RENOWNED meteorologist Gary England who starred in the hit movie Twister has died at the age of 85.
England was a weatherman on the TV station KWTV for more than four decades before his retirement in 2013.
The meteorologist, from Oklahoma, died peacefully with his family by his side on June 10, as reported by the ABC affiliate KOCO-TV.
“Gary was proud to have protected Oklahoma from its deadliest storms,” his family said.
“He will be deeply and forever missed.”
England was the first weatherman to use Doppler radar when warning viewers about the risks of tornadoes.
The weather forecaster was famous for his down-to-earth style of presenting and had a habit of kicking off his Friday weather forecasts with the phrase “It’s Friday night in the big town.”
He made a cameo appearance in the 1996 film Twister, which starred Helen Hunt and Bill Paxton. The movie was nominated for two Oscars.
England reported on the 1999 Bridge Creek-Moore tornado, which ripped through Oklahoma City.
Winds of more than 300 mph were reported and 36 people were killed.
“The sheer intensity and violence of it was unbelievable,” England told The Oklahoman.
“We saw the power lines down, and I knew there were people out there dying. It was not a fun evening.”
He warned those who were set to be most affected by the storm to shelter underground.
“Most of the people that died were right in the core of the tornado,” he said.
“It killed 40 or so people and injured 800 or so. Wow!
“But I love what I do and I’m still here.”
Tributes have poured in after news of the weatherman’s death emerged.
“A renowned meteorologist and an even better person passed away. He served as a wonderful inspiration for anyone interested in weather,” storm chaser Brad Arnold shared on X.
Journalists have described England as a legend.
“The meteorology world has lost a legend. Gary England of Oklahoma,” Rusty Surette said.
“This man saved countless lives during tornadoes, and I’m honored I worked side by side with Gary for several years.
“He was a pioneer in severe weather broadcasting and a trusted voice for generations of Oklahomans.
“Jump back and rest in peace, sir.”
David Payne, the chief meteorologist for KWTV, described England as “one of a kind.”
“There will only ever be one Gary England – an Oklahoman through through,” he wrote on social media.
“He was truly unique, and the contributions he made to our region, the field of meteorology, and the tracking of severe weather will leave a lasting impact for many years to come.”
Colton Williams revealed England was the reason he became a weatherman.
“I was fortunate to exchange a few emails from him as a kid, and he even sent me a signed copy of his book,” he wrote on X.
“I appreciate that sentiment now more than I did when I was a kid.”
