Belinda Jensen KARE 11 Chief Meteorologist Profile

As a veteran biographer with over two decades in the trenches of media analysis, I have seen many broadcasters come and go. Yet, few maintain the warmth and scientific authority of Belinda Jensen.

In an era of fleeting digital fame, Jensen has remained a steady North Star for Minnesota viewers. Whether she is standing in a sub-zero blizzard outside the KARE 11 studios or simplifying complex weather patterns for a classroom of second graders, her impact is undeniable. This isn’t just a career; it’s a 30-year masterclass in reliability.

Belinda Jensen: The Forecast of a Lifetime

Born in St. Paul and raised in the scenic river town of Prescott, Wisconsin, Belinda Jensen didn’t always plan on being the “Queen of the Cold.” Growing up as one of five siblings, she initially dreamed of becoming a veterinarian or a social studies teacher.

However, a high school physics teacher noticed her analytical mind and nudged her toward meteorology. By the 10th grade, she was already interviewing legendary forecaster Paul Douglas for a term paper—little did she know she would one day be his colleague and eventual successor.

Quick Stats: Belinda Jensen at a Glance

Career Timeline: From Salt Lake to the Twin Cities

Belinda’s path to the top wasn’t a straight line. She is the first in her family to graduate from a four-year college, earning her Bachelor of Science in Atmospheric Science from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

• The Utah Years: She moved to the University of Utah for graduate work. While there, she cold-called a local ABC affiliate (KTVX) and convinced them she was the expert they needed. She spent years refining her craft at the National Weather Service before the Midwest called her home.

• The KARE 11 Era: In September 1993, Belinda joined KARE 11 as a weekend meteorologist.

• Chief Status: In December 2005, she made history by becoming the Chief Meteorologist, a role she has held for nearly two decades.

“Weather is never boring,” Belinda often says. “The creativity that goes along with it is what makes it fun every single day.”

Is Belinda Jensen Retiring in 2026?

This is the question on every Minnesotan’s mind. After 32 years at KARE 11, the rumors of retirement have intensified. In early 2025, Belinda shared that she is indeed planning for her retirement.

While she hasn’t set a final “sign-off” date for 2026 yet, she has been vocal about her next chapter. She plans to:

1. Promote STEM Education: Encouraging young girls to enter science.

2. Expand “Bel the Weather Girl”: Her successful children’s book series.

3. Travel: Specifically spending more time with her family and exploring new horizons beyond the weather wall.

Personal Life: Husband David Hopkins and Family

Fans often ask, “Is Belinda Jensen still married?” The answer is a resounding yes. Belinda has been happily married to her husband, David Hopkins, for many years. The couple met while Belinda was working in Utah, and David has been her steady support system throughout her high-profile career.

Together, they have two children who are now young adults:

• Tanner (Son): Born in early 2003.

• Tori (Daughter): Born in July 2007.

The family resides in Edina, Minnesota, along with their beloved Bernese Mountain Dogs. Despite her fame, Belinda prioritizes a “normal” life, often seen biking with her son or playing tennis on her days off.

The “Belinda Jensen Accident” and Health Rumors

In the world of SEO-driven rumors, “Belinda Jensen accident” often trends. Fortunately, there has been no major recent accident involving Belinda. Most searches likely stem from viewers noticing her absence during vacations or minor health bouts like the flu.

Regarding the buzz around how Belinda Jensen lost weight, there is no “secret pill” or dramatic surgery. Belinda has always been active—an avid skier, scuba diver, and tennis player. While fans noticed a leaner physique in 2021-2022, she attributes her health to a high-activity lifestyle and managing Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) with Vitamin D and light therapy—a struggle she shares openly with her fellow Minnesotans.

Clearing the Confusion: Are Belinda and Bobby Jensen Related?

It’s the most common question in the Twin Cities: Are Belinda Jensen and Bobby Jensen related? Despite their 25-year partnership on the “Grow with KARE” segment, the answer is no. They are close friends and professional partners, but they share a last name by coincidence only. Their chemistry is so natural that many assume they are siblings or cousins, but they are simply “TV family.”

Net Worth and Salary in 2026

As a Chief Meteorologist in a top-15 media market with over 30 years of seniority, Belinda Jensen’s salary is estimated to be between $150,000 and $250,000 per year.

Her net worth in 2026 is estimated at $2 million to $4 million. This wealth isn’t just from her KARE 11 salary; it includes:

• Book Royalties: From her “Bel the Weather Girl” series.

• Speaking Engagements: Belinda is a high-demand keynote speaker for STEM and environmental events.

• Real Estate: Her long-term residence in the affluent Edina area.

Legacy: Beyond the Forecast

Belinda Jensen’s legacy won’t just be the thousands of forecasts she’s delivered. It will be her contribution to science literacy. By authoring six children’s books, she has helped thousands of kids overcome “weather anxiety.”

She transformed the “scary” thunder into a “party for clouds,” proving that education is the best antidote to fear.

Belinda’s Inner Circle: The Colleagues

• Bobby Jensen: The gardening guru and “non-brother.”

• Randy Shaver: Longtime co-anchor and friend.

• Paul Douglas: The mentor who started it all.

Summary Table: The Future of Belinda Jensen

What is your favorite Belinda Jensen memory? Share your stories in the comments below!

Sources & Verifiable Links

1. KARE 11 Official Bio – Belinda Jensen

2. The Catholic Spirit: “Belinda Jensen nears retirement, leans on faith” (2025)

3. Star Tribune: “25 Years of Predicting the Weather” Interview

4. Bel the Weather Girl Official Website

5. American Meteorological Society (AMS) Member Directory