Beloved CBS Meteorologist Dies in Plane Crash, Leaving Community Mourning

Roland Steadham, the beloved chief meteorologist for CBS2 in Idaho, tragically passed away in a plane crash on Tuesday. This devastating incident occurred when the small aircraft he was piloting struck a power line and subsequently plunged into the Payette River in Black Canyon around 11 a.m. The details surrounding the crash were reported by the Gem County Sheriff’s Office.

Community Mourning the Loss of a Local Icon

Steadham was not just a well-respected meteorologist; he was a cherished member of the local community. His presence at CBS2 spanned over three decades, during which he became known for his warmth, dedication, and passion for weather forecasting. “Roland often spoke about his wife, Erin, and his six children and grandchildren,” the CBS2 statement highlighted.

A Family Man at Heart

• He frequently shared stories about family outings, like kayaking throughout Idaho.
• Steadham enjoyed grilling in his backyard with loved ones.
• He took great pride in his children’s achievements and their love for the outdoors.

His commitment to family was matched only by his enthusiasm for meteorology. Steadham was known to engage his audience with fascinating weather insights, making his excitement for the subject contagious.

A Passion for Aviation

In addition to his meteorological career, Steadham was an accomplished pilot who operated a small aircraft out of Emmett. He loved flying and frequently shared memorable stories about local pilots with the community.

A Lasting Legacy

Roland Steadham’s contributions to the field of meteorology were significant. He guided many through adverse weather conditions and trained numerous meteorologists who continue to serve across the country. His dedication to informing the public about weather patterns made him a beloved figure in the Treasure Valley.

CBS2 extended their thoughts and prayers to Steadham’s family, friends, and the flying community in the wake of this tragedy. They also expressed condolences to the family of the other individual lost in the crash. The void left by Steadham’s absence will be deeply felt in the community he served.