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.
Tributes have poured in after news of the weatherman’s death emerged.
“The world lost a legendary meteorologist and an even better person. He was a fantastic role model for any weather enthusiast,” 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.”
England’s reporting on tornadoes saw him make a cameo appearance in the film Twister, which starred Helen Hunt and Bill Paxton.
