The National Weather Festival is back this weekend at the National Weather Center in Norman, Oklahoma. The free, family‑friendly event runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday and celebrates two decades of weather science and research at the center.
What visitors can expect
Festival attendees will see hourly weather‑balloon launches, research drones, mobile radars and helicopters in action. Demonstrations showcase the tools meteorologists use to forecast severe storms, tornadoes and everyday weather for Oklahomans.
Meet the KOCO 5 First Alert Weather Team
KOCO 5’s First Alert Weather Team will be on hand to answer questions and share insights. Chief Meteorologist Damon Lane will be joined by meteorologists Jonathan Conder, Michael Armstrong, Joseph Neubauer and Mikayla Smith. Visitors can learn how the team prepares the most accurate forecasts for the Oklahoma City market.
The team’s accuracy has been recognized by WeatheRate, which has certified KOCO 5 as providing the “Most Accurate Forecast in Oklahoma City” for 14 consecutive years. That streak underscores the station’s commitment to reliable, life‑saving weather information for families and communities across the state.
Additional festival attractions
Beyond the KOCO 5 presence, the festival will feature Sky 5, pilot Chase Rutledge and the First Alert Storm Command unit. Interactive exhibits let visitors explore how radar data is collected, how storm‑chasing aircraft operate and how modern forecasting models are built.
Local schools and youth groups are encouraged to attend, as the event offers a unique educational experience that aligns with Oklahoma’s strong emphasis on STEM learning and parental involvement in children’s education.
Why the festival matters
Weather safety is a core concern for Oklahoma families, especially during tornado season. By bringing together scientists, broadcasters and the public, the National Weather Festival reinforces the importance of preparedness, community cooperation and faith‑based stewardship of the gifts of life and safety.
For more information, visit the National Weather Center’s website or follow KOKO 5’s social‑media channels for live updates throughout the day.
Original reporting: Oklahoma City News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
