WUSA9 meteorologist Makayla Lucero has announced that she is stepping away from television news, marking the end of nearly a decade in broadcast meteorology.
Lucero, who joined WUSA9 after stints in East Texas and Jacksonville, Florida, built a career covering everything from record-breaking heat and tornado outbreaks to hurricanes making landfall along the Florida coast. A graduate of the University of Northern Colorado, she has always called Denver home, where her family still lives and where she often visits her parents, sisters, and niece.
In a statement shared with viewers, Lucero reflected on her journey in local news:
“After nearly a decade of pursuing my dream of being a broadcast meteorologist I have made the difficult decision to step away from TV news. My time in local news has challenged me to grow in ways I never could have imagined… I am proud of the work I have done, the relationships I’ve built, and obstacles I have overcome.”
She went on to thank viewers for their support: “I can’t even begin to put into words how grateful I am for each and every viewer who has invited me into their home and trusted me to provide them with their weather forecast. From the bottom of my heart — thank you.”
Lucero also shared a quote from Maya Angelou that guided her time in the industry: “At the end of the day people won’t remember what you said or did, they will remember how you made them feel.” Outside of the newsroom, Lucero is an avid runner and powerlifter, enjoys hiking, and is known for her love of breakfast foods. She often invited recommendations for books, trails, and local eateries while serving the Washington, D.C. community.
While she has not yet revealed details about her next career move, Lucero told viewers to “stay tuned” as she looks ahead to a new adventure.