WRAL meteorologist Greg Fishel takes medical leave

WRAL announced Monday afternoon that its chief meteorologist Greg Fishel will be out on medical leave for almost two months.

“I want to let you know that our friend and colleague Greg Fishel is currently taking medical leave,” WRAL vice president and general manager Steve Hammel said on Monday.

“All of us here wish him a speedy recovery. The plan is for Greg to be back and on the air by late March.”

The station made the announcement on Monday’s newscasts starting at 5:15 p.m. and on their website.

Hammel said that meteorologist Mike Maze will take over duties for Fishel, who has been with WRAL since 1981. Maze will handle the weekday 5 p.m., 6 p.m. and 11 p.m. newscasts. Meteorologist Aimee Wilmoth will fill in for Maze at 4 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. three days a week, in addition to her normal weekend duties.

On the TV station’s Facebook page, viewers were encouraged to leave well wishes for Fishel:

“We know Greg would appreciate your well wishes and prayers. Please feel free to leave them here and we will make sure he sees them.”

Viewers can also send Fishel cards or notes care of the station.

Greg Fishel

WRAL-TV

​2619 Western Blvd.

Raleigh, NC 27606

This story was originally published February 5, 2018 at 6:15 PM.