WPBF 25 News is the ABC-affiliated television station serving the West Palm Beach and Treasure Coast market. Owned by Hearst Television, it provides local news, First Alert weather coverage, and investigative reporting across Palm Beach and surrounding counties through broadcast, streaming, and mobile platforms.
WPBF, operating on virtual channel 25, has established itself as a cornerstone of the South Florida media landscape. Serving a diverse population that spans from the affluent coastal reaches of Palm Beach to the agricultural communities of Okeechobee, the station balances high-stakes breaking news with hyper-local community reporting. As of 2026, the station continues to adapt to the evolving media environment by integrating traditional over-the-air broadcasting with sophisticated digital streaming services, ensuring residents remain informed whether they are at home or on the move.
The Evolution and History of WPBF Channel 25
WPBF first signed on the air in 1989, making it a relatively late addition to the West Palm Beach television market compared to its long-established competitors, WPTV (NBC) and WPEC (CBS). Despite its later start, the station quickly gained traction by leveraging its ABC affiliation and focusing on modern newsgathering techniques. Originally owned by Phipps Broadcasting, the station was eventually acquired by Hearst Television (then Hearst-Argyle Television) in 1997.
Under Hearst’s stewardship, WPBF underwent significant technological and brand transformations. The move to its current state-of-the-art facility in Palm Beach Gardens marked a turning point, providing the station with the infrastructure needed to produce high-definition news and expand its investigative capabilities. Over the decades, WPBF has positioned itself as a leader in storm tracking and emergency management, a necessity given the geographic vulnerability of the Florida peninsula.
In 2026, the station stands as a multi-platform media entity. While the "Channel 25" moniker remains its primary identifier, its reach extends far beyond the television set. The integration of the Hearst "Very Local" streaming platform and a robust mobile presence has allowed WPBF to maintain its relevance in an era where cord-cutting is common.
How to Watch WPBF 25 News in 2026
Accessing WPBF 25 News is possible through several different avenues, ranging from traditional hardware to modern digital applications. Understanding these options is essential for residents who need reliable access to local information, especially during hurricane season.
Over-the-Air (OTA) Broadcast
For those using a digital antenna, WPBF broadcasts on virtual channel 25. The physical RF (Radio Frequency) channel is 16. Because of the flat topography of South Florida, a high-quality indoor or outdoor antenna can often pick up the signal clearly from Vero Beach down to Boca Raton. The station’s transmitter is located in the Lake Worth area, providing a wide coverage radius.
Cable and Satellite Providers
WPBF is carried by all major cable and satellite providers in the West Palm Beach-Fort Pierce market. This includes:
- Comcast/Xfinity: Typically found on channel 10 or 431 (HD), though this can vary by specific neighborhood.
- AT&T U-verse: Generally located on channel 25 or 1025 (HD).
- DirecTV and Dish Network: Available as part of the local channels package for the West Palm Beach DMA (Designated Market Area).
Streaming and Digital Platforms
In 2026, streaming is the primary method of consumption for many viewers. WPBF offers several ways to watch live news and on-demand segments:
- The Very Local App: Hearst’s proprietary streaming app, available on Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and Apple TV, features live newscasts and original local programming.
- WPBF.com: The station’s official website provides a live stream of all scheduled newscasts.
- WPBF 25 News Mobile App: Available for iOS and Android, this app provides breaking news alerts and live-streaming capabilities.
- Third-Party Services: WPBF is included in the local channel lineups for YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and FuboTV.
| Access Method | Requirements | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Antenna (OTA) | Digital Antenna, No Subscription | Cord-cutters and emergency backup |
| Cable/Satellite | Paid Subscription | Household viewing with DVR needs |
| Very Local App | Smart TV or Streaming Stick | On-demand content and live streaming |
| Mobile App | Smartphone/Tablet, Data/Wi-Fi | Breaking news and weather alerts |
| YouTube TV/Hulu | High-speed Internet, Subscription | Flexible viewing across devices |
Comprehensive News Programming Schedule
WPBF 25 News maintains an extensive schedule of local news programming designed to catch viewers at multiple points throughout the day. While the ABC network provides national programming like Good Morning America and World News Tonight, the local station fills the majority of the day with West Palm Beach-centric content.
Morning News Blocks
The news day begins early with WPBF 25 News Mornings. This block typically runs from 4:30 AM to 7:00 AM, focusing on overnight developments, traffic reports for the I-95 and Florida’s Turnpike corridors, and the First Alert weather forecast. Following Good Morning America, the station often provides local updates during the 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM window.
Midday and Afternoon Coverage
WPBF produces a noon newscast that summarizes the morning’s events and provides an updated look at the afternoon weather. As the afternoon progresses, the station enters its "early fringe" news block, typically starting at 4:00 PM and running through 6:30 PM. This period is crucial for commuters and families, offering a mix of investigative reports, consumer advocacy, and local headlines.
Late Evening News
The flagship newscast occurs at 11:00 PM, following the ABC prime-time lineup. This broadcast serves as the final word on the day's events, providing a deep dive into local government decisions, crime reports, and a look ahead at the next day's weather.
First Alert Weather: Tracking South Florida’s Climate
In the West Palm Beach market, weather is not just a segment of the news; it is a critical public safety service. WPBF 25 brands its weather department as "First Alert Weather," emphasizing early detection and preparedness.
The Impact of Hurricane Season
From June 1st through November 30th, the First Alert Weather team operates with heightened focus. WPBF utilizes advanced radar technology and proprietary modeling to track tropical depressions, storms, and hurricanes. The station’s meteorologists are known for providing calm, data-driven analysis during high-stress weather events. Their coverage includes:
- Spaghetti Model Analysis: Explaining the various paths a storm might take.
- Storm Surge Predictions: Vital for coastal residents in Palm Beach and Martin Counties.
- Evacuation Zone Information: Assisting residents in determining when it is time to seek inland shelter.
Daily Micro-Clates
South Florida is famous for its micro-climates, where it can be pouring rain in Wellington while remaining sunny in West Palm Beach. The First Alert team uses a network of local cameras and weather sensors to provide hyper-local updates. This is particularly important for the local agricultural industry in the western parts of the county, where temperature fluctuations and rainfall totals directly impact operations.
Meet the News Team: Anchors and Reporters
The success of WPBF 25 is largely driven by the familiarity and credibility of its on-air talent. The station employs a mix of veteran anchors who have spent decades in the market and energetic reporters who cover the beats in the Treasure Coast and Palm Beach regions.
- News Anchors: The primary anchors for the evening blocks are responsible for guiding viewers through the day's most important stories. They often participate in community events and moderate local political debates.
- First Alert Meteorologists: Led by a Chief Meteorologist, the weather team consists of several certified experts who rotate through the morning, weekend, and evening shifts.
- Investigative Reporters: WPBF is known for its "Target 25" investigative unit. These journalists focus on government accountability, consumer fraud, and local systemic issues that affect taxpayers.
- Sports Coverage: While national sports are handled by ESPN (via ABC), the local sports desk covers the Miami Dolphins, Miami Heat, and the various spring training activities that take place at the Ballpark of the Palm Beaches and Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium.
Digital Platforms and the Very Local App
As of 2026, the distinction between "television" and "digital" has largely blurred. WPBF 25 has leaned heavily into this transition. The Very Local app is the centerpiece of this strategy. Unlike a traditional website that simply hosts clips, Very Local provides a curated experience featuring:
- Original Local Series: Shows that highlight Florida’s unique culture, food, and travel destinations.
- 24/7 News Stream: A continuous loop of the most recent newscasts and breaking updates.
- On-Demand Archives: The ability to go back and watch specific segments from Target 25 or First Alert Weather.
The station’s social media presence on platforms like Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram also serves as a real-time news ticker. During major events, such as elections or landfalling storms, these platforms become essential for two-way communication between the newsroom and the public.
The Importance of Local Investigative Journalism: Target 25
WPBF’s investigative branch, Target 25, serves a vital role in the West Palm Beach community. Investigative journalism requires significant resources and time—luxuries that are often scarce in the modern 24-hour news cycle. However, WPBF continues to prioritize these long-form reports.
The Target 25 team focuses on:
- Public Spending: Auditing how local tax dollars are spent on infrastructure and public works.
- Health and Safety: Investigating local medical facilities, nursing homes, and environmental concerns like the "toxic algae" blooms that occasionally plague the St. Lucie River and Lake Okeechobee.
- Consumer Protection: Highlighting scams that target the area’s significant elderly population and providing tips for financial security.
By holding local officials and businesses accountable, WPBF 25 News goes beyond simply reporting the news; it acts as a watchdog for the residents of South Florida.
Contacting WPBF 25 and Submitting News Tips
The newsroom at WPBF relies heavily on community input to identify stories that matter. Residents who have a news tip, a consumer complaint, or a story idea can contact the station through several channels.
- Studio Address: 3970 RCA Blvd, Suite 7007, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410.
- Phone Number: The general switchboard handles inquiries regarding programming, while the newsroom has a dedicated line for tips.
- Online Tip Form: The WPBF website features a "Submit a Tip" section where users can upload photos and videos of breaking news events.
- Social Media: Direct messaging the station on social platforms is often the fastest way to get the attention of the digital producers.
Community Involvement and Local Partnerships
WPBF 25 is deeply embedded in the West Palm Beach community through various partnerships and sponsorships. This includes involvement in the South Florida Fair, SunFest, and numerous charity drives. The station frequently hosts "First Alert Weather" seminars at local schools and community centers to educate the public on disaster preparedness. These initiatives help build a level of trust that is essential for a local news organization's longevity.
FAQs About Channel 25 News West Palm Beach
Who owns WPBF 25 News?
WPBF is owned by Hearst Television, a subsidiary of the Hearst Communications media conglomerate. Hearst is one of the largest owners of ABC affiliates in the United States and is known for maintaining high standards for local journalism and technological innovation.
What channel is ABC in West Palm Beach?
For over-the-air viewers, it is Channel 25. On cable and satellite, the channel number varies by provider (typically channel 10 or 25). It is important to check your local provider's channel lineup, as high-definition (HD) versions are often located in the 400 or 1000 range.
How can I watch WPBF 25 without cable?
You can watch WPBF 25 for free using a digital antenna. Additionally, you can stream newscasts for free on the Very Local app, the WPBF mobile app, or through the station’s website at wpbf.com. It is also available on paid streaming services like YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV.
Where are the WPBF 25 studios located?
The studios are located in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, at 3970 RCA Blvd. While the station serves the entire West Palm Beach and Treasure Coast region, its primary operations are based in the northern part of Palm Beach County.
Does WPBF 25 have a dedicated weather app?
Yes, the station offers the WPBF 25 First Alert Weather App. This app provides interactive radar, severe weather alerts based on your specific GPS location, and video forecasts from the station’s meteorologists.
How do I report a news tip to WPBF 25?
The most effective way to report a tip is via the "Contact Us" or "Submit a Tip" page on wpbf.com. You can also call the newsroom directly or reach out through their official social media pages on Facebook or X.
Final Recommendation for Residents
For residents and newcomers to the West Palm Beach and Treasure Coast area, staying connected to WPBF 25 News is highly recommended for both daily information and emergency safety. To ensure you are never without access, download the WPBF 25 News and First Alert Weather apps and consider keeping a basic digital antenna as a backup. This ensures that even during power outages or internet disruptions—common during Florida’s stormy seasons—you have a reliable line to the information necessary to keep your family safe and informed.
