Chris Cozart: KLFY Chief Meteorologist – Biography, Age, Net Worth, Wife & More (2026)

Chris Cozart is a familiar face to residents of Acadiana, serving as the Chief Meteorologist at KLFY TV-10 in Lafayette, Louisiana. With a career spanning over two decades, he has guided the community through hurricanes, tornado outbreaks, and historic floods, earning a reputation for clear, life-saving forecasts. His calm on-air presence and dedication to public safety have made him a trusted voice in southern Louisiana weather.

Quick Facts

Early Life & Education

Chris Cozart was born on August 15, 1975, in Lafayette, Louisiana, and grew up surrounded by the unique weather patterns of the Gulf Coast. His fascination with meteorology began early—as a child he would chart daily temperatures and dream of tracking hurricanes. A defining moment came when the remnants of Hurricane Andrew swept through southern Louisiana in 1992, intensifying his passion for understanding violent storms.

He attended Lafayette High School, where he excelled in physics and earth sciences. After graduation, Cozart enrolled at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, earning a Bachelor of Science in Atmospheric Science in 1997. Eager to refine his on-camera skills, he completed the Broadcast Meteorology Program at Mississippi State University in 1999, a pathway that many television meteorologists follow. While in college, he interned at KLFY, laying the groundwork for what would become his career home.

Career Journey

First Steps in Broadcasting

Cozart’s professional road started behind the scenes. In 1999, he accepted a weather producer role at WAFB in Baton Rouge, where he honed his forecasting and graphics skills. Within a year, he moved in front of the camera as a weekend meteorologist at KATC in Lafayette, quickly building a reputation for clear, relatable weathercasts. Those early years prepared him for the high-stakes environment of a larger market station.

Joining KLFY and Rising Through the Ranks

In 2001, Chris Cozart joined KLFY TV-10 as a weekend meteorologist. Viewers immediately responded to his calm delivery and detailed explanations of complex weather systems. By 2005, he was promoted to morning meteorologist—a role that put him on the front lines during one of the most active hurricane seasons in history. That year he provided round-the-clock coverage of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, earning widespread trust across Acadiana.

When the chief meteorologist retired in 2010, station management turned to Cozart. He took over as Chief Meteorologist and began modernizing the weather department with advanced radar software and immersive graphics. His steady leadership during the 2016 and 2020 hurricane seasons—especially Hurricanes Laura and Delta, which devastated parts of southwest Louisiana—cemented his status as an indispensable community resource.

Covering Historic Weather

Beyond hurricanes, Cozart guided viewers through the 2021 ice storm that paralyzed Louisiana, the 2016 flood disaster, and countless tornado outbreaks. His hallmark has always been putting public safety ahead of ratings, often overriding scheduled programming to stay on the air until danger passes. Colleagues praise his ability to translate complex meteorological data into actionable advice that anyone can understand.

2026: A Landmark Year

In 2026, Chris Cozart celebrated 25 years at KLFY—a milestone few broadcasters reach at a single station. The anniversary was marked with a special series, “Weathering the Years,” featuring highlights from his career and interviews with first responders who relied on his forecasts. Capitalizing on the digital shift, he launched the weekly podcast “Acadiana Weather Watch,” dissecting upcoming weather patterns and providing seasonal outlooks. Additionally, he began a mentorship program with local middle schools, using weather to spark interest in STEM careers.

2026: A Year of Milestones

Beyond the career anniversary, 2026 brought national recognition. The Louisiana Association of Broadcasters presented Cozart with a Lifetime Achievement Award, citing his quarter-century of service and his calm guidance during emergencies. He also received the Mississippi State Broadcaster of Distinction honor for the second time. On a personal note, his son Ethan graduated from Louisiana State University in May 2026, a proud moment the family celebrated together.

Personal Life

Away from the weather center, Chris Cozart leads a grounded family life. He married his college sweetheart, Jennifer, in 1998, and the couple has two children: Ethan, born in 2002, and Lily, born in 2006. The Cozarts live in Lafayette, close to the station and the extended family. Jennifer works as a pediatric nurse, and the household revolves around school events, LSU football games, and Sunday crawfish boils.

When he isn’t analyzing radar loops, Cozart enjoys bass fishing on the Atchafalaya Basin, experimenting with Cajun recipes in his outdoor kitchen, and tailgating with friends. His community involvement is extensive—he volunteers for the American Red Cross, speaks at school safety events, and supports St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Friends describe him as genuine, quick with a joke, and fiercely protective of those he loves.

Dating History & Relationships

Chris Cozart’s romantic life has been remarkably straightforward. He dated Jennifer throughout college, and they married shortly after his graduation. There are no public records of previous serious relationships or affairs; the couple’s enduring partnership has become a local example of commitment.

Awards & Achievements

• National Weather Association Television Seal of Approval
• Three Emmy Awards for Best Weathercast (2015, 2018, 2021)
• Associated Press Best Weather Segment – Louisiana/Mississippi Region (multiple years)
• Louisiana Broadcasters Association Excellence in Weathercasting
• Mississippi State Broadcaster of Distinction (2012, 2026)
• Lifetime Achievement Award – Louisiana Broadcasters Association (2026)
• Citizen of the Year – Lafayette Civic Club (2019)

Physical Statistics

Height: 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm)
Weight: 180 lbs (82 kg)
Hair Color: Brown
Eye Color: Blue
Build: Athletic
Shoe Size: 10 (US)

Quotes

“My job is to protect lives, not just tell you if it’s going to rain on your barbecue.”

“Every hurricane season, I remind viewers that it only takes one storm to change your life.”

“The Acadiana community is family. When severe weather threatens, we look out for each other.”

Controversies

In 2018, Cozart faced criticism when a flash flood event proved far more severe than his initial forecast indicated. Several neighborhoods flooded with little warning, leading to public frustration. He addressed the error on air the following evening, apologized sincerely, and worked with the station to integrate additional model data into the forecasting workflow. The incident spurred a renewed commitment to transparency that ultimately strengthened viewer trust.

Favorites

• Food: Crawfish étouffée
• Movie: The Weather Man (2005)
• Hobby: Largemouth bass fishing
• Sports Team: LSU Tigers (football, baseball)
• Vacation Spot: Grand Isle, Louisiana
• Music: Zydeco and classic rock

Salary & Net Worth

As chief meteorologist at a respected mid-market station, Chris Cozart commands an estimated annual salary between $120,000 and $150,000. In 2026, a contract renewal—tied to his 25-year milestone—included a modest raise and expanded digital media duties that added to his compensation. Beyond the station, he earns speaking fees for weather safety seminars and has built a small portfolio of residential real estate in Lafayette Parish.

Industry analysts place his 2026 net worth around $1.5 million, a figure that reflects steady earnings, smart investments, and a careful financial approach over a career lasting more than a quarter-century.

Interesting Facts

• He once built a functioning weather balloon from a kit and launched it from his backyard to track wind shear.
• Cozart plays the accordion and occasionally performs at local Cajun music jams.
• His garage holds a collection of over 5,000 Mardi Gras beads gathered from decades of parade attendance.
• During a live 2020 hurricane broadcast, the studio lost power; he continued the forecast using a battery-powered lantern and handwritten notes.

Did You Know Already?

Chris Cozart once delivered a live weather update while standing in the back of a rescue boat during the 2016 Lafayette flood. The dramatic broadcast helped raise awareness and assisted emergency dispatchers in directing resources to the hardest-hit neighborhoods.

Social Media Links

• Facebook: facebook.com/ChrisCozartWX
• Twitter/X: @ChrisCozartWX
• Instagram: @chriscozartwx
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/chriscozart

Frequently Asked Questions

How long has Chris Cozart been at KLFY?

Chris Cozart joined KLFY in 2001, making 2026 his 25th year at the station. He has served as Chief Meteorologist since 2010.

What is Chris Cozart’s educational background?

He earned a B.S. in Atmospheric Science from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette and completed the Broadcast Meteorology Program at Mississippi State University.

Is Chris Cozart married?

Yes, he has been married to his wife Jennifer since 1998. The couple has two children, Ethan and Lily.

What is Chris Cozart’s net worth in 2026?

Estimates place his net worth at approximately $1.5 million, accumulated through his broadcasting salary, public speaking, and real estate investments.

What awards has Chris Cozart won?

His honors include three Emmy Awards, the Louisiana Broadcasters Association Lifetime Achievement Award, and the NWA Television Seal of Approval, among others.

How tall is Chris Cozart?

He stands 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) tall.

Conclusion

Chris Cozart has built a career on trust, preparation, and an authentic connection to the people of Acadiana. From his early days as a weather producer to leading KLFY’s storm coverage for a quarter-century, he remains the voice that viewers rely on when the skies turn dangerous. If you found this profile helpful, please share it with friends or on social media to spread the word about this dedicated meteorologist.