Laurel Blanchard
Laurel Blanchard joined the FOX 35 Storm Team as a meteorologist in July 2024.
Laurel's journey into meteorology began at a young age in her hometown of Abington, Massachusetts, where she shared morning weather reports with her great-grandfather, igniting her lifelong passion for weather. Embracing the unpredictable nature of weather, Laurel fondly adopts the saying, "If you don’t like the weather, just wait 5 minutes," a sentiment familiar to New Englanders.
She earned her bachelor of science in meteorology from Millersville University in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and earned minors in mathematics and emergency management. She graduated Cum Laude.
During college, Blanchard served as president of the school's chapter of the American Meteorological Society.
Before moving to Orlando, Laurel worked at WJHL-TV in Johnson City, Tennessee. She covered dozens of severe weather events there. She also taught meteorology classes at Tusculum University's Upward Bound Summer Academy. She also interned at a station in Peoria, Illinois.
Outside the newsroom, Laurel adores her rescue dog, "Honey." She enjoys trying new restaurants and coffee shops, watching movies, crocheting, and local theater. She's eager to explore Orlando and learn more about her new home.
To connect with Laurel or stay updated on her forecasts and activities, you can find her on Instagram, Facebook, and X.
The latest from Laurel Blanchard
Orlando weather: Showers linger tonight before sunnier, warmer weekend
Rain will taper off during the early overnight hours, though clouds are expected to linger. Temperatures will remain mild, with lows in the low to mid-60s.
High rip current risk on Florida coast: Tips to stay safe in the water
Florida's coast, from Palm Coast to Miami, is expected to have a high risk for rip currents -- a red flag -- through Sunday, March 22. Here's how to spot a rip current and stay safe.
Orlando weather: Sunshine and 80s return for first weekend of spring
As Spring officially sprung – starting this morning at 10 a.m. – this weekend's temperatures look promising for an outdoor adventure in the sunshine. Here's what to expect.
Orlando weather: Milder tonight, with sunny and warm weekend ahead
Skies will be mostly cloudy along the coast as some clouds drift in from the Atlantic, while inland areas can expect partly cloudy conditions.
Orlando weather: Cold front brings rain, seasonable temps for St. Patrick's Day
The same cold front that has been producing severe weather across the heart of the nation and parts of the South moves toward Central Florida today.
Orlando breaks heat records, hits 90 degrees for first time this year
Orlando reached 90 degrees on Tuesday, March 10, marking the first 90-degree day of the year. It also tied the 108-year-old daily heat record set back in 1918.
Orlando weather: Fire weather warning in effect as rain returns for the weekend
An increased risk of fire weather danger exists for the rest of the evening. Low humidity, gusty winds, and worsening drought will combine for a high threat of brush fires.
Orlando weather: Warm, windy weekend; spotty showers could impact the Daytona 500
This weekend will be another warm and sunny one as temperatures climb into the upper 70s. However, there is a chance for a few isolated showers.
Flagler County declares state of local emergency amid severe drought and wildfire risk
Flagler County officials declared a state of local emergency as dry conditions continue to fuel the threat of wildfires in the region. A burn ban is now in effect, aimed at reducing the risk of fire-related incidents during this critical period.