Oklahoma native Damien Lodes joined the KFOR 4Warn Storm Team in 2016.
When I look at a severe weather map, those aren’t just names to me. Those are towns with my family, friends, and loved-ones who live there. I love my job, and I treat the weather with the respect it deserves.
I was born in Kingfisher and grew up in Oklahoma City, so I’m about as Okie as you can get. The May 3, 1999 F5 tornado that hit Bridge Creek and Moore solidified my passion for meteorology, math, and physics.
Growing up, I always wanted to do two things – become a TV Meteorologist, and serve my country.
My first time in front of a green screen was as a first grader at the Omniplex (Science Museum) in Oklahoma City. I remember wearing a green t-shirt and laughed because you could see through me.
After graduating from Southeast High School, I enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. I served in the Marines for five years as an air traffic controller.
After the Marines, I attended the University of Oklahoma (Boomer!!!). While at OU, I gave my first live, on-air forecast for OU Nightly. I graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Meteorology with minors in Broadcast Journalism and Political Science.
My TV career started in Midland, Texas. As Chief Meteorologist, I covered everything from record-breaking snow, to strong tornadoes. After Midland, I became Chief Meteorologist in Lawrence, Kansas. I loved both areas, but as Dorothy said, “There’s no place like home.”
When I’m not hard-at-work forecasting, I am spending time with my amazing wife Noemi. You can also find me cheering hard for OU, the Thunder, and the Broncos. I also consider myself the “World’s Biggest Batman Fan” and I love talking about comics, movies, and music.
With hard work, luck, and a great support system (love you guys) – I am living my dream as a TV Meteorologist in Oklahoma City.
Make sure to follow me on Facebook @DamienLodes and Twitter @OKCWXMan.
