The Nebraska broadcasting community is mourning the loss of veteran meteorologist Kent Boughton, the longtime weather forecaster whose decades of dedication to informing and protecting communities earned him widespread respect across the state. Boughton passed away on Sunday, July 26, 2026, following a courageous battle with stage 4 cancer, according to a statement shared by his family on his Facebook page.
His passing marks the end of an extraordinary career that spanned more than five decades, during which he became one of Nebraska’s most recognizable and trusted weather personalities.
Boughton first revealed his diagnosis in March 2026, explaining that he had sought medical attention after losing his voice. Doctors later discovered a tumor in his lung that had grown against his tonsil, causing paralysis. In May, he shared another update, revealing that chemotherapy had not been successful and that the cancer had spread throughout his body. Despite the devastating diagnosis, Boughton remained remarkably open about his journey, inspiring many through his courage, honesty, and resilience.
A Nebraska broadcasting legend, Boughton began his career at just 15 years old as a disc jockey at KRGI in Grand Island. After graduating from the Brown Institute, he worked in Idaho Falls, Idaho, serving as both sports and weather director at KIFI-TV before returning home to Nebraska in 1979 to become weather director at KHAS-TV (now KSNB) in Hastings.
After spending 12 years in television, Boughton stepped away from broadcasting to devote more time to raising his children. His love for meteorology, however, eventually brought him back to television. In 1999, he joined KHGI in Kearney as chief forecaster, where he continued to build his reputation as one of the state’s most respected weather experts.
Although he officially retired in 2023, Boughton never strayed far from the profession he loved. He continued forecasting part-time for KLKN-TV before joining News Channel Nebraska in March 2025 as chief forecaster, where he remained committed to serving viewers until illness prevented him from continuing.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to broadcasting, Boughton was inducted into the Nebraska Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame in 2024, honoring a lifetime of excellence and public service.
Beyond delivering daily forecasts, Kent Boughton became a familiar and comforting presence in homes across Nebraska. Viewers admired his calm demeanor, professionalism, and dedication to keeping communities informed during severe weather events. Colleagues remember him as a generous mentor, respected journalist, and passionate broadcaster whose enthusiasm for weather never faded.
Following news of his passing, tributes from coworkers, friends, and viewers have flooded social media, celebrating his remarkable career and the lasting impact he had on generations of Nebraskans. Many have shared memories of his broadcasts and expressed gratitude for his decades of faithful service.
Kent Boughton leaves behind a legacy defined by integrity, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to journalism. His influence on Nebraska broadcasting and the countless lives he touched will not be forgotten.
Funeral arrangements have not yet been publicly announced. His family has asked for privacy as they mourn his loss while expressing appreciation for the overwhelming support and condolences they have received.
Kent Boughton will be remembered not only as an accomplished meteorologist but also as a beloved colleague, mentor, and friend whose legacy will continue to inspire future generations of broadcasters. May he rest in peace.
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