The Oklahoma Gazette reports that Rick Mitchell, chief meteorologist at KOCO Channel 5, is leaving Oklahoma City after working at the station for 18 years.

Mitchell will venture to Dallas-Forth Worth to report the morning weather at KXAS, an NBC affiliate, according to the Gazette.

“I still feel like this will be home. I know that sounds strange and probably it will change over time, but I think that’s what I’m telling myself to help me get through the transition.” – Mitchell

Rumors started circulating Monday morning that Mitchell would be leaving. The Dallas-Forth Worth station finally confirmed the move in a tweet this afternoon.

Photo by Jaconna Aguirre: Channel 5 meteorologist Rick Mitchell talks to students at Kennedy Elementary at “Severe Weather Safety” program March 12, 2002.