The KSTP Weather Team Shakeup: 5 Major Changes, Controversies, And The Uncertain Future Of The Chief Meteorologist
The KSTP 5 Eyewitness News weather team has undergone one of its most significant periods of transition in recent memory, marked by key promotions, a notable new hire, and a high-profile legal controversy that has reshaped the Twin Cities’ meteorological landscape as of December 21, 2025. These changes reflect a dynamic shift in on-air talent and behind-the-scenes drama at the Hubbard Broadcasting-owned ABC affiliate, impacting the delivery of critical Minnesota weather forecasts, from severe weather alerts to everyday local news coverage.
The recent evolution of the KSTP weather department is a mix of strategic career advancements and unexpected departures. While familiar faces like Jonathan Yuhas and Matt Serwe continue their roles, the promotion of a fan-favorite and the arrival of a meteorologist with a unique background signal a fresh direction. However, the shadow of a major lawsuit and the lingering uncertainty surrounding the Chief Meteorologist's position have kept viewers and industry insiders keenly interested in the future of the team.
Meet the New and Evolved KSTP 5 Eyewitness News Weather Team Roster
The core of the KSTP weather team is comprised of experienced meteorologists who cover various newscasts, from the early morning to the late-night broadcasts on both KSTP-TV and 45TV. The following is a detailed look at the current roster and their key biographical and professional details, highlighting the entities that define the Twin Cities' primary weather coverage.
- Ken Barlow (Chief Meteorologist):
- Role: Chief Meteorologist, typically anchoring the main evening newscasts.
- Key Detail: A veteran of the Twin Cities market, Barlow has been a prominent figure at KSTP since 2011. He is also widely recognized for his public advocacy regarding mental health, specifically his openness about living with bipolar disorder.
- Current Status Note: His future with the station remains a topic of speculation following a recent LinkedIn post where he mentioned exploring new opportunities, though he is currently still in his role as Chief Meteorologist.
- Chris Reece (Weekday Evening Meteorologist):
- Role: Promoted to the highly visible weekday evening slot, covering the 5 p.m., 6 p.m., and 10 p.m. newscasts on 5 Eyewitness News, as well as the 9 p.m. news on 45TV.
- Key Detail: Reece joined KSTP in 2022 and quickly became a fan-favorite, leading to his significant promotion in late 2024/early 2025. His enthusiasm and strong connection with the audience are a major asset to the team's prime-time coverage.
- Matt Serwe (Morning Meteorologist):
- Role: Morning Meteorologist, guiding viewers through the start of their day with the early morning forecasts.
- Key Detail: Serwe joined KSTP in October 2021. He is known for his energetic on-air presence and is a key component of the morning news programming, including the station’s lifestyle show, Minnesota Live.
- Jonathan Yuhas (Meteorologist):
- Role: Broadcast Meteorologist, serving various newscasts.
- Key Detail: A long-standing member of the KSTP weather team, Yuhas has been with the station since August 2011, providing a consistent and experienced presence in the department.
- Dana Oleksuk (Meteorologist):
- Role: Newest addition to the weather team, covering weekend and fill-in forecasts.
- Key Detail: Oleksuk returned to the Twin Cities market after a period where she had launched a fitness career. Her previous experience includes working at Hubbard’s ABC affiliate in Duluth, bringing a familiar, regional perspective to the team.
The Controversial Exit and Legal Fallout: The Wren Clair Saga
One of the most talked-about changes to the KSTP weather department was the departure of meteorologist Wren Clair, which was followed by a significant legal battle that drew attention across the Twin Cities media market. The controversy centered on allegations of a hostile work environment and discrimination, making it a pivotal moment in the station's recent history.
Clair, who is also known by her legal name Renee Fox, left KSTP, and subsequently filed a sexual harassment and retaliation lawsuit against the station and its news director, Kirk Varner. The lawsuit, filed in Ramsey County, alleged that the news director repeatedly made inappropriate comments about her physical appearance and suggested she wear more revealing attire on air.
The case garnered widespread media attention as it highlighted sensitive issues of workplace conduct in local broadcasting. However, the legal chapter of this story concluded in a manner that is common in such high-profile cases. In a recent development, the lawsuit was formally dismissed by a Ramsey County judge after both Wren Clair and KSTP-TV filed a joint request for dismissal. This joint filing typically indicates that the parties have reached a confidential settlement agreement, bringing an official end to the legal dispute but leaving the underlying allegations as a notable part of the station's recent history.
Key Promotions and New Arrivals Driving the KSTP Forecast
While the departure of a meteorologist and the subsequent legal action created headlines, the more positive and forward-looking changes at KSTP involve the strategic promotion of existing talent and the recruitment of a familiar face. These moves are designed to strengthen the station’s commitment to providing accurate and timely severe weather coverage and daily forecasts to the Minnesota audience.
The Rise of Chris Reece to Weekday Evenings
The promotion of Chris Reece is arguably the most significant internal move in the KSTP weather department. Reece, who joined the station in 2022, quickly resonated with the Twin Cities viewership. His ascent to the role of Weekday Evening Meteorologist is a clear indication of the station’s confidence in his ability to handle the high-pressure, prime-time news slots. By securing a new contract and the 5 p.m., 6 p.m., and 10 p.m. broadcasts, Reece has cemented his position as a primary face of 5 Eyewitness News weather coverage, especially during critical weather events.
Dana Oleksuk’s Return to Twin Cities Television
The addition of Dana Oleksuk marks a strategic new hire for KSTP. Oleksuk is a meteorologist who made a return to the Twin Cities television market after spending some time exploring a career in the fitness industry. Her background, which includes work at a sister Hubbard station in Duluth, gives her valuable experience in forecasting the unique and often challenging Minnesota weather patterns. Her presence adds depth and flexibility to the KSTP team, especially on weekend broadcasts and as a backup for the main weekday team.
The Lingering Question: What is the Future for Chief Meteorologist Ken Barlow?
Despite the new hires and promotions, the biggest unanswered question for the KSTP weather team revolves around the status of Chief Meteorologist Ken Barlow. Barlow, a highly respected figure known for his long tenure and public service, recently sparked speculation about his future.
The uncertainty began when Barlow posted on his professional LinkedIn account indicating that he was exploring new career opportunities. While such a post is common in the industry, coming from a Chief Meteorologist at a major market station like KSTP, it immediately raised questions about a potential change in leadership for the weather department. As of late 2025, no official announcement has been made regarding his departure or a change in his role. He remains the Chief Meteorologist on the station's roster. However, the public nature of his post, coupled with Chris Reece’s promotion to the main evening slot, suggests that the station may be preparing for a potential transition in leadership, or that Barlow is simply weighing his long-term options after a distinguished career in the Twin Cities.
The combination of a high-profile legal settlement, the strategic promotion of a new star, the addition of a returning meteorologist, and the uncertain future of the Chief Meteorologist means the KSTP weather team is navigating a period of significant change. Viewers of 5 Eyewitness News can expect a refreshed on-air lineup, a continued focus on comprehensive Minnesota weather coverage, and a close eye on any further developments regarding the leadership of the department.
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