Dave Rexroth is a respected American meteorologist best known for serving as the Chief Meteorologist at WXYZ-TV in Detroit, Michigan. With decades of experience in weather forecasting and broadcast journalism, he has become a trusted source of weather information for viewers across Southeast Michigan. Throughout his career, he has covered severe storms, winter weather events, and other major weather developments while delivering accurate and easy-to-understand forecasts. Beyond his professional achievements, Rexroth is also known for his inspiring recovery after a serious eye injury in 2014. His dedication to public service, combined with his expertise in weather forecasting, broadcast journalism, Detroit weather, Chief Meteorologist, and television news, has earned him lasting recognition.
Early Life and Interest in Weather
Dave Rexroth grew up in Omaha, Nebraska, a region known for its unpredictable weather, severe thunderstorms, and tornado activity. Living in an area frequently affected by extreme weather sparked his interest in meteorology at a young age.
Like many future weather experts, he became fascinated by storms and atmospheric conditions while growing up. Observing the powerful weather systems that regularly moved across the Great Plains helped shape his passion for understanding how the atmosphere works and how weather impacts daily life.
His early curiosity eventually led him to pursue higher education in science and meteorology, laying the foundation for a successful broadcasting career.
Educational Background
Rexroth’s educational achievements reflect his strong commitment to understanding weather science.
He attended Luther College in Iowa, where he studied physics. The scientific principles he learned during his undergraduate studies provided an excellent foundation for advanced meteorological training.
After graduating from Luther College, he continued his education at the University of Chicago, earning a master’s degree in Atmospheric Science and Meteorology.
One of the most notable aspects of his academic journey is that he studied under renowned meteorologist Ted Fujita. Fujita is best known for developing the Fujita Scale, which meteorologists use to classify tornado intensity. Learning from one of the most respected figures in weather science helped shape Rexroth’s professional understanding of severe weather forecasting.
Building a Career in Television Weather
Before becoming a familiar face in Detroit television, Rexroth worked at several television stations across the United States. These experiences allowed him to forecast a wide range of weather conditions and gain valuable broadcasting expertise.
Throughout his career, he worked for:
- WOI-TV in Des Moines, Iowa
- WRGB in Albany, New York
- WFOR-TV in Miami, Florida
- WXYZ-TV in Detroit, Michigan
Each market presented unique forecasting challenges. While working in the Midwest, he gained experience covering severe thunderstorms and tornadoes. In Florida, he tracked tropical systems, hurricanes, and coastal weather events.
His time in Miami was particularly significant because it provided firsthand experience covering tropical storms and hurricanes, including Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Harvey. These experiences strengthened his ability to communicate weather risks clearly during dangerous situations.
Becoming a Detroit Weather Leader
In 2000, Dave Rexroth joined WXYZ-TV in Detroit as the station’s meteorologist for morning and noon newscasts.
His forecasting ability, scientific knowledge, and approachable communication style quickly made him popular among viewers. Over the next decade, he became one of the station’s most trusted personalities.
His success led to a major career milestone in August 2010 when he was named Chief Meteorologist at WXYZ-TV.
Since assuming that role, Rexroth has been responsible for providing weather forecasts across multiple daily newscasts. His duties include analyzing weather models, tracking severe weather systems, and helping viewers understand changing weather conditions throughout Southeast Michigan.
His ability to explain complex weather patterns in simple language has been a major factor in his long-term popularity.
National Television Appearances
Although Rexroth is primarily known for his work in Detroit, his expertise has also reached national audiences.
Over the years, he has contributed weather reports for national television programs, including:
- Good Morning America Sunday
- CBS News Saturday Morning
These appearances showcased his forecasting skills beyond local television and demonstrated the professional reputation he has built throughout the broadcasting industry.
Awards and Professional Recognition
Rexroth’s work has earned recognition from both viewers and industry professionals.
Among his notable achievements are Michigan Association of Broadcasters awards for Best Weather in 2007 and 2008.
His broadcasting accomplishments also include Emmy recognition for a television special connected to The Lion King.
These honors reflect the quality of his forecasting work and his contributions to television journalism throughout his career.
The Fireworks Accident That Changed His Life
One of the most discussed moments in Rexroth’s life occurred in July 2014 during a family vacation in Iowa.
A fireworks accident caused a serious injury that resulted in the loss of vision in his left eye. The incident required multiple medical procedures and a lengthy recovery process.
The injury attracted significant public attention because Rexroth was a well-known television personality in Detroit. Many viewers followed his recovery closely and expressed support throughout the difficult period.
Despite the life-changing nature of the injury, he remained determined to return to the profession he loved.
Following treatment and rehabilitation, Rexroth resumed his role as a television meteorologist and continued serving viewers across Michigan.
His recovery became an inspiring example of perseverance, resilience, and dedication.
Why Viewers Continue to Trust Him
Weather forecasting involves much more than reading temperatures and predicting rain. During severe weather situations, viewers depend on meteorologists for accurate information that can help protect lives and property.
Over the years, Rexroth has built trust through:
- Consistent and accurate forecasting
- Clear explanations of weather risks
- Calm communication during severe weather events
- Strong scientific knowledge
- Long-term commitment to public safety
His ability to remain informative without creating unnecessary alarm has helped him maintain a strong connection with viewers throughout Southeast Michigan.
Personal Life and Family
Away from television, Dave Rexroth enjoys spending time with his family.
He is married to his wife, Deborah, and together they have three sons.
Although he generally keeps family matters private, he has occasionally shared stories about family activities and his enjoyment of coaching youth sports.
Baseball and basketball have played important roles in his life outside broadcasting, and he has spent time supporting his children’s athletic interests.
His dedication to family reflects the same commitment and consistency that viewers have come to appreciate in his professional career.
Community Involvement
Throughout his career, Rexroth has participated in community outreach programs and educational activities focused on weather awareness and safety.
As a trusted meteorologist, he has helped educate residents about severe weather preparedness, storm safety, and emergency planning.
His willingness to share knowledge has strengthened his connection with local communities and reinforced his role as a public servant in addition to being a broadcaster.
Following his eye injury, his personal experiences also provided encouragement to people facing their own physical challenges and setbacks.
Quick Facts About Dave Rexroth
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Dave Rexroth |
| Profession | Television Meteorologist |
| Nationality | American |
| Current Position | Chief Meteorologist |
| Television Station | WXYZ-TV Detroit |
| Hometown | Omaha, Nebraska |
| Education | Luther College (Physics) |
| Graduate Degree | Master’s Degree in Atmospheric Science and Meteorology |
| University | University of Chicago |
| Mentor | Ted Fujita |
| Joined WXYZ-TV | 2000 |
| Became Chief Meteorologist | August 2010 |
| Wife | Deborah Rexroth |
| Children | Three Sons |
| Known For | Weather Forecasting and Severe Weather Coverage |
| Eye Injury | Fireworks Accident in 2014 |
| Experience | More Than Three Decades |
| Awards | Michigan Association of Broadcasters Awards, Emmy Recognition |
Final Thoughts
Dave Rexroth has built a distinguished career through decades of accurate forecasting, scientific expertise, and dedication to public service. From his early fascination with severe weather in Nebraska to becoming Chief Meteorologist at WXYZ-TV, he has earned the respect of both viewers and industry professionals.
His professional accomplishments alone would make him one of Detroit’s most recognized meteorologists. However, his determination to overcome a serious eye injury and continue serving the community has further strengthened the admiration many viewers feel for him.
As he continues delivering forecasts across Southeast Michigan, Dave Rexroth remains a trusted source of weather information and a respected figure in American broadcast meteorology.
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FAQs
When did Dave Rexroth lose his eye?
Dave Rexroth lost vision in his left eye after a fireworks accident on July 4, 2014, while vacationing with his family in Iowa. He later received a prosthetic eye.
How long has Dave Rexroth been with Channel 7?
Dave joined WXYZ-TV (Channel 7 Detroit) in 2000. As of 2026, he has been with the station for about 26 years.
Who is the bad weather news guy?
If you mean the meteorologist who reports severe or bad weather on WXYZ-TV, that is Dave Rexroth, the station’s Chief Meteorologist.
How old is Dave Rexroth?
His exact birth date has not been publicly confirmed. However, reports from 2014 identified him as 48 years old, which would make him about 59–60 years old in 2026. This is an estimate, not an officially confirmed age.
Who is the most popular meteorologist on The Weather Channel?
There is no official ranking, but Jim Cantore is widely considered the most famous and recognizable meteorologist associated with The Weather Channel.
