Introduction
Welcome to WDAM News, your most reliable source for comprehensive coverage of the Pine Belt region and beyond. For decades, WDAM has delivered accurate, timely, and impactful journalism—keeping Mississippi communities informed on breaking news, weather alerts, political developments, and human-interest stories that matter most. Whether it’s a local high school football championship, a city council decision affecting your neighborhood, or severe weather threatening the Gulf Coast, our team of dedicated reporters brings you in-depth coverage with integrity and professionalism. Stay connected with WDAM News on-air, online, and on-the-go for the latest updates that keep you prepared and empowered.
Headlines & Detailed Sections
1. Breaking News: Real-Time Updates on Critical Events
When emergencies unfold across the Pine Belt, WDAM News is the first to deliver verified information to keep residents safe and informed. Our breaking news team has covered major incidents like industrial accidents in Hattiesburg, highway closures due to severe weather, and law enforcement operations across Lamar, Forrest, and Jones counties. With a network of trusted sources, including emergency responders and local officials, we provide minute-by-minute updates during crises while ensuring facts are confirmed before dissemination. A recent example includes our live coverage of a chemical spill evacuation in Laurel, where our reporters relayed shelter locations and safety instructions to thousands of affected viewers.
2. Investigative Reports: Holding Power Accountable
WDAM’s investigative unit goes beyond headlines to uncover systemic issues impacting Mississippi residents. Our award-winning series, such as “Healthcare Deserts in Rural Mississippi,” exposed the lack of emergency medical services in Perry County, prompting state lawmakers to allocate funding for new clinics. Another ongoing investigation tracks school funding discrepancies, revealing how budget shortfalls in underprivileged districts affect classroom resources. These reports combine data analysis, public records requests, and interviews with whistleblowers to drive transparency and change.
3. Weather Authority: Protecting the Pine Belt from Severe Threats
As the most trusted weather team in the region, WDAM’s First Alert Weather provides life-saving forecasts during hurricane season, tornado outbreaks, and winter storms. Our meteorologists utilize advanced radar technology and storm-chasing units to track severe weather in real time. A recent example includes our continuous coverage of Hurricane Ida’s impact on the Mississippi Coast, where our team delivered evacuation routes, flood zone maps, and recovery resources for weeks after landfall. Beyond emergencies, we offer agricultural forecasts for local farmers and pollen reports for allergy sufferers, ensuring weather intelligence serves every aspect of community life.
4. Politics & Policy: Elections, Legislation, and Community Impact
From the Mississippi State Capitol to county courthouses, WDAM’s political team demystifies complex policies and elections. Our coverage of the 2023 gubernatorial race included candidate debates, campaign finance investigations, and voter guides tailored to Pine Belt districts. We also highlight hyperlocal issues, such as debates over school board policies or infrastructure projects like the Hattiesburg I-59 expansion. By interviewing lawmakers and grassroots organizers, we provide balanced reporting that helps voters make informed decisions.
5. Sports Zone: Celebrating Pine Belt Athletes
Friday night lights, Southern Miss Golden Eagles, and youth sports achievements are at the heart of WDAM’s Sports Zone. Our team covers everything from Oak Grove High School’s championship runs to the rise of local athletes in collegiate and professional leagues. Feature stories, like a profile on a Petal teen overcoming adversity to earn a basketball scholarship, highlight the human stories behind the scores. We also analyze regional sports economics, such as how minor league baseball boosts Hattiesburg’s tourism.
6. Community Spotlight: Uplifting Local Voices
WDAM shines a light on everyday heroes and cultural traditions that define the Pine Belt. Our “Heroes Among Us” series has featured volunteer firefighters, teachers innovating in underfunded schools, and veterans organizing food drives. Seasonal coverage includes festivals like the Pine Belt State Fair, Mardi Gras parades in the Coast, and Black History Month tributes to Mississippi’s civil rights leaders. These stories foster pride and connectivity across diverse communities.
Conclusion
At WDAM News, our mission is to serve as your eyes, ears, and advocate for the Pine Belt. Through accurate reporting, investigative rigor, and a deep commitment to community, we strive to inform, protect, and inspire. Download the WDAM News app for customizable alerts, follow us on social media, and join us nightly at 6 and 10 for the stories that shape your world. Thank you for trusting WDAM—where news isn’t just reported; it’s lived.
