Efren Afante is a prominent American meteorologist currently serving as the Chief Meteorologist at WLTX News19 in Columbia, South Carolina. With a career spanning over a decade, Afante has established himself as a trusted figure in weather forecasting, particularly in the southeastern United States. His expertise encompasses a wide range of meteorological phenomena, including hurricanes, tornadoes, and severe thunderstorms, making him a vital resource for the Midlands community during extreme weather events.
Early Life and Education
Born in New York, Efren Afante developed an early interest in the sciences, which led him to pursue a career in meteorology. He graduated from the University of Oklahoma in 2013 with a Bachelor of Science in Geography and a minor in Meteorology. During his time at the university, Afante gained hands-on experience as an undergraduate meteorology research assistant, contributing to significant projects such as the Verification of Rotation of Tornadoes Experiment 2 (VORTEX2) and the Deep Convective Clouds and Chemistry (DC3) Project. These experiences provided him with a solid foundation in atmospheric science and severe weather research.
Professional Career
Afante’s professional journey began with internships at KOCO-TV in Oklahoma City and Drewry Broadcasting Group in Lawton, Oklahoma. These early experiences allowed him to hone his skills in weather forecasting and broadcast journalism. After completing his education, he joined WJTV in Jackson, Mississippi, where he worked as a broadcast meteorologist from 2013 to 2015. During his tenure at WJTV, Afante covered several significant weather events, including the 2013 Oklahoma tornadoes and the 2015 South Carolina floods, showcasing his ability to provide accurate and timely weather information under pressure.
In May 2015, Afante joined WLTX News19 in Columbia, South Carolina, initially serving as a morning meteorologist. His dedication and expertise led to his promotion to Chief Meteorologist in May 2019, succeeding the retiring Jim Gandy. In this role, Afante oversees the station’s weather coverage, providing forecasts and updates for the Midlands region. He specializes in forecasting severe weather events, including hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, and winter storms, ensuring that the community receives reliable information to prepare for and respond to extreme weather conditions.
Notable Weather Events Covered
- 2013 Oklahoma TornadoesAfante provided comprehensive coverage of the devastating tornadoes that struck Oklahoma in May 2013, delivering critical information to viewers during a time of crisis.
- 2015 South Carolina FloodsDuring the historic floods in October 2015, Afante’s timely and accurate forecasts helped residents prepare for the unprecedented rainfall and flooding in the Midlands region.
- 2014 Central U.S. Tornado OutbreakAfante reported on the widespread tornado outbreak that affected the central United States in April 2014, offering viewers essential information to stay safe during the severe weather event.
Personal Life and Interests
Outside of his professional endeavors, Efren Afante leads a private life. While details about his personal relationships are not publicly disclosed, he is known to have a passion for coffee and is an avid hockey fan. Afante’s social media presence reflects his enthusiasm for these interests, often sharing updates and engaging with followers. His dedication to both his career and personal hobbies highlights his well-rounded character and commitment to maintaining a balanced lifestyle.
Social Media and Community Engagement
Efren Afante actively engages with the community through various social media platforms, providing weather updates, safety information, and personal insights. His presence on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook allows him to connect with viewers beyond the television screen, fostering a sense of community and trust. Afante’s approachable demeanor and willingness to interact with the public have contributed to his popularity and credibility as a meteorologist.
Social Media Profiles
- X (formerly Twitter) @EfrenWLTX
- Facebook EfrenWLTX
Efren Afante’s dedication to the field of meteorology and his commitment to serving the Columbia, South Carolina community have solidified his reputation as a trusted and reliable weather expert. Through his extensive education, diverse career experiences, and active community engagement, Afante continues to provide invaluable weather information to the Midlands region. His work not only informs but also empowers residents to make informed decisions during severe weather events, reinforcing the critical role of meteorologists in public safety and awareness.