Betsy Kling is an American meteorologist and broadcast journalist best known as the Chief Meteorologist at WKYC Channel 3 in Cleveland, Ohio. Celebrated for her calm authority, scientific accuracy, and viewer-first approach, Kling has earned a reputation as one of the most trusted weather professionals in local television news. Her career reflects a rare balance of technical expertise, leadership, and community connection.
Quick Bio
Full Name: Betsy Kling
Profession: Meteorologist, Television News Anchor
Known For: Chief Meteorologist at WKYC Channel 3 (NBC)
Date of Birth: March 3, 1975
Age: 51 years old
Place of Birth: Copley, Ohio, United States
Nationality: American
Ethnicity: Caucasian
Years Active: Late 1990s–present
Estimated Net Worth: $1.5–$3 million
Early Life & Midwest Roots
Betsy Kling was born and raised in Copley, Ohio, a community shaped by dramatic seasonal weather. Growing up in Northeast Ohio exposed her to everything from lake-effect snow to severe thunderstorms, sparking a natural curiosity about how weather works and how it impacts daily life. These early experiences laid the foundation for both her scientific interests and her deep connection to the region she would later serve on air.
Betsy Kling was raised in Copley, Ohio, in a close-knit family environment. While she has spoken openly about her upbringing in Northeast Ohio, she has chosen not to publicly disclose the names of her parents.
Her family includes two siblings, Toni Hadad and Fran Diblasi, and her early household emphasized practical values and stability. Publicly available information notes that her mother worked as a seamstress during Betsy’s childhood, contributing to the family while she was growing up.
Education & Meteorological Training
Kling pursued her passion academically, earning a bachelor’s degree in journalism with a minor in meteorology from Bowling Green State University.
To strengthen her forecasting expertise, she completed advanced meteorology training through Mississippi State University, equipping her with the technical and analytical skills required for high-stakes broadcast weather coverage.
Career Beginnings
Betsy Kling began her broadcast career in regional television markets, where she gained hands-on experience delivering forecasts, covering breaking weather events, and reporting live under pressure. Her ability to translate complex meteorological data into clear, practical information quickly set her apart in the newsroom.
WKYC Channel 3 & Career Breakthrough
Kling’s career reached new heights after joining WKYC Channel 3 in Cleveland. Over time, she rose through the ranks to become Chief Meteorologist, leading the station’s weather team and serving as a primary on-air authority during major snowstorms, severe thunderstorms, and regional weather emergencies.
Her steady delivery and emphasis on preparedness rather than sensationalism have made her a trusted presence in millions of homes across Northeast Ohio.
Professional Credentials & Expertise
Betsy Kling holds the Certified Broadcast Meteorologist designation from the American Meteorological Society, as well as the Seal of Approval from the National Weather Association.
These credentials represent the highest professional standards in broadcast meteorology and underscore her commitment to accuracy, ethics, and public safety.
Awards & Industry Recognition
- Multiple Emmy Awards for excellence in weather broadcasting
- Industry honors recognizing leadership in severe weather coverage
- Long-term recognition for contributions to local television journalism
STEM Advocacy & Community Impact
Beyond the newsroom, Kling is a passionate advocate for science education and STEM engagement.
She regularly participates in school programs, public events, and mentorship initiatives aimed at inspiring young people—particularly girls—to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Personal Life
Betsy Kling is married to Paul Thomas, a fellow broadcast professional. Their shared background in television and journalism has given them a strong understanding of the demands that come with a public-facing career.
Despite both working in media, Kling and her husband maintain a very private personal life. They rarely make public appearances together and generally avoid discussing their relationship in interviews, choosing instead to keep the focus on family and professional responsibilities.
Their marriage is widely viewed as supportive and stable, allowing Kling to successfully balance the pressures of live television, leadership duties, and motherhood. Together, they have built a family-centered life while remaining closely connected to the Cleveland community.
Husband’s Name: Paul Thomas
Marital Status: Married
Children: Two daughters
Net Worth
Betsy Kling’s estimated net worth is between $1.5 million and $3 million, reflecting decades of success in broadcast journalism, her leadership role at WKYC, and professional engagements beyond television.
Trivia & Facts
- Became the first woman to serve as Chief Meteorologist at WKYC, marking a milestone in Cleveland television history
- Worked in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and Jacksonville, Florida before returning to broadcast in her home state
- Created the “Growing STEM” initiative to spotlight women and girls pursuing science and technology careers
- Holds both major US broadcast weather credentials, a distinction achieved by a limited number of professionals
- Inducted into the NATAS Silver Circle, recognizing more than 25 years of television broadcasting experience
- Named Best of Cleveland Weather Forecaster multiple times through reader-based local recognition
- Raised in Copley, Ohio, and later built her professional career in the same regional market
FAQs
How old is Betsy Kling?
She is 51 years old.
What is Betsy Kling best known for?
She is best known as the Chief Meteorologist at WKYC Channel 3 and one of Cleveland’s most trusted weather authorities.
Is Betsy Kling married?
Yes. She is married and has two children.
