Jonathan Kegges has been a vital part of the News 6 team since June 2019, where he has become a familiar face to viewers across all of News 6 and ClickOrlando’s digital and streaming platforms. As a seasoned meteorologist, Jonathan provides comprehensive weather coverage, especially during hurricane season. You can catch him streaming live every Monday at 11 a.m. and during any significant weather events on ClickOrlando, the News 6 YouTube page, and News 6+.
Early Beginnings and Educational Background
Jonathan hails from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where his fascination with meteorology began at a young age. He recalls being frightened by thunderstorms as a child, which led him to seek an understanding of the weather that would eventually shape his career. The Blizzard of 1993, a monumental weather event, left a lasting impression on him. At just five years old, he vividly remembers his father opening the garage door to reveal nearly two feet of snow—a moment that further fueled his passion for weather.
His academic journey in meteorology began at Penn State University, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Meteorology in 2010. His dedication to the field was further recognized in 2014 when he received the prestigious designation of Certified Broadcast Meteorologist (CBM) from the American Meteorological Society. This honor, the highest rating awarded by the AMS, underscores Jonathan's expertise and commitment to delivering accurate and reliable weather forecasts.
Career Path and Memorable Moments
Jonathan's career started in Rochester, Minnesota, where he served as the weekend meteorologist at KTTC-TV. While the harsh winters of Minnesota are a stark contrast to the warmer climate he now enjoys, Jonathan fondly remembers the unique challenges that came with forecasting in a region where wind chills could plummet to 40 below and snow often towered above mailboxes.
In March 2015, Jonathan transitioned to Roanoke, Virginia, where he played a crucial role in covering several significant weather events, including three EF-3 tornadoes and the devastating flooding caused by Hurricanes Florence and Michael. These experiences not only honed his skills as a meteorologist but also deepened his understanding of the profound impact that severe weather can have on communities.
Personal Life and Interests
For Jonathan, weather is more than just a job—it's a passion. When he's not forecasting, he's likely checking in on his favorite sports teams. A die-hard fan of the Pittsburgh Pirates, Steelers, Penguins, and Penn State Nittany Lions, Jonathan stays connected to his Pittsburgh roots through his love of sports. He also enjoys keeping in touch with his two younger brothers, Ryan and Matt, and the rest of his family back home.
Jonathan's interests extend beyond meteorology and sports. He's a fan of pop music, particularly anything from the '90s, and he enjoys relaxing with a good book—his favorite being *Shutter Island* by R.L. Stine. He's also a movie buff, with *Twister* and *Titanic* topping his list of favorite films, and he enjoys watching TV shows like *24* and *Game of Thrones*.
Favorite Things and Aspirations
When it comes to food, Jonathan has a soft spot for mac and cheese and enjoys dining at his favorite restaurant, Sweet Tomatoes. His favorite online haunts include Facebook and ClickOrlando.com/weathernews, where he keeps up with the latest in weather and news.
As someone who values hard work and determination, Jonathan is inspired by the quote, "The only place where success comes before work is in the dictionary." This mantra reflects his dedication to his craft and his belief in the importance of perseverance.
Looking ahead, Jonathan dreams of visiting the idyllic island of Bora Bora—a fitting destination for someone who spends his days tracking the weather and dreaming of the perfect forecast.
In all aspects of his life, Jonathan Kegges exemplifies a deep commitment to his work, his hobbies, and his roots. Whether he's forecasting the next big storm or cheering on his favorite sports team, Jonathan's passion for life shines through in everything he does.
- You can contact Jonathan at [email protected] and follow him on Facebook, linkedin or Twitter
English (United States) ·