Larry Mowry, a veteran meteorologist, has built a distinguished career marked by his expertise in severe weather coverage, connection with viewers, and numerous accolades. His journey has taken him from his Midwestern roots to various cities across the United States, ultimately leading him back to Chicago.
Early Life and Education
Mowry's passion for meteorology began in his childhood in Loudonville, Ohio. He recalls knowing he wanted to be a meteorologist as early as his senior year in high school, watching storms with his parents as the weather rolled into their small hometown in a valley in Ohio. He pursued that dream in college and graduated Cum Laude from Valparaiso University in Indiana with a Bachelor of Science in Meteorology and a Minor in Mathematics.
Career Highlights
Early Career and ABC 7 Beginnings (2003-2004)
Mowry's career began with freelance work at CLTV in 2003. He first joined ABC 7 in Chicago as a Saturday morning meteorologist in 2004, marking his initial foray into the Chicago television market.
Orlando and Dallas (2005-2016)
From 2005 to 2008, Mowry served as the Morning meteorologist at WKMG, the CBS station in Orlando, Florida. Following his time in Orlando, he joined KTVT, the CBS station in Dallas, Texas, in 2008. At KTVT, he held the position of chief meteorologist for the station's 5, 6, and 10 PM weekday newscasts, becoming a familiar face in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. During his time in Dallas, Mowry was on the air for countless tornado warnings and showing many tornadoes live.
Return to ABC 7 (2016-Present)
In March 2016, it was announced that Mowry would return to ABC 7 in Chicago. He officially rejoined the station on April 11, 2016, working alongside morning news anchors Stacey Baca and Ben Bradley on the weekend morning news at 5 AM, 6 AM and 8-10 AM. Mowry also covers the weather for ABC 7 News at 4 and 6 PM weekday newscasts.
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Upon his return, News Director Jennifer Graves expressed her enthusiasm, stating, "We are absolutely thrilled Larry is once again on our team. Not only is he an experienced meteorologist, but he connects to Chicago viewers and is a commanding and reliable presence when severe weather breaks."
Awards and Recognition
Mowry's career has been marked by numerous awards and accolades. He has garnered ten Lonestar Emmy Awards, including five for Best Weathercaster in the state of Texas. In 2017, Mowry was honored by the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences Chicago/Midwest Chapter with an Emmy Award for "Outstanding On Camera Talent - Weather Anchor."
Expertise in Severe Weather Coverage
Mowry is considered one of the best severe weather broadcast meteorologists in the country. His experience includes covering countless tornado warnings and showing many tornadoes live on the air during his time in Dallas. He is a Certified Broadcast Meteorologist (CBM) with the American Meteorological Society.
Personal Interests and Connections
Mowry's connection to weather extends beyond his professional life. In 2014, he participated in DFW.com’s “The Rainmakers” package about DFW meteorologists, where he shared his childhood fascination with storms. He also revealed his favorite weather song, "Windy" by The Association, citing his father's extensive knowledge of music as the inspiration.
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