Nebraska Meteorologist Kent Boughton Announces Stage 4 Cancer Diagnosis

GRAND ISLAND, Neb. — Kent Boughton, chief forecaster for News Channel Nebraska, announced on Friday, March 20, 2026, that he has been diagnosed with stage 4 small cell carcinoma [KSNB]. Boughton shared the news in a video posted on his Facebook page.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Boughton explained that he sought medical attention after experiencing a loss of voice. Testing revealed a tumor in his lung had grown against his left tonsil, causing paralysis [KSNB]. He stated, “If that hadn’t happened, I wouldn’t have known I had cancer.”

He has already completed one round of chemotherapy and has another scheduled for the conclude of March [KSNB]. Despite the challenges ahead, Boughton intends to continue forecasting for News Channel Nebraska, even if his voice is affected by treatment.

A Positive Outlook

Despite receiving a difficult diagnosis, Boughton maintained an optimistic outlook. He emphasized that there is no predetermined expiration date for anyone, stating, “There is no barcode anywhere on my body that gives me an expiration date… I’m going to fight to the end.” [KSNB]

A Long Career

Kent Boughton has dedicated over 50 years to broadcasting. He began his career as a radio announcer at KRGI in Grand Island before transitioning to television weather forecasting in 1977 at KIFI-TV in Idaho Falls [KSNB]. He later worked at KHAS-TV in Hastings (now KSNB Local4) for 12 years, including coverage of the 1980 Grand Island tornadoes. He then spent more than 20 years at NTV in Kearney, starting in 1999. In 2024, Boughton was inducted into the Nebraska Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame [KSNB].

Community Support

Boughton expressed gratitude for the support of his family, colleagues, the Grand Island community and viewers across Nebraska. He asked for prayers, stating, “I don’t need anything from any of you, except your prayers.” [KSNB]