Breaking news refers to significant, time-sensitive events that require immediate reporting. Such events often disrupt normal programming or interrupt regular newscasts to provide immediate updates, reflecting the urgency of the situation. They may include natural disasters, accidents, severe weather events or major political or social events. Breaking news reports may also be based on sources such as eyewitness accounts or public reactions, and may involve ongoing developments.
While breaking news stories can be some of the most interesting to cover, they can also be some of the hardest. In the rush to be first, it’s easy for erroneous information to spread. In fact, even reputable media outlets can get things wrong in the heat of the moment. That’s why it’s important to verify facts and avoid speculation to maintain accuracy.
When a story is breaking, the team should be prepared to immediately notify viewers of the event with appropriate graphics and a special music cue that indicates an interruption in regular programming. A countdown sequence is often used to allow local affiliates to switch to a network feed, and a breaking news banner will appear across the bottom of the screen.
It’s important to remind the team that they should not discuss the names of dead or injured victims unless and until loved ones have been notified. In addition, journalists should always be sure to check with authorities before reporting a witness’s statement as a fact without confirmation. This is particularly important if the statement could be misinterpreted as an attempt to cause further harm or panic.