Frank Wachowski's passion for weather: An invaluable resource for Tom Skilling and WGN

CHICAGO (WGN) — Frank Wachowski and Tom Skilling go way back.

For decades, he provided critical data for WGN forecasts, often from his home.

The wind speed gauge atop the roof of his South Side bungalow is just one of many devices he has nurtured in his garden of instruments.

Wachowski has converted his home into a veritable weather observation station, the likes of which may not exist anywhere else in the United States of America.

And it all started in a chicken coop.

"My dad had an old chicken coop, and I turned it into a weather office," he said.

His early fascination with the weather sparked some concern.

Climate and Environment news: WGN Weather Center blog

"My aunt came over and she said, ‘What’s he doing in the window?' He watches thunderstorms [was the answer],’” Wachowski