History of When Weather Changed History in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 16, 2026

When Weather Changed History is a documentary television series that aired on The Weather Channel, exploring the significant impact of weather on major historical events. The series delves into how specific weather conditions influenced the course and outcome of these events, providing a unique perspective on history through the lens of meteorology. Episodes covered various historical events, highlighting the often-overlooked role of weather in shaping human civilization and its pivotal moments.

1948: Killer Smog in Donora, Pennsylvania

In 1948, the killer smog that hit Donora, Pennsylvania, was covered on When Weather Changed History and later on Weather That Changed the World.

1952: 1952 London Smog

The 1952 smog that affected London, England, was covered on TWC's shows When Weather Changed History and Weather That Changed the World.

January 6, 2008: Series Premiere

On January 6, 2008, When Weather Changed History, an American documentary television series, first aired on The Weather Channel.

October 5, 2008: Season 2 Premiere

Season 2 of When Weather Changed History premiered on October 5, 2008, after the first season achieved record-high ratings, leading to an order for 14 new episodes.

February 25, 2009: Series Finale

The final episode of When Weather Changed History aired on February 25, 2009. Reruns are still broadcast, but the show's future is uncertain.

December 2010: Viewer's Choice Episodes

In December 2010, The Weather Channel aired a week of Viewer's Choice episodes of When Weather Changed History at 8 p.m. ET.

June 9, 2013: Weather That Changed the World Series Launch

On June 9, 2013, TWC launched a similar series titled Weather That Changed the World, covering three stories previously featured on When Weather Changed History.