October 21,  2026

Bill Marino

Retired NWS

Meteorologist

Winter 2026/2027 Outlook

Bill began his professional journey after graduating from the University of Michigan in December 1975. In September 1976, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force, quickly rising to the rank of Captain by 1980. During his time in the Air Force, Bill developed a strong foundation in meteorology, which would shape the rest of his career. After separating from the Air Force in 1984, Bill transitioned into civilian service as a lead weather forecaster for the Air Force at Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska. In September 1985, he joined the National Weather Service (NWS) at Detroit Metropolitan Airport as an observer, advancing to the role of forecaster in 1987. He later moved to Ann Arbor before being promoted to lead forecaster in Grand Rapids in 1995. During his time in Michigan, Bill became an expert in forecasting Michigan winters and the complexities of lake effect snow. With decades of experience in both military and civilian meteorology, Bill retired from the NWS in December 2022, leaving behind a legacy of expertise in weather forecasting, especially in challenging winter conditions.  Even in retirement, Bill continues to provide his weather analyses through his weather blog at snowstormbill.wordpress.com.