Zach Rael

About

Zach Rael is a reporter/anchor currently working for KOCO-TV in Oklahoma City, OK. A first-generation college student, Rael graduated from New Mexico State University in 2014 with a bachelor’s degree in Journalism & Mass Communications and an additional bachelor’s in Government. NMSU honored Rael with the designation of Crimson Scholar for his high academic achievements and maintaining excellent grades. During his time in Oklahoma, Rael has covered a wide range of topics. Over the past year, he has contributed to the station’s COVID-19 coverage. In the overnight hours of civil unrest in Oklahoma City following the death of George Floyd, Rael was on the ground to bring viewers the fallout of protests, which later turned destructive in the downtown area. Holding those in power accountable and helping those in need are some of Rael’s favorite aspects of being a broadcast journalist. Working in one of the most active weather markets in the United States has prepared Rael to cover severe weather situations and the destruction left in the wake of the storms. Rael was the first reporter on the scene of the target zone caused by a deadly tornado outbreak in Elk City, Oklahoma in 2017. The tornado left one dead, dozens displaced and caused millions of dollars in damage. He has not only worked as a reporter but also as a storm chaser. He’s covered major floods, historic ice storms, snow, and wildfires. Outside of work he enjoys spending time outdoors with his wife, friends, and two rescue dogs, Rocko and Murphy. Skiing has become a passion for Rael and you can find him hitting the slopes any chance he gets during the winter months. Growing up in northern New Mexico near the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, his parents taught him how to ski at 4-years-old. Rael also enjoys playing golf and taking his dogs to the dog park. He is also an avid concert and moviegoer. Rael has also been a tennis instructor, teaching underserved children.