"I'm excited to serve our community and continue the tradition of excellence as Chief Meteorologist at 13 ON YOUR SIDE. I strive to make my passion for weather both informative and authentic while being a trusted presence for West Michigan," Hansen said.

“Blake has earned this opportunity through his talent, work ethic, and steady connection with West Michigan viewers. Since joining WZZM in 2021, he has grown into a trusted voice on our weather team, bringing both scientific expertise and a calm, relatable presence to our evening newscasts. We’re proud to promote from within and excited for Blake to lead our weather coverage as Chief Meteorologist," 13 ON YOUR SIDE President & General Manager Dan Baylog said.

Hansen is no stranger to Michigan weather. A graduate of Central Michigan University with a Bachelor of Science in Meteorology, he began his broadcast career in 2017 at UpNorthLive in Traverse City, where he covered severe weather and winter storms across Northern Michigan, eventually serving as the station's weekday morning meteorologist.

He has worked exclusively in Michigan throughout his career.

"We opened a nationwide search for 13 ON YOUR SIDE's next Chief Meteorologist, but the ideal candidate was already here at the station. Blake has lived in Michigan his whole life and understands our weather, from lake-effect snow to springtime pop-up tornadoes and everything in between," News Director Ashley Talley said.