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25 Facts About WGRZ

Blake Jessen

Written by Blake Jessen

Published: 03 Jan 2026

Expert Verified Editorial Guidelines
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Source: Newscaststudio.com

WGRZ, a television station based in Buffalo, New York, has been a staple in local broadcasting for decades. Ever wondered what makes this station tick? WGRZ is more than just a news outlet; it’s a part of the community. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a trusted news source, this station has a rich history. Did you know WGRZ is an affiliate of NBC? That means it brings you some of the best national programming while keeping you updated on local events. Whether you’re interested in its award-winning journalism, community involvement, or technological advancements, there’s a lot to learn. Ready to dive into 25 fascinating facts about WGRZ? Let’s get started!

Table of Contents
01WGRZ: A Buffalo Staple
02Notable Programs and Personalities
03Community Involvement
04Technological Advancements
05Awards and Recognition
06Weather Coverage
07Sports Coverage
08Future Plans
09Final Thoughts on WGRZ

WGRZ: A Buffalo Staple

WGRZ, a television station in Buffalo, New York, has been a significant part of the community for decades. Known for its news coverage, weather updates, and local programming, WGRZ has a rich history and many interesting facets.

  1. WGRZ is an NBC Affiliate: WGRZ is affiliated with the National Broadcasting Company (NBC), providing viewers with popular NBC shows, sports events, and news programs.

  2. Founded in 1954: The station first went on air on August 14, 1954, and has been serving the Buffalo area ever since.

  3. Owned by Tegna Inc.: Tegna Inc., a media company that owns numerous television stations across the United States, owns WGRZ.

  4. Call Sign Meaning: The call sign WGRZ stands for "We're Great Radio and Television," reflecting its origins in both radio and TV broadcasting.

Notable Programs and Personalities

WGRZ has produced many notable programs and has been home to several well-known personalities over the years.

  1. "Daybreak" Morning Show: "Daybreak" is WGRZ's popular morning show, providing viewers with news, weather, and traffic updates to start their day.

  2. "Most Buffalo": This unique program focuses on the positive aspects of life in Buffalo, highlighting local stories and events.

  3. Kevin O'Connell: A beloved meteorologist, Kevin O'Connell has been a staple on WGRZ for many years, providing accurate weather forecasts and engaging with the community.

  4. Scott Levin: Scott Levin, a prominent news anchor, has been delivering the news to Buffalo residents for over two decades.

Community Involvement

WGRZ is deeply involved in the Buffalo community, supporting various initiatives and events.

  1. "2 On Your Side": This consumer advocacy segment helps viewers with issues they face, offering solutions and holding businesses accountable.

  2. "2 The Outdoors": This segment encourages viewers to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of Western New York.

  3. "WGRZ Weather Kids": This program allows local children to learn about weather forecasting and even appear on TV to present the weather.

  4. Annual Food Drive: WGRZ organizes an annual food drive to support local food banks and help those in need.

Technological Advancements

WGRZ has embraced technology to enhance its broadcasting capabilities and viewer experience.

  1. High-Definition Broadcasting: WGRZ transitioned to high-definition broadcasting in 2008, providing viewers with clearer and more vibrant images.

  2. Mobile App: The WGRZ mobile app offers news updates, weather forecasts, and live streaming of broadcasts, making it easy for viewers to stay informed on the go.

  3. Social Media Presence: WGRZ actively engages with viewers on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, sharing news updates and interacting with the community.

Awards and Recognition

WGRZ's commitment to quality journalism and community service has earned it numerous awards and accolades.

  1. Emmy Awards: The station has won multiple Emmy Awards for its news coverage and special programming.

  2. Edward R. Murrow Awards: WGRZ has received several Edward R. Murrow Awards, which recognize outstanding achievements in electronic journalism.

  3. Associated Press Awards: The station has been honored with Associated Press Awards for excellence in news reporting and production.

Weather Coverage

Weather is a crucial aspect of WGRZ's programming, with a dedicated team of meteorologists providing accurate forecasts.

  1. Storm Team 2: The Storm Team 2 weather team uses advanced technology to provide precise weather forecasts and severe weather alerts.

  2. Weather Radar: WGRZ's state-of-the-art weather radar system helps meteorologists track storms and provide timely updates to viewers.

  3. Weather Cameras: The station has weather cameras placed in various locations around Buffalo, offering live views of current weather conditions.

Sports Coverage

WGRZ covers local and national sports, keeping viewers updated on their favorite teams and athletes.

  1. Buffalo Bills Coverage: The station provides extensive coverage of the Buffalo Bills, including game highlights, player interviews, and analysis.

  2. Buffalo Sabres Coverage: WGRZ also covers the Buffalo Sabres, offering fans in-depth reports on games, player performances, and team news.

  3. High School Sports: The station highlights local high school sports, showcasing the talents and achievements of young athletes in the community.

Future Plans

WGRZ continues to evolve and adapt to the changing media landscape, with plans to enhance its programming and viewer experience.

  1. Digital Expansion: The station is expanding its digital presence, offering more content online and through its mobile app to reach a broader audience.

Final Thoughts on WGRZ

WGRZ has a rich history and a strong presence in Buffalo, New York. From its early days as a radio station to becoming a trusted TV news source, WGRZ has evolved with the times. Its commitment to delivering accurate news, weather updates, and community stories has made it a staple in many households. The station's dedication to innovation, like embracing digital platforms, ensures it stays relevant. WGRZ's team of experienced journalists and meteorologists work tirelessly to keep viewers informed. Whether it's breaking news or heartwarming local stories, WGRZ continues to be a reliable source of information. As media landscapes change, WGRZ remains a constant, adapting while maintaining its core values. For anyone in the Buffalo area, tuning into WGRZ means staying connected to the community and the world.

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