When KCCI meteorologist Kurtis Gertz stepped onto the MidAmerican Energy Stage at the Iowa State Fair in 2008, he expected a routine weather update. Instead, a 130‑pound Burmese python named Dawn, borrowed from the nearby Snakes Alive exhibit, made an unexpected appearance.
Unexpected Visitor
During the live segment, the snake was placed around Gertz’s shoulders as part of a fair demonstration. The python quickly moved, bringing its head inches from Gertz’s face and flicking its tongue, which he jokingly described as a “hot, wet kiss.” He later quipped that the moment would become popular on YouTube.
As the crowd gasped, Dawn’s tail slipped up Gertz’s shorts and down the opposite leg, prompting co‑anchor Steve Karlin and the snake trainer, Nick, to help free the meteorologist. Gertz kept his composure, remarking, “OK, let’s go to stupid human tricks. Let’s see you top this one,” before the snake was safely removed.
Aftermath and Online Reach
The clip was uploaded to KCCI’s YouTube channel, where it has been viewed close to 900,000 times, becoming one of the station’s most shared moments. The incident highlighted the fair’s family‑friendly atmosphere and the willingness of local broadcasters to embrace light‑hearted, unexpected events.
Gertz, who celebrated two decades in television during the broadcast, thanked viewers and offered a brief blessing, saying, “It’s been a great 20 years in television, God bless.” The moment remains a memorable part of Iowa State Fair history and a reminder of the unpredictable nature of live television.
Fair Context
The Iowa State Fair, held annually in Des Moines, draws hundreds of thousands of visitors and features a wide range of attractions, including agricultural exhibits, concerts, and educational displays like Snakes Alive. Moments such as Gertz’s encounter add to the fair’s reputation for providing both entertainment and community connection.
While the incident was light‑hearted, it also underscored the importance of safety protocols when handling large reptiles in public settings. The snake trainer and station staff acted quickly to ensure no one was harmed.
Original reporting: KCCI Des Moines — read the source article.
