WDSU's Damon Singleton to retire after 18 years

The big picture: WDSU broke Singleton's news last week. The statements from executives called him an "invaluable asset" and said they were "immensely grateful for the years of dedication."

Yes, but: The announcement didn't say why the 62-year-old is retiring or who will be the new chief meteorologist.

• Singleton politely declined an interview request from Axios New Orleans for this story, and station executives did not respond to emails.

The intrigue: Singleton was apparently hoping for the chief job too, according to social media comments first reported by NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune.

• After WDSU posted the announcement on Facebook, viewers questioned the decision. The New Orleans native responded to one viewer's lament, saying he thought he was going to be promoted as well.
• His wife, Tami Singleton, posted the station's announcement on Facebook and called it "Smoke and mirrors," according to NOLA.com columnist Will Sutton.
• Singleton and WDSU declined interviews with the paper too.

Zoom out: Singleton is a St. Aug grad and a 22-year veteran of the U.S. Navy, where he retired as a commander, according to his WDSU bio.

• He joined WDSU in 2006 and has covered hundreds of extreme weather events over the years.
• He is known for his straight-forward forecasts, sharp suits and exuberant pronunciations.

What's next: The City Council will honor Singleton on Thursday at their regular meeting (livestream), according to Council President Helena Moreno's office.

• His final broadcast on WDSU is noon Friday.

Go deeper: Margaret Orr retires as WDSU's chief meteorologist.