 |
     |
 |
|||||
 |
|
       |
|
||||
         |
|
||||||
 |
 |
||||||
|
WZZM-13 Weatherball |
|||
|
|
The WZZM-13 Weatherball is a stainless steel orb, 16 ft. in diameter and is covered by 288 neon tubes alternating red, green and blue to reflect the following weather conditions: 13 Weatherball red, warmer ahead. 13 Weatherball blue, cooler in view. 13 Weatherball green, no change foreseen. Colors blinking bright, rain or snow in sight. |
The Weatherball was originally installed on top of the Michigan National Bank Building. Last seen in West Michigan from 1967 to 1987, this icon was viewed by millions of people. Checking the forecast by viewing the "Weatherball" became a daily ritual for West Michigan residents and travelers. The Weatherball was removed in 1987 because of excess stress the 3-ton structure put on the building. WZZM-13 purchased it from a scrap yard and placed it in storage until a restoration plan was developed. |
Valley City Sign was hired to restore and assemble the stainless steel orb, insert additional structural support and install the foundation, 100 ft. pole and Weatherball. WZZM-13 has documented the entire restoration process. The restored Weatherball resides on WZZM-13 property located at 645 Three Mile Road, NW. The Weatherball is a historical icon in West Michigan and Valley City Sign has been honored to be involved in this project. |
