Iowa Meteorologist Jeriann Ritter Reveals ALS Diagnosis, Ending 20-Year Career

Jeriann Ritter, a prominent meteorologist in Iowa, has announced her diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), concluding her 20-year career at WHO 13. During an emotional on-air interview, she shared her journey, revealing the challenges she faced with her speech and the impact of the disease on her life. Despite the diagnosis, Ritter remains optimistic, expressing her desire to continue living fully and sharing her love for weather. Her story highlights the struggles of dealing with a neurodegenerative disease while inspiring viewers with her resilience and positivity.

By Narendra Chaudhary Feb 25, 2026, 23:51 IST

Jeriann Ritter's Heartfelt Announcement

Jeriann Ritter, a well-known figure in Iowa's television landscape, has disclosed her diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), marking the conclusion of her two-decade tenure as a meteorologist at WHO 13 in Des Moines. The 49-year-old made this announcement during a poignant on-air segment that aired on Tuesday. She explained that after experiencing changes in her speech for several months, medical professionals diagnosed her with bulbar ALS, a variant of the neurodegenerative condition that primarily impacts speech, swallowing, and breathing. “I enjoy discussing the weather, but I don’t relish talking about ALS,” Ritter expressed to her colleague Keith Murphy during the segment. “That’s what the doctors believe is behind my speech difficulties.” Unfortunately, she was informed that there is no current treatment or cure for ALS. Ritter had hoped her symptoms were indicative of a less severe issue. “If the doctors are correct, I may be finished with my weather reports,” she remarked. “However, I still have plenty to share.” She concluded with a positive note, stating, “I will continue to live and love, just as I have for nearly 50 years.”

Background on Jeriann Ritter

For over 20 years, Jeriann Ritter has been a prominent presence on Iowa television. She became part of WHO 13 in 2004 and earned the trust of viewers in Des Moines and surrounding areas as a reliable meteorologist. After years of hosting the morning show, she transitioned to the noon and 4 PM broadcasts in 2022. Her health issues began in October when she first noticed unusual changes in her speech. By November, viewers had started reaching out to her online, expressing concern over the visible alterations during her broadcasts. Initially suspecting a dental problem, Ritter consulted her dentist, thinking her teeth were shifting. After seeing several doctors, she was referred to a neurologist. “That was the moment she examined my tongue and suspected bulbar ALS,” Ritter recounted. “I was not ready to hear that diagnosis; I genuinely believed it was something minor.” In January, she addressed her audience through a social media video, expressing gratitude for their concern and assuring them she was pursuing medical care. “When my greatest joy is communicating and it’s becoming increasingly difficult, it’s quite disheartening,” she shared at that time.