The term breaking news refers to urgent and developing stories that capture the public’s attention. These events may include natural disasters, major accidents or political events that demand immediate reporting. The nature of breaking news often forces journalists to prioritize speed over accuracy, which can lead to incomplete or inaccurate reports. As the story develops, however, reporters are usually able to update their articles as new information becomes available.
Breaking news is typically reported by television and radio stations. The event will trigger an announcement on the air that informs viewers of the importance of the event, and will pause current programming until more information is available. This process is known as a cut-in. Oftentimes, the event will have to be highly significant in order for it to interrupt regular programming, but less important events are sometimes covered under a “Newsflash” or “Special report” banner.
When writing a breaking news article, it is critical to include all the essential details of the event—who, what, when, where, why and how. The article should also provide context and background about the event, including how it affects the community or nation at large. Additionally, the article should avoid using opinionated language or making assumptions. In the case of a breaking news event, it is best to confirm eyewitness accounts with authorities rather than relying on unreliable sources. For example, in the wake of the Giffords shooting NPR aired a live call from a panicked witness who claimed she had seen Giffords dead at the scene; this was erroneous.