Charleston–Huntington, West Virginia Media Landscape Overview

This Kanawha–Ohio River DMA blends state government, healthcare, education, and logistics. Broadcasters emphasize severe weather, flooding, transportation, and public services for OTA, cable, and CTV audiences.

Media Ownership & Regulation

Network affiliates and subchannels operate with West Virginia Public Broadcasting and public radio; EAS partners coordinate for flash floods, winter storms, and chemical safety alerts.

FCC translators extend valley coverage; universities and civic groups collaborate on public‑service and educational programming.

Digital Transformation & Connectivity

Simulcasts on apps/YouTube and FAST extend reach; push alerts and newsletters support commuters and schools.

Broadband projects expand access in rural areas; libraries and schools bolster media literacy and device lending.

Leading Television Channels

• ABC affiliate: Local news, weather, investigations.
• CBS affiliate: Breaking news and sports.
• NBC affiliate: Consumer reporting and alerts.
• FOX affiliate: NFL, entertainment, local updates.
• West Virginia PBS: Educational/cultural programming.
• The CW/MyNetworkTV: Syndicated entertainment and features.
• Spanish‑language (regional): News and variety.
• Ion/MeTV (subs): Procedurals/classic TV.
• Weather subchannels: Continuous forecasts and radar.
• Local access: Public meetings and community programs.

Major Radio Broadcasting Networks

• NPR member stations: News/talk and statewide reporting.
• All‑news/Traffic/Weather: Commute and alerts.
• Country: Local hosts and promotions.
• Top 40/CHR: Contemporary hits.
• Adult Contemporary: Workplace playlists.
• Classic Rock: Catalog programming.
• Sports: Talk and play‑by‑play.
• Faith/Inspirational: Religious programming.
• Public safety/NOAA: Weather and emergency bulletins.

Media Consumption Patterns & Audience Behavior

Digital Engagement

CTV and social video extend reach beyond prime; push alerts support river levels, road closures, and school schedules.

Agencies, health systems, and universities use Facebook/Instagram/YouTube for advisories and events.

Traditional Habits

OTA TV and radio remain essential for weather and local sports; drive‑time radio retains commuters.

Public media and weeklies sustain hyperlocal reporting across cities and towns.

Market Metrics & Industry Statistics

Media Trust & Consumer Preferences

Trust Landscape

Meteorology, investigative units, and public media explainers rate highly; clear, accessible updates broaden reach.

Transparency and community engagement strengthen trust during floods and storms.

Audience Preferences

Weather, high school/college sports, community services, and lifestyle perform well; short‑form advisories drive engagement.

Streaming replays and newsletters complement linear schedules.

Sources

• https://www.wvpublic.org/
• https://www.nielsen.com/us/en/insights/report/2025/the-gauge-may-2025/
• https://www.fcc.gov/media/television/broadcast-ownership