wlwt.com

December 4, 2025

What is WLWT / WLWT.com

  • WLWT is a TV station based in Cincinnati, Ohio. Its web presence, WLWT.com, is the digital portal where the station publishes news, weather, sports, community updates, and local-interest stories. (WLWT)

  • It is owned by Hearst Television and operates as an affiliate of NBC. (Wikipedia)

  • Through WLWT.com (and associated apps or streaming services), the outlet delivers real-time news, weather radar and alerts, traffic updates, sports coverage, and community reporting for the Greater Cincinnati region. (WLWT)

Historical Background

  • WLWT began experimental broadcasts in 1946 (as “W8XCT”) and launched commercial TV service on February 9, 1948 — making it Cincinnati’s first television station and Ohio’s second overall. (Wikipedia)

  • Originally, WLWT carried content from all major early networks — NBC, ABC, CBS, and DuMont — but over time it settled as a primary NBC affiliate. (Wikipedia)

  • Over the decades the station changed ownership: from its original founder (the Crosley Broadcasting Corporation) to later corporate owners including Hearst. (Wikipedia)

  • Since its founding, WLWT has played a persistent role in local broadcasting — surviving industry shifts, network changes, and evolving media consumption habits. As of 2023, it marked 75 years of service. (WLWT)

What WLWT Covers / Offers

Through its broadcast and digital channel, WLWT offers:

  • Local news & breaking alerts — crime, accidents, civic issues, community stories. (WLWT)

  • Weather forecasts & radar/tracking — timely weather updates, storm alerts, local conditions. (WLWT)

  • Sports coverage — local teams, major sports events, game coverage, analysis. (Wikipedia)

  • National and regional news through partnerships and networks, when appropriate. (WLWT)

  • Digital conveniences — on-demand video segments, apps for smartphones, social media presence for quick updates. (WLWT)

So if you’re in the Cincinnati area, WLWT aims to serve as a one-stop source for staying informed on what’s happening around town — from breaking news to weather and sports.

Significance & Role

  • WLWT has deep roots locally and historically: being the first TV station in Cincinnati gave it early influence and familiarity among viewers. (Wikipedia)

  • Its longevity and adaptability show that it’s managed to survive major changes in media — shifting from early-day multi-network broadcasting to a modern digital-first news organization.

  • Through WLWT.com and its digital platforms, the station expands its reach beyond just TV viewers, offering news access anytime and anywhere.

Key Takeaways

  • WLWT/WLWT.com = a long-established local news outlet based in Cincinnati, offering news, weather, sports, and community coverage.

  • Operated by Hearst Television, and affiliated with NBC.

  • First broadcast in 1948 — one of the pioneers in Ohio television.

  • Continues to evolve: TV + digital publishing + streaming + social media, to serve modern audiences.

  • Good resource for anyone wanting a regular pulse on local developments in Greater Cincinnati.


FAQ

Q: Is WLWT only a TV station or also a news website?
A: Both. WLWT is fundamentally a TV station, but WLWT.com is its online news portal — publishing articles, videos, weather updates, and more.

Q: Does WLWT still broadcast on traditional TV, or is it digital-only?
A: It continues broadcasting on TV (as “WLWT 5-1 NBC”, plus its additional digital sub-channels like MeTV and others), while also offering content online via WLWT.com and streaming platforms. (WLWT)

Q: What kind of audience does WLWT serve?
A: Residents of the Greater Cincinnati area — people interested in local news, weather forecasts, sports (especially local teams), community issues, and regional events.

Q: How long has WLWT been around?
A: Since 1948 — it celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2023. (WLWT)

Q: Who owns WLWT?
A: It is owned by Hearst Television. (Wikipedia)