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Gary England, Iconic Oklahoma Meteorologist, Passes Away at 85

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Gary England Meteorologist

OKLAHOMA CITY – Longtime News 9 Chief Meteorologist Gary England has died at the age of 85, his family confirmed Tuesday evening.

Born on October 3, 1939, in Seiling, Oklahoma, England earned a degree in mathematics and meteorology from the University of Oklahoma in 1965 after serving three years in the U.S. Navy. He became an internationally recognized expert in severe weather broadcasts.

In 1981, England became the first person to use Enterprise Electronics Doppler radar, greatly improving how severe weather warnings were communicated to the public. He also created the automated First Warning system in 1990, which displayed instant weather maps on television screens. The following year, England introduced the StormTracker, a system that projected storms’ paths, which is now used nationwide.

Throughout his career, England authored four books and appeared in over 50 weather-related programs, including Steven Spielberg’s film “Twister.” In 2006, he was a keynote speaker at the dedication of the National Weather Center in Norman, Oklahoma.

In 2007, as part of Oklahoma’s Centennial celebration, England was honored with a bust sculpted to commemorate ‘100 Heroes and Outlaws’ of the state. His notable contributions earned him three Emmy Awards and the National Edward R. Murrow Award for Best in Breaking News and Weather, among numerous local accolades.

England was inducted into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame in 2013. For 41 years, he was a trusted voice on News 9, guiding Oklahomans through severe weather.

The family released a statement saying, “We are heartbroken to announce that our beloved Gary England passed this evening. He passed peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, including his wife of 63 years, Mary, and daughter Molly. He will be deeply and forever missed.”

Gary England is survived by his wife Mary, daughter Molly, and granddaughters Cassidy and Chloe. He will be remembered for his dedication and contributions to weather broadcasting in Oklahoma.