Heather Waldman Biography: Emmy-Nominated Meteorologist and Climate Change Reporter
Heather Waldman is an AMS Certified Broadcast Meteorologist and climate change reporter currently working at KCRA 3 & My58 TV in Sacramento, CA.
She joined KCRA in December 2021 and became the first meteorologist in the region to focus specifically on climate change stories and how a warming world is affecting Northern California.
Before joining KCRA, Heather worked as an evening meteorologist at WGRZ in Buffalo, New York, where she covered everything from blizzards to severe thunderstorms.
Her work there earned her a regional Edward R. Murrow Award for Excellence in Innovation and a New York Regional Emmy nomination.
Heather began her career with the AccuWeather Network, where she learned to forecast weather for places all over the United States. She also made guest appearances on Fox Business and ESPN as a weather expert during big storms.
Heather holds degrees in Meteorology and Telecommunications from Pennsylvania State University. In her spare time, she enjoys hiking, rock climbing, skiing, running, and cheering on her Penn State football team.
Age:
Heather Waldman was born on August 5 in Pennsylvania, United States. This makes her a Leo. She is of White ethnicity.
Husband:
Heather Waldman is married to Stephen Weitzner, a Postdoctoral Research Scientist at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory.
They got married on September 26, 2020, in a registry office in Buffalo, New York. The couple met while they were both undergraduates at Penn State University and have known each other since then.
Stephen specializes in materials science and engineering, with a focus on developing computational schemes for studying interfacial electrochemical phenomena at the atomistic level.
He has a Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering from Penn State University and has worked at various prestigious institutions, including Stanford University and Carnegie Mellon University.
As for children, there is no public information available about Heather and Stephen having any kids. They seem to keep their personal lives quite private.
Height, Weight:
Heather Waldman stands at a height of 5 feet 4 inches (about 162.5 cm). While Heather Waldman’s exact weight and body measurements haven’t been publicly disclosed, she is known to have a slim build.
Based on her height of 5 feet 4 inches (about 162.5 cm), it’s estimated that she might weigh around 120 to 130 pounds (approximately 54 to 59 kg). However, these are just estimates and may not be accurate.
Career and Background:
Heather Waldman earned her AMS certification and has established herself as a leading meteorologist.
Before joining KCRA-TV in Sacramento, she worked in other markets where she honed her storytelling skills, blending meteorology and climate science to educate viewers.
Heather is known for her commitment to delivering accurate forecasts and raising awareness about climate change impacts.
AccuWeather Network
Heather Waldman’s career in meteorology began at the AccuWeather Network. AccuWeather, a global leader in weather information and digital media, provided Heather with the perfect platform to hone her forecasting skills.
During her time at AccuWeather, she developed expertise in predicting weather patterns for various regions across the United States, from the tornado-prone Midwest to the hurricane-affected Southeast.
This experience helped her understand the complexities and nuances of different weather systems.
Additionally, Heather made guest appearances on national platforms such as Fox Business and ESPN, where she provided expert analysis during significant weather events like hurricanes, blizzards, and severe thunderstorms.
These appearances showcased her ability to communicate complex meteorological concepts to a broad audience in an engaging and accessible manner.
WGRZ-TV in Buffalo, New York
In January 2017, Heather Waldman joined WGRZ-TV in Buffalo, New York, as an evening meteorologist.
Buffalo’s weather is known for its extremes, including harsh winters with heavy snowfall, thanks to its location near Lake Erie.
Heather’s role at WGRZ involved delivering accurate and timely weather forecasts, which were crucial for the safety and preparedness of the local community.
She covered a wide range of weather conditions, from summer heatwaves to intense winter storms.
Heather’s innovative approach to meteorology led her to spearhead the station’s climate change coverage.
She produced special reports that highlighted the local impacts of global warming, making her the first meteorologist in the region to focus on this important issue.
Her dedication to informing the public about climate change earned her a regional Edward R. Murrow Award for Excellence in Innovation and a New York Regional Emmy nomination.
KCRA 3 & My58 TV in Sacramento, California
Heather’s career took a significant turn when she joined KCRA 3 & My58 TV in Sacramento, California, in December 2021.
At KCRA, Heather continued to build on her passion for climate reporting. She became the first meteorologist in the region to dedicate her work specifically to climate change stories.
Her reports at KCRA aim to educate the public about how a warming world is affecting Northern California, from increasing wildfire risks to prolonged droughts.
Heather’s role at KCRA involves not only forecasting weather but also investigating and explaining the broader environmental trends that impact the local community.
This focus on climate journalism distinguishes her from many other meteorologists, emphasizing her commitment to using her platform to raise awareness about critical environmental issues.
Guest Appearances
Throughout her career, Heather Waldman has been recognized as a trusted voice in meteorology, which has led to guest appearances on national platforms such as Fox Business and ESPN.
During these appearances, Heather provided expert insights into major weather events, offering detailed analyses and forecasts that helped viewers understand the potential impacts.
Her ability to convey complex weather information in a clear and relatable manner has made her a sought-after expert during significant weather events.
These appearances also allowed Heather to reach a wider audience, further establishing her reputation as a knowledgeable and reliable meteorologist.
Here are the highlights of Heather Waldman’s notable weather stories:
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Buffalo Blizzard of ’77:
- Covered the historic blizzard that paralyzed Buffalo, earning a regional Edward R. Murrow Award for Excellence in Innovation (2018).
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Climate Change Coverage:
- Pioneered WGRZ-TV’s climate change reporting, earning a New York Regional Emmy nomination.
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Severe Weather Events:
- Reported on heatwaves, wind storms, and lake-effect snow, providing timely and accurate forecasts.
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Guest Appearances:
- Appeared on national platforms like Fox Business and ESPN during significant weather events.
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Northern California Climate Stories:
- Focused on how a warming world is affecting Northern California, including wildfire risks and droughts, since joining KCRA 3 & My58 TV.
Heather Waldman has received several awards and recognitions throughout her career:
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Edward R. Murrow Award for Excellence in Innovation (2018):
- Awarded for her coverage of the Buffalo Blizzard of ’77, which relived the historic storm and its impacts.
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New York Regional Emmy Nomination:
- Nominated for her pioneering climate change coverage at WGRZ-TV, highlighting the local impacts of global warming.
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American Meteorological Society (AMS) Certified Broadcast Meteorologist (CBM):
- Earned in 2014, recognizing her expertise and professionalism in meteorology.
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National Weather Association Broadcaster Seal of Approval:
- Awarded in 2015, acknowledging her commitment to accurate and effective weather broadcasting.
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Heather’s Weather Whys:
- A weekly weather segment on WGRZ’s social media page where Heather answers viewer questions about weather, showcasing her dedication to educating the public.
These awards and recognitions highlight Heather Waldman’s contributions to meteorology and climate reporting, as well as her commitment to public education and innovation in weather broadcasting.
Heather Waldman has worked with many talented colleagues throughout her career at various stations. Here are some of her notable colleagues:
KCRA 3 & My58 TV in Sacramento, California
- Deirdre Fitzpatrick: Morning anchor and reporter known for her dynamic storytelling and investigative journalism.
- Mark Finan: Chief meteorologist with extensive experience in weather forecasting and climate reporting.
- Lisa Gonzales: News anchor and reporter who covers a wide range of stories, from breaking news to in-depth features.
- Gulstan Dart: Evening anchor known for his comprehensive news coverage and engaging on-air presence.
- Evan Ramstad: Meteorologist
- Sara Sandrik: Reporter
- Sara Marie Brenner: Anchor
- Mike TeSelle: Anchor
- Suzanne Marques: Reporter
These colleagues have contributed to the success of their respective news teams, and working alongside them has helped Heather Waldman grow and excel in her career.
Net Worth and Salary:
While the exact figures are not available, Heather Waldman’s net worth is estimated to be substantial, reflecting her successful career as a meteorologist.
Her annual salary as a meteorologist at KCRA-TV likely falls within the industry’s competitive range, estimated between $60,000 and $100,000.
Heather’s net worth includes earnings from her work at various stations, guest appearances on national platforms, and her contributions to climate journalism.
Her salary reflects her expertise and experience in the field, as well as the value she brings to her employers.
Is Heather Waldman Married?
Yes, Heather Waldman is married. She tied the knot with her boyfriend-turned-husband, Stephen Weitzner, on September 26, 2020.
The couple decided to keep their wedding low-key and got married in a registry office in Buffalo, New York.
Stephen Weitzner is a Postdoctoral Research Scientist at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory and also worked as a teaching assistant at Penn State University.
They have known each other since their undergraduate years at Penn State University.
How Old Is Heather Waldman?
Heather Waldman was born on August 4, but she has not publicly disclosed the year of her birth. Based on available information, it’s estimated that she might be in her 40s.
Where Is Heather Waldman Working At?
Heather Waldman is currently working at KCRA 3 & My58 TV in Sacramento, California. She joined the station in December 2021 and serves as a meteorologist and climate change reporter. Her roles at the station include:
- Meteorologist: Providing weather forecasts and updates to the viewers.
- Climate Change Reporter: Focusing on how climate change is impacting Northern California and raising awareness about environmental issues.
Heather Waldman is active on social media. She maintains a presence on platforms like Twitter and Instagram.
Heather often shares updates about the weather, her work, and personal interests, including her love for hiking, rock climbing, and her cat, Albus.
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