at WTAE-TV whose career is a masterclass in professional precision and hometown pride.
Since joining Pittsburgh’s Action News 4, Hutton has transitioned from a weekend favorite to a weekday staple.
Known for his calm demeanor during high-stakes weather events, he doesn’t just read the forecast; he explains it.
Whether it’s a winter “clipper” or a summer storm, Brian’s journey from a young boy in Johnstown to a leading voice in Pittsburgh media is a story of coming home.
A Journey Back to Western Pennsylvania
Brian Hutton Jr. isn’t just a face on the screen; he’s a local through and through. Born and raised in Johnstown, PA, Brian developed an early fascination with the atmospheric shifts that define the Rust Belt.
He attended Conemaugh Valley High School, graduating in 2005 with a focus on advanced academics.
His academic path stayed close to his roots, leading him to PennWest California (formerly California University of Pennsylvania).
It was here that he earned his Bachelor of Science in Meteorology in 2009. More importantly, it was here that he met his future wife, Jenny, a native of Monroeville.
This local connection has always anchored his career, making his eventual return to Pittsburgh in 2021 feel less like a job change and more like a homecoming.
The Career Path: From the South to the Steel City
Before he was a fixture on WTAE, Brian “paid his dues” across the country, gaining experience with some of the most volatile weather patterns in America.
Mississippi State University: Brian earned his Master of Science in Broadcast Meteorology (2009–2011) and later became an Adjunct Lecturer there, a role he has held for nearly a decade.
WTOK-TV (Mississippi): He spent over eight years here, rising to the rank of Chief Meteorologist. He is often remembered for his life-saving reporting during an EF-4 tornado, where he guided viewers through safety protocols in real-time.
WNCN-TV (North Carolina): Brian served as the weekend evening meteorologist in Raleigh, tackling hurricanes and coastal shifts before the pull of Pennsylvania became too strong to ignore.
The Big Move: WTAE-TV and Recent Promotions
Brian joined WTAE in April 2021, initially filling the weekend morning slot. His impact was immediate. Viewers appreciated his “steady voice” and his ability to integrate ClimateTech and global warming data into local forecasts.
In September 2025, WTAE announced a significant shift in their weather team. Brian was promoted to the weekday Noon and 4 p.m. newscasts, joining anchors Kelly Sasso and Andrew Stockey.
News Director Baylor Long praised Brian’s “commitment to delivering clear, impactful weather information through innovative forecasting.”
Brian Hutton Jr. at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
| Full Name | Brian Hutton Jr. |
| Current Role | Weekday Meteorologist (Noon & 4 PM), WTAE-TV |
| Education | M.S. Broadcast Meteorology, Mississippi State University |
| Hometown | Johnstown, Pennsylvania |
| Wife | Jenny (from Monroeville) |
| Specialties | Severe Weather Safety, Climate Change, Geography |
| Awards/Certs | National Weather Association Seal of Approval |
Behind the Scenes: Personal Life and Impact
While Brian is a public figure, he keeps his personal life grounded. He and his wife, Jenny, are often cited as a “Cal U” success story.
Outside of the green screen, Brian remains an educator. As a lecturer for Mississippi State’s distance learning program, he teaches courses like Intro to Meteorology and World Geography, shaping the next generation of weather experts.
His “humanity first” approach to reporting was most evident during his time in Kentucky and Mississippi.
By choosing compassion over sensationalism, he built a reputation as a reporter who treats every viewer like a neighbor—because, in Pittsburgh, they are.
What’s Next for Brian?
As we move into 2026, Brian is expected to further integrate digital-first forecasting into the WTAE platform.
With his background in education and climate tech, he is uniquely positioned to help Pittsburghers understand not just if it will rain, but why the patterns are shifting.
Interact with Brian: Have you caught Brian’s midday forecast? Share your favorite “Hutton Weather Tip” in the comments below!
Sources & Further Reading
WTAE-TV Official Staff Profiles
TribLIVE: TV Talk – WTAE Hires New Meteorologist (March 2021)
PBRTV: WTAE-TV to Switch Weather Guys Around (July 2025)
NewsBlues: Brian Hutton Jr. Moves to Weekdays (July 2025)
LinkedIn: Brian Hutton Jr. Professional Timeline
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