Roland Steadham, a beloved veteran meteorologist and chief weather forecaster for CBS affiliate KBOI-CBS2 in Boise, Idaho, tragically lost his life Tuesday when a small plane crashed into the icy waters of the Payette River after clipping a power line shortly after takeoff. The crash also claimed the life of a second man aboard the aircraft.
The fatal incident occurred near Emmett, Idaho, just west of Montour, at about 10:58 a.m. local time. According to the Gem County Sheriff’s Office, the small aircraft lost contact roughly 12 minutes after departing from Emmett Municipal Airport and was later found submerged in the frozen river. Preliminary reports suggest the plane struck a power line before crashing, though investigators have not yet determined the exact sequence of events or who was piloting at the time.
Steadham, 67, was widely respected both on and off the air. With a broadcasting career spanning more than three decades, he served as chief meteorologist in multiple television markets including Miami, Salt Lake City, and Boise. His dynamic presentations and deep knowledge of weather patterns made him a trusted presence for viewers facing storms, heat waves, and seasonal weather challenges.
Beyond his role on television, Steadham was an accomplished pilot and aviation enthusiast. He held a commercial pilot’s license and had logged over 3,000 flight hours in a variety of aircraft. Just days before the crash, he visited students at a local aviation class to share his passion for flight and encourage young pilots, remarks that now carry poignant significance.
Colleagues and viewers alike remember Steadham as more than a weatherman — he was a mentor, community figure, and avid outdoorsman. Known for his warm personality, love of flying, and devotion to family, he often spoke fondly of his wife Erin, his six children, and his grandchildren. He was also an avid skydiver and outdoor adventurer.
Tributes have poured in from across Idaho and the broader meteorological community, with many highlighting Steadham’s professionalism, kindness, and passion for educating the public about weather safety. “Our community won’t be the same without him,” one longtime viewer wrote, echoing sentiments shared widely on social media.
The identity of the other man killed in the crash has not been publicly released. Officials from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are expected to lead the investigation into the cause of the accident, with findings pending.
Steadham’s sudden death is a profound loss to his family, colleagues, and the many viewers who relied on his trusted forecasts and friendly presence.
