The voice behind the forecast: Kent Boughton’s career and impact

The Hall of Fame broadcaster shares memories from time on air, outdoors

March 24, 2026Updated: March 24, 2026
By Dave Griek

KEARNEY, Neb. — "If I don't see you in the future, I'll see you in the pasture."

It's a line News Channel Nebraska Chief Forecaster Kent Boughton used often when saying goodbye.

He's not leaving yet, although he did get news of the reason for his ultimate departure from this life, at some point.

Kent sharing his cancer diagnosis on social media recently.

Starting in 2009, I moved to Kearney for a job at a television station and Kent was the Chief Forecaster there. Our professional relationship began, and our personal relationship was given the time to bloom.

Over the years, we've gone through it all; marriages and death, laughter and tears, even one of the greatest practical jokes I was ever part of. If you know, you know, and many around here do.

With the ups and down during the 16-plus years we have known one another, Kent's commitment to our friendship, our brotherhood, has never wavered.

Now, his focus on remaining positive, upbeat, and smiling will take him to the finish line, an arrival still unknown.

When his time comes, I can only pray Kent is able to kick back in a pasture and watch the storms slowly roll in for eternity.

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