Long Time Eastern Iowa Meteorologist Prepares For A New Adventure

We have the strangest relationships with our favorite news anchors, radio hosts, and weathermen/women, don't we? We let these people into our lives and in many cases right into our homes. You build up a friendship with these broadcasters that let us know what's going on in our community, even if they aren't exactly aware that friendship exists. One of Eastern Iowa's best friends and long-time Meteorologist is preparing for a new life adventure.

For the past 16 years, Kaj O'Mara has dedicated his time and his efforts to keeping Iowa informed on what's going on outside. He's that friend you've seen on TV and around eastern Iowa who's always been there when the Iowans have needed him. After 16 years, he's moving on to a new opportunity.

In an announcement made yesterday (April 10), Kaj informed KCRG watchers that he has accepted a new position as a "Senior Consulting Meteorologist (primarily Forensics), for a global consulting firm." Kaj's last day at KCRG will be on Friday, April 21st, and Iowans are encouraged to tune in.

For the past 13 years, Kaj has been getting up at 2 a.m. and he's looking forward to a few extra hours of sleep.

In the announcement, Kaj said

 It's better for our family, it's better for me personally, I don't have to get up at 2 in the morning anymore, which is something I've done for over 13 years.

It's okay to be bummed that you won't be seeing Kaj on KCRG or hearing him on your favorite radio stations anymore but it's also hard to not be extremely happy for him. You also might still run into Kaj when you're getting groceries at Hyvee or visiting your favorite eastern Iowa restaurants. Even though he is accepting a new position, he's not changing locations. Kaj can do everything he needs with his new job right here in Iowa.

I've got to meet Kaj twice since moving to eastern Iowa and we have emailed back and forth a few times, whenever I've had questions about possible severe weather approaching. He was always incredibly helpful to me personally and always very kind when emailing back and forth. I just want to wish him the best of luck with his new position.

Iowans will miss seeing and hearing your voice Kaj but congratulations! I hope setting a new morning alarm time treats you well and your new job treats you well. You deserve it.