CBS Boise chief meteorologist Roland Steadham killed in Idaho plane crash

A tragic accident on Tuesday claimed the life of Roland Steadham, the chief meteorologist for CBS Boise affiliate KBOI. Steadham, along with another individual, died when a small plane crashed into the Payette River near Emmett, Idaho.

A Career Dedicated to Meteorology

Steadham’s career spanned 35 years, during which he earned multiple awards and, according to his KBOI biography, “trained countless Meteorologists who continue to inform the public across the country.” Prior to his role at KBOI, he served as chief meteorologist at CBS affiliate KUTV in Salt Lake City from 2005 to 2009. He held degrees from Brigham Young University and the University of Utah.

An Accomplished Pilot

Beyond his work in meteorology, Steadham was a commercially licensed pilot with over 3,000 hours of flight experience. His biography notes he flew a variety of aircraft, including competition aerobatics planes, twin-engine jets, and gliders. He operated a small aircraft out of the Emmett Municipal Airport and was also described as an avid skydiver.

Did You Know? Roland Steadham logged over 3,000 hours flying a diverse range of aircraft, from aerobatic planes to gliders.

Details of the Crash

The Gem County Sheriff’s Office reported the crash at 10:58 a.m. Tuesday. The plane reportedly clipped a power line before entering the icy waters of the Payette River. Both occupants sustained fatal injuries. The identity of the second occupant has not been released to the public.

Expert Insight: The loss of a trusted local meteorologist represents a significant disruption to community access to vital weather information, particularly in a region where conditions can change rapidly.

CBS News senior national weather correspondent Rob Marciano, who knew Steadham for over 20 years, described him as “a great guy, a total pro, and a gentleman.” Marciano stated the news was “such sad and shocking news for the weather community.”

KBOI stated, “Our community won’t be the same without him.” Steadham is survived by his wife, Erin, his six children, and his grandchildren.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was Roland Steadham’s role at KBOI?

Roland Steadham was the chief meteorologist at KBOI, a CBS affiliate in Boise, Idaho.

What is known about the other person on the plane?

The other occupant of the plane has not been publicly identified.

What was Steadham like outside of his professional life?

Steadham was an avid hiker, skydiver, and animal lover who sometimes brought his dog to the station.

How will the loss of a seasoned meteorologist like Roland Steadham impact local communities reliant on accurate weather forecasting?