Hi, Western Washington! I am Ashley Ruiz and I am so happy to call the Pacific Northwest my new forever home! I was born and raised in the suburbs of New Orleans. I am proud to say that I am a first generation Cuban American. I've spent nearly the last decade working in the Deep South and on the Gulf Coast.
I have my Bachelor of Science in meteorology/geoscience from Mississippi State University, which prepared me for all types of wild weather.
My first job was in Columbus, Mississippi, where I covered numerous tornado outbreaks. My passion for tropical meteorology sent me down to the Gulf Coast to Pensacola, Florida where I gained experience tracking tropical systems, severe weather and even winter weather. After three years in Pensacola, I moved back to Louisiana, but this time to Baton Rouge. After a year and a half in Baton Rouge, I was promoted to chief meteorologist. Representation is so important to me and I was honored to be the first woman (and Latina) chief meteorologist in Baton Rouge. While in Baton Rouge, I covered hurricanes, severe weather, floods, snow, ice, droughts and even wildfires, which helped me prepare for my next journey - the Pacific Northwest! I love a challenge and I am looking forward to the challenges that western Washington weather has to offer!
I moved to Washington in December 2023 with my husband and two dachshunds. We are so excited to explore the most beautiful region in the country! Outside of forecasting and exploring our beautiful state, I enjoy music, yoga and animals. I am always looking for dog-friendly places or trails to check out. If you have any recommendations, please send them my way! You can reach me at aruiz@king5.com!
