Derek Kevra
Derek Kevra
Growing up in the Midwest, Derek learned early on that weather can and does impact peoples' lives everyday. Watching the daily weather reports, from the local news and Weather Channel, is what inspired him to become a meteorologist.
Finding a love for math and sciences, Derek attended The University of Michigan to study meteorology. He received a Bachelor of Science and Engineering Degree for Meteorology from the Atmospheric, Oceanic and Space Sciences Department. In September 2012, he was awarded the American Meteorological Society’s (AMS) prestigious Certified Broadcast Meteorologist (CBM) Seal of Approval for "scientific competence and effective communication skills in their weather presentations". Derek is also a full member of AMS. In 2012, Derek was runner up in the New Orleans Press Club's "Best Weathercast" category, while also receiving recognition in 2008 by the Oregon Association of Broadcasters, again for "Best Weathercast".
Derek began his career interning at WJBK in Detroit, Michigan. It was here he first learned about severe weather and the importance of the local meteorologist. He then moved to Medford, Oregon where he was the morning meteorologist for KDRV for over 2 and a half years. In December 2009, Derek joined WWL as the weekend meteorologist.
“Living in all these different areas has given me invaluable experience in forecasting. Whether it’s winter storms in the north, dangerous fire conditions in the west, and now tropical weather in the Gulf, I feel very well prepared to handle the forecast”, Derek said.
Along with his passion for weather, Derek has found another joy in setting up and using new technology and equipment.
“I’m kind of a nerd when it comes to that”, he proudly declared. “Am I a techie? Sure, I think so. I really like playing around with new electronics and then using those to enhance my forecasts. I think it’s a lot of fun!”
When not checking the most updated weather models, Derek enjoys going on a run, visiting schools to talk to kids, watching/playing sports and exploring southeast Louisiana. A self described ‘sports-nut’, he is very excited to visit the Superdome and the New Orleans Arena.
Learning about WWL’s dedication to Louisiana during and after Hurricane Katrina, Derek has quickly developed a sense of pride for the news team and station. He recently stated, “I consider myself lucky to be at WWL and I couldn’t be happier to be here”.
