Payton Counts

Payton Counts is the morning Stormtracker Meteorologist who joined News-Press NOW in October of 2024. Payton received her bachelor’s degree in Atmospheric Science from the University of Missouri and also received a certificate in sustainability. 

Payton credits her dad for being a big inspiration to her growing up. When Payton got over her fear of thunderstorms, she started to go on the porch with her dad and watch them. 

Payton’s dad also worked for Missouri’s Disaster Medical Team and had the opportunity to assist in the aftermath of many major hurricanes, one of them being Katrina in 2005. He even went to Haiti after a 7.1-magnitude earthquake hit the island in 2010. 

Watching him help others, inspired Payton to want to help people as well. Her overall career goal is to educate others about weather, both its pros and cons. Payton plans to eventually earn her master’s degree and other weather certifications.

Payton also loves to go on walks, shopping, and traveling! Her love for travel is attributed to playing travel softball for 10 years growing up. So far, Payton has many Southern states crossed off, with the exception of Texas and New Mexico. 

Eventually, Payton wants to travel all over the world, with her dream destination being Greece.