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WACH FOX: Local News, Weather, and Programming in Columbia

By Constance Obi · Culture & Recreation Writer

What WACH FOX broadcasts and where to find it

WACH FOX is the ABC affiliate serving the Midlands region of South Carolina, broadcasting from Columbia on channel 57. The station airs national ABC programming alongside local news, weather forecasts, and community coverage. You can watch WACH FOX over the air with an antenna, through cable and satellite providers, or by streaming through the station's website and mobile app.

The station's call letters—WACH—have been part of Columbia's media landscape since 1953. Today, WACH FOX produces multiple daily newscasts, including morning, evening, and late-night editions. The station covers stories across Richland, Lexington, Sumter, and surrounding counties, with reporters and anchors based in the Columbia newsroom.

Key Takeaways

  • WACH FOX broadcasts on channel 57 in Columbia and carries ABC network programming plus local news and weather.
  • The station produces newscasts throughout the day, with morning editions starting early and evening broadcasts at 5, 6, and 11 p.m.
  • You can watch live through cable and satellite providers, over the air with an antenna, or through the WACH FOX website and app.
  • WACH FOX covers local events, weather emergencies, and community stories across the Midlands region.

Local news and weather coverage

WACH FOX's news operation focuses on stories that affect daily life in the Midlands. The station covers city council meetings, school board decisions, traffic incidents, and severe weather. During hurricane season and winter storms, WACH FOX provides continuous weather updates and emergency information. The station's meteorologists track conditions and issue alerts when severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, or winter weather threaten the region.

Weather forecasts appear in every newscast and are updated throughout the day on the station's website and mobile app. WACH FOX also maintains a live weather radar and hourly forecast updates. During significant weather events, the station may interrupt regular programming to provide real-time coverage and safety information.

How to watch WACH FOX

If you have a cable or satellite subscription—through providers like Comcast, Charter, DIRECTV, or Dish—WACH FOX appears in your channel lineup. Check your provider's guide or search for "WACH" to find the exact channel number in your area, as it may differ from channel 57 depending on your service.

Over-the-air viewing requires a digital antenna. WACH FOX broadcasts on VHF channel 57, so an indoor or outdoor antenna positioned toward Columbia will pick up the signal. The quality and range depend on your antenna type and distance from the transmitter. If you live in or near Columbia, a basic indoor antenna often works; if you are farther out, an outdoor antenna may be necessary.

To stream WACH FOX, visit the station's website or download the WACH FOX mobile app, available on iOS and Android. The app offers live streaming of newscasts, on-demand video clips, weather radar, and push notifications for breaking news and severe weather alerts. You may need to sign in with your cable or satellite provider credentials to access full streaming features.

Newscast times and programming schedule

WACH FOX produces newscasts at the following times:

  • Morning: 5 a.m., 6 a.m., and 7 a.m.
  • Midday: 12 p.m.
  • Evening: 5 p.m., 6 p.m., and 11 p.m.

Outside of news hours, WACH FOX airs ABC network programming, including Good Morning America, daytime talk shows, game shows, primetime dramas and comedies, and World News Tonight. The station also carries ABC's sports programming, including select NFL games, college football, and other events. Weekend mornings feature children's programming and nature documentaries.

Special events and breaking news may alter the regular schedule. During severe weather, election coverage, or major news events, WACH FOX may preempt scheduled programming to provide continuous coverage.

Contacting WACH FOX and submitting news tips

To reach WACH FOX, call the newsroom at (803) 799-1010 or visit the station's website to find email addresses for specific departments. The station accepts news tips, story ideas, and viewer photos through its website and social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

WACH FOX also maintains a community calendar where you can submit upcoming events for potential coverage. The station encourages viewers to report breaking news, accidents, or weather conditions by calling the newsroom or using the mobile app's tip feature.

WACH FOX's role in the Midlands community

Beyond daily news and weather, WACH FOX participates in community events and public service initiatives. The station sponsors or covers local festivals, charity fundraisers, and school events throughout the region. WACH FOX anchors and reporters often appear at community gatherings, health fairs, and educational events.

The station also produces special reports on topics affecting the Midlands, such as education, economic development, and public safety. These investigations and feature stories go deeper than daily news coverage, exploring issues that shape the region's future.

Frequently Asked Questions

What channel is WACH FOX on?

WACH FOX broadcasts on channel 57 in Columbia. If you use cable or satellite, the channel number may differ depending on your provider's lineup. Check your provider's channel guide or search for "WACH" to locate it.

Can I watch WACH FOX without cable?

Yes. You can watch over the air with a digital antenna tuned to channel 57, or stream through the WACH FOX website and mobile app. Streaming may require you to sign in with your cable or satellite provider credentials, depending on the content.

How do I get WACH FOX weather alerts on my phone?

Download the WACH FOX mobile app and enable push notifications in the app settings. The app will send alerts for severe weather warnings, watches, and other breaking news affecting the Midlands.

Does WACH FOX cover areas outside Columbia?

WACH FOX's coverage area includes Richland, Lexington, Sumter, and surrounding counties in the Midlands region. The station reports on stories across this area, though the primary focus is Columbia and immediate suburbs.

How can I submit a news tip to WACH FOX?

Call the newsroom at (803) 799-1010, visit the station's website to email a specific reporter or department, or use the tip feature in the WACH FOX mobile app. You can also reach the station through its social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.