Beloved TV Reporter & Meteorologist Leaves CT Station

After more than 22 years at the station, popular meteorologist and reporter Melissa Cole announced she is leaving WFSB-TV Channel 3.

"That’s a wrap!" Cole wrote on Facebook on Friday.

"22+years at WFSB and 27+ years in TV news. Sad that it’s ending but thankful that it happened and will miss these amazing people the most. The best coworkers a girl could ask for."

Cole, a Connecticut native, had transitioned early last year from full-time meteorologist to part-time reporter and fill-in weather forecaster, in part to be able to spend more time with her two children.

She thanked fans for their support.

"Thank you to all of you who have watched me over the years," Cole wrote. "Your kindness and support has meant so much."

She will be missed at the station.

"We love you Melissa!" anchor Kara Sundlun wrote on Facebook. "Melissa Cole is our ray of sunshine and the newsroom won’t be the same without her gentle smile and delicious treats! She is our own Martha Stewart!

"After 22 years of bringing you weather and stories across the state Melissa is moving on. We had our kids together, spent way too many nights in hotels for storms and lots of conversation about all things parenting! I know our friendship will continue on always."

Read More:

• Trampoline Park Melee Leads To Heavy Police Response
• Teacher Hurt, Juveniles Charged After Fight At School: Reports
• Popular Restaurant Abruptly Closes

Added public relations executive and former news anchor Irene O'Connor, "The BEST in the business!! My dear friend, you will be missed on TV!! Channel 3 viewers were so lucky to have you all these years and I will always remember anchoring with you way back in the day."

Cole joined WFSB in 2003, after working at WIVT in Binghamton, New York and WHP in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

She studied Meteorology at Villanova University, and says that her love of weather dates back to her childhood.

As for what's next, Cole said the slate is wide open.

"No idea what’s next for me but going to take a breath and enjoy the slowness for a bit."