Where’s Chuck? Getting Ready to Retire
WTHR-TV Channel 13, the TEGNA-owned NBC affiliate in Indianapolis and the news-gathering partner of The Paper of Montgomery County and the Noblesville Times, recently shared that meteorologist, Chuck Lofton, whose 40-year career at the station has made a lasting impact on the central Indiana community, is going to retire in June. Lofton joined WTHR-TV with the launch of 13 Sunrise in 1985, bringing with him a passion for weather and a commitment to delivering accurate forecasts to viewers. Over the decades, he has become a household name and a trusted voice in central Indiana, known for his engaging personality, insightful analysis and dedication to public service.
“Chuck has been an integral part of WTHR and the Indianapolis community for decades, with a passion for keeping Hoosiers informed and prepared for Indiana weather.” Michael Brouder, President and General Manager of WTHR-TV, said. “His dedication to serving viewers across this great state has set the standard for excellence in broadcasting. While we will miss him dearly, we celebrate his incredible career and the many lives he has touched.”
Throughout his tenure, Lofton has covered everything from tornadoes, blizzards, and severe weather to the Great American Eclipse of 2017 and 2024 Total Solar Eclipse in Indianapolis. He has also been a fixture during WTHR’s coverage of marquee local events including the Indianapolis 500, Brickyard 400, Indianapolis Colts, Indiana Pacers, and Indy Fuel sporting events. Lofton has proudly emceed the city’s annual “Circle of Lights” holiday event and has been the voice of the 500 Festival Parade in May.
Lofton is recognized throughout the U.S. with his beloved “Chuck’s Big Adventure” series that sends him around the country, highlighting memorable trips and vacation spots for Hoosiers.
In addition to his meteorological duties, Lofton is a frequent speaker at local churches, schools and civic organizations, including the American Heart Association, the Eiteljorg Museum, Overseas Council, Damar Services, Hope Healthcare Services, Noble Centers, and many more. Lofton has also served on several advisory boards including the Salvation Army and the National Weather Association.
Lofton has earned numerous regional Emmy® awards, Society of Professional Journalists awards, and Associated Press awards. In 2022, he was inducted into the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences’ Silver Circle recognizing Lofton for his 25+ years of distinguished service in the TV industry.
As Lofton prepares for retirement, he reflects on his time at WTHR with gratitude. “It has been an absolute honor to serve Indianapolis for 40 years. I am so thankful for the relationships and trust I’ve built to help Hoosiers get their mornings started for so many years. I am looking forward to spending some important quality time with my family and pursuing new adventures. I am so grateful though to have had such a wonderful job, working with so many wonderful people.”
Lofton’s final 13Sunrise broadcast is scheduled for early June of 2025. WTHR will invite viewers to join in a celebration of his remarkable career in the coming months.