Emmy award-winning weatherman Al Roker brings science education to young viewers through adventure and family storytelling
The new PBS KIDS animated series Weather Hunters premiered Sept. 8 at 7:30 a.m. on ETV, bringing science education and weather awareness to children ages 5-8. Viewers were introduced to eight-year-old weather detective Lily Hunter and her family. This 22-minute animated series is created by Emmy award-winning weatherman and TODAY host Al Roker, who also lends his voice to Lily’s dad, Al Hunter. Weather Hunters is designed to support kids' understanding of weather, Earth science and meteorology through adventure and comedy, adding to South Carolina ETV and Public Radio’s (SCETV’s) suite of weather-related educational program offerings.
Each episode follows the adventures of the Hunter family as they demonstrate key weather, climate and environmental concepts that provide building blocks for further learning. Topics include observing and tracking weather patterns, exploring why weather changes can be different around the country and the world, and understanding the connection between humans and the environment. The inventively animated stories feature natural weather phenomena, giving the series a unique, contemporary and original look that makes complex scientific concepts accessible to all young learners.
Digital content for kids, parents and teachers will launch in tandem with the series on pbskids.org to reinforce the show's key messages and encourage further engagement, with the first game from the series allowing kids to create their very own weather report.
The premiere of Weather Hunters aligns with SCETV’s comprehensive commitment to weather education and emergency preparedness. SCETV has long recognized the critical importance of weather literacy and public safety through its multi-platform approach to weather coverage and emergency response. The network provides daily weather forecasts during SC Public Radio's Morning Edition and All Things Considered, delivered by Chief Meteorologist Tim Miller, who also serves as director of the South Carolina Emergency Information Network (SCEIN) and leads the Florida Public Radio Emergency Network (FPREN) at the University of Florida.
SCETV's dedication to weather education also extends beyond daily forecasts to include educational resources for K-12 students, with weather-related materials spanning all grade levels from elementary through high school. These resources include interactive content, downloadable materials and support materials that help educators bring weather science into the classroom. For additional weather and climate educational resources, visit the KnowItAll.org Weather and Climate collection.
During major weather events and emergencies, SCETV demonstrates its commitment to public service through multi-platform coverage across its television, radio, online and social media platforms. The network's approach ensures that critical information reaches audiences across the state through live broadcasts of press conferences, real-time updates from emergency management officials, and strategic dissemination of safety information and community resources. This integrated coverage model maximizes accessibility for all South Carolinians while fostering community resilience during times of crisis.
SCETV's partnership with the South Carolina Emergency Management Division and other state agencies ensure the effective dissemination of vital information during emergencies. The network also maintains a dedicated weather page that serves as a centralized hub for residents seeking guidance during emergencies.
This October, SCETV will premiere Weathering the Flood: South Carolina 10 Years Later on Oct. 2 at 8 p.m., marking the 10th anniversary of the historic “thousand-year” flooding in South Carolina. This 30-minute special reflects on the storm’s immediate impact and explores how people and communities have changed in the decade since. Through archival footage, personal stories and expert insight, the program examines both the hardships endured and the resilience that continues to shape South Carolina today.
Created by Al Roker, Weather Hunters is produced by New York-based WeatherHunters, Inc. and Dete Meserve's Silver Creek Falls Entertainment, Inc. Dete Meserve (Ready Jet Go! Space Camp) serves as Executive Producer and Showrunner, while three-time Daytime Emmy winner Carin Greenberg (Tumble Leaf, Duck & Goose) serves as Executive Producer. Daytime Emmy-nominated John Semper, Jr. (Jay Jay the Jet Plane, Jim Henson's Fraggle Rock) serves as Executive Producer and Head Writer, and two-time Emmy winner Lisa Tucker serves as Executive Producer. Actress Yvette Nicole Brown (Community) performs the main title song, while Jim Lang (Ready Jet Go!, Hey Arnold!) serves as series composer.
Weather Hunters is made possible with funding from the Anne Ray Foundation, PBS and the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.
The series will air weekdays on ETV at 7:30 a.m. and will also be available to stream online at SCETV.org/kids as well as in the SCETV App and PBS KIDS App.
QUOTES
“Weather Hunters represents exactly the kind of educational programming that exemplifies our commitment at South Carolina ETV - content that not only entertains but genuinely prepares our young viewers to understand and engage with the world around them. Weather literacy is a critical life skill, and this series perfectly complements our comprehensive approach to serving South Carolina families through trusted, science-based information during both everyday learning and emergencies.” –SCETV President and CEO Adrienne Fairwell
“We're thrilled to add Weather Hunters to our educational programming lineup because it seamlessly integrates STEM learning with storytelling that resonates with young learners. This series will serve as an excellent complement to our existing K-12 weather education resources, providing educators and families with engaging content that makes complex meteorological concepts accessible and exciting for children. The show's focus on environmental stewardship and scientific observation perfectly aligns with our educational goals.” –SCETV Chief Learning Officer Dr. Salandra Bowman
“As someone who delivers weather forecasts to South Carolina families every day, I'm excited about Weather Hunters and its potential to inspire the next generation of weather-aware citizens. Understanding weather patterns and phenomena isn't just academic - it's essential for safety and preparedness in our state. This series will help children develop the foundational knowledge they need to make informed decisions about weather throughout their lives, and it reinforces the same scientific principles we use in our emergency response efforts through SCEIN.” –SCEIN Chief Meteorologist Tim Miller
FAST FACTS
- The new PBS KIDS animated series Weather Hunters premiered Sept. 8 at 7:30 a.m. on ETV
- Created by Emmy-winning weatherman and TODAY host Al Roker, who also lends his voice to Lily’s dad, Al Hunter, this 22-minute animated series is designed to support kids' understanding of weather, Earth science and meteorology through adventure and comedy.
- The premiere of Weather Hunters aligns with SCETV's comprehensive commitment to weather education and emergency preparedness.
- The series will air weekdays on ETV and will also be available to stream online at SCETV.org/kids as well as in the SCETV App and PBS KIDS App.
About South Carolina ETV and Public Radio
South Carolina ETV and Public Radio (SCETV) is the state's public educational broadcasting network. SCETV amplifies South Carolina voices, provides educational experiences and strengthens communities, while working toward creating a stronger, more connected and informed South Carolina. In addition to airing local programs, such as The Know Show, Making It Grow, and This Week in South Carolina, SCETV also presents multiple programs to regional and national audiences, including Books By The River, After Action, Reconnecting Roots, Reel South, Downing of a Flag and Southern Songwriters with Patrick Davis.
About PBS
PBS offers all Americans the opportunity to explore new ideas and new worlds through television and digital content. Each month, PBS reaches over 36 million adults on linear primetime television, more than 16 million users on PBS-owned streaming platforms, 53 million viewers on YouTube, and 60 million people view PBS content on social media, inviting them to experience the worlds of science, history, nature, and public affairs and to take front-row seats to world-class drama and performances. PBS’s broad array of programs has been consistently honored by the industry’s most coveted award competitions. Teachers of children from pre-K through 12th grade turn to PBS LearningMedia for digital content and services that help bring classroom lessons to life. As the number one educational media brand, PBS KIDS helps children 2-8 build critical skills, enabling them to find success in school and life. Delivered through member stations, PBS KIDS offers high-quality content on TV — including a PBS KIDS channel — and streaming free on pbskids.org and the PBS KIDS Video app, games on the PBS KIDS Games app, and in communities across America. More information about PBS is available at PBS.org, one of the leading dot-org websites on the internet, Facebook, Instagram, or through our apps for mobile and connected devices. Specific program information and updates for press are available at pbs.org/pressroom or by following PBS Communications on X.
Media Contact
Landon Masters
media@scetv.org
(803) 737-3337
New PBS KIDS Animated Series Weather Hunters Premieres Sept. 8 on ETV (PDF)