WLEX (Lexington) meteorologist Jill Szwed is headed to the Empire State.

Szwed is going to Nexstar’s WTEN, replacing Jess Briganti who left back in March.

“I’ve enjoyed the warmer climate over the past several years, but I also miss ‘real’ winter weather,” Szwed says. “My passion for the weather was sparked by snow and winter weather. My parents have pictures of me out in the snow in the middle of the Blizzard of ’93 … I’m excited to get back to my roots and forecast some real deal snow this winter.”

She signs off in Kentucky next week.

“I am so excited to call the Capital Region my new home and to wake up with you each morning on News 10 ABC. I know how important the weather is, especially as you and your family are starting the day,” says the meteorologist. “I can’t wait to explore everything that the Northeast has to offer. I’m looking forward to (eventually) taking in some horse racing at Saratoga, marveling at the beautiful fall foliage and experiencing winter for the first time in four years.”

H/T Times-Union