Roland Steadham, a familiar face in South Florida and Idaho broadcasting, reportedly died Tuesday in a small plane crash in Idaho. It seems the accident occurred northwest of Boise on the Payette River. Deputies with the Gem County Sheriff’s Office responded before 11 AM after a report of the crash. Investigators believe the plane may have clipped a power line before crashing on ice in the river. Two men on board were fatally injured. Steadham, a veteran meteorologist and a commercially licensed pilot, was one of the victims. Friends and colleagues are remembering him not just for his skill on-air, but for his adventurous spirit and decades of weather forecasting across the country.
Steadham leaves behind a large family, including his wife, six children, and grandchildren. His passing has reportedly shocked many in the broadcasting community and viewers who grew up watching him deliver forecasts with clarity and warmth.
Former meteorologist Roland Steadham dies in a plane crash in Idaho
As reported by NBC 6 Florida, the accident occurred near the Payette River, northwest of Boise. Deputies reportedly responded before 11 am after receiving a call about a small plane crash. Investigators believe the plane may have clipped a power line, spun out of control, and then crashed on ice in the river. Both male occupants on board were fatally injured. One of the victims was confirmed to be Roland Steadham, formerly chief meteorologist at WTVJ-NBC6 and later at KBOI-TV in Idaho, beloved by colleagues and viewers alike.
Roland Steadham's career
Steadham began his career in meteorology more than 35 years ago, according to Idaho News reports. He spent a significant part of that time forecasting hurricanes and severe thunderstorms in South Florida. Later, he moved west, where he reported on snowstorms and extreme weather across states like Utah and Idaho.
At WTVJ-NBC6, he served as chief meteorologist from 1996 to 2006. His work during that period reportedly earned him respect for both accuracy and engaging presentation. After moving to Idaho, he continued to make an impact at KBOI-TV, the CBS affiliate, sharing forecasts with viewers while also mentoring younger meteorologists.
It seems his experience ranged from tropical weather to blizzards;a rare mix that few in the field achieve. Experts say that kind of versatility makes a meteorologist not just competent, but memorable.
Passion beyond the forecast: His other passionate vision
Steadham’s life wasn’t limited to television. He was also an avid pilot and skydiver. According to his station bio, he had logged over 3,000 hours flying everything from competition aerobatics to twin-engine jets and gliders. He reportedly completed over 700 skydives. Mountains and rivers were his playground. In the summers, he kayaked Idaho rivers with his wife and daughters. In spring and fall, he rode dirt bikes through the mountains.
It appears he lived life at full throttle, both on-screen and off. Colleagues often noted how his adventurous hobbies mirrored his fearless approach to broadcasting. Small details, like the twinkle in his eye during a forecast or an anecdote about flying, made him relatable to viewers.
Roland Steadham's family and legacy
Roland Steadham was the son of a Cuban immigrant and reportedly took pride in his Latin heritage. He spoke fluent Spanish and often connected with diverse communities throughout his career. He attended Brigham Young University and the University of Utah, finishing his meteorology education through the Mississippi State Meteorology Program.
He leaves behind six children, grandchildren, and a spouse who reportedly shared in his love of adventure. Many in the community remember him not just as a weather expert, but as a mentor, father, and friend.
As reported, Steadham received both the American Meteorological Society and National Weather Association Seal of Approval, recognitions that highlight the respect he earned in his field.
