In the latest sign that The Weather Channel has original programming in its forecast, the network has hired Scripps Networks exec Mary Ellen Iwata for the newly created position of VP Original Content and Development. She will be based in New York and tasked with developing, commissioning and acquiring original programming. Iwata was brought aboard by Michael Dingley, who recently joined as SVP Content and Development; the pair worked together at HGTV. Those moves follow the appointment of The Weather Channel EVP and GM Bob Walker, who was brought aboard last month to help spearhead the original programming lineup.