WCCO viewers will soon have to get their morning weather forecasts from somebody else.

Matt Brickman, who started at the CBS affiliate in 2011, announced Monday that he's leaving the Twin Cities to become a meteorologist at WNBC in New York, the largest TV market in the country.

"The opportunity to work at a place as iconic as 30 Rock is something I couldn't pass up," he wrote on Twitter. "Something I never expected. I'm nervous & excited about this next challenge. I hope I'll do you proud."

In a phone interview Monday afternoon, Brickman thanked fans who welcomed a "cocky" outsider from the New England area.

"I've always been myself, whether it's wearing sneakers with suits or giving (Jason) DeRusha a hard time," said Brickman, who will primarily be working weekend evenings in his new gig. "People here have responded well to that. I've never felt like I had to pull punches."

Brickman, who attended the University of Illinois, became part of the morning team five years ago. His last day at WCCO is Aug. 20. News director Kari Patey said plans on naming a replacement are still in the works.

Matt's wife, Kate Brickman, is expected to leave her position as director of public affairs for the Metropolitan Council. She previously served as communications director for Minneapolis Mayor Betsy Hodges. The couple have two children.