"When Mother Nature goes into overtime, I go into overtime!" That’s the philosophy Meteorologist Phil Johnson brings to the WDIO/WIRT weather team. Phil previously worked at KDLH TV as the chief meteorologist from January 1996 to March of 2005. During that time, Phil has covered the full gamut of Northland weather - from the record cold of February 1996 to the devastating tornado that struck Siren, Wisconsin. Phil says, "It really is a 24-hour job. Each month of the year can bring such variety, and the lake is a fascinating influence on local weather...there’s always something going on with that lake!"

Phil graduated in 1993 from Western Illinois University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Geography - emphasis in meteorology.

During his final year of college Phil landed a part-time job at KHQA TV in Quincy, IL. After graduation, he took the full time job as the morning meteorologist. During his 2½ years in Quincy, Phil found himself in the middle of several violent tornado outbreaks and the devastating record flood levels of the Mississippi River in the summer of 1993.

The move to Duluth was a "natural." While in college, Phil had done a report on the "Mega-Storm" of October 1991 - that memorable early season storm that brought three feet of snow to Duluth in a two-day period. Phil also remembered the numerous tales of Minnesota weather from his father (a native of Fergus Falls). It all added up to an opportunity that Phil just couldn’t resist.

The weather may have a supernatural hold on Phil, but his greatest love is his wife Adrienne, and daughters Lilli and Victoria. And when not changing diapers Phil, tries his best to sneak in a round of golf or a couple of runs down Spirit Mountain - whichever the weather will allow! During the school year Phil visits dozens of local schools and is often asked to speak to local groups and organizations. Phil is a member of the American Meteorological Society.