After spending more than 30 years as WTVG-TV, Channel 13's top meteorologist, Stan Stachak announced he will step down, effective April 23.

WTVG-TV, Channel 13 ABC President and General Manager John Christianson has appointed Jay Berschback as Stachak's successor. "Blizzard" Bill Spencer will replace Berschback on the station's Action News Good Morning.

A national search is under way to replace Spencer on weekends.

Stachak's career began in Colorado in 1978 before he returned to Toledo to take his place at Channel 13 in 1980. He oversaw many technological advances during his tenure and won praise for his 2002 coverage of tornado outbreaks in northwest Ohio, as well as comprehensive coverage of flooding, snow storms, and other sever weather in the Toledo area.

"Stachak is a professional who cares deeply about the safety of viewers during severe weather situations," said Brian Trauring, Channel 13 and SJL Broadcasting executive news director. "The goal is to continue to build on the proud tradition of coverage that Stan has built at the station."

Stachak will continue to be a member of the station's First Warning Storm Team through the end of May and will return to the station periodically to forecast weather.

First Published April 5, 2012, 7:38 a.m.