Here is the latest news from around the Roanoke Valley and Commonwealth of Virginia.

Here is the latest news from around the Roanoke Valley and the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Today on WFIR News Express:

Get the day’s top stories and expert analysis in under 15 minutes. Listen now on your favorite podcast platform!

Today on WFIR News Express, we bring you the latest:

Stay informed with WFIR News as we cover the stories that impact our community and beyond.

In today’s WFIR News Express: Lawmakers gather in Richmond for the General Assembly session, tackling education funding, renewable energy, and a proposal to repeal Virginia's outdated same-sex marriage ban. A school drug overdose policy mandated by Governor Glenn Youngkin sparks privacy concerns among educators and parents after a fentanyl exposure case. The Virginia Insurance Marketplace reminds residents to enroll in health plans before the open enrollment deadline. Roanoke City Council’s youngest-ever member, Phazhon Nash, discusses housing, gun violence, and his new role on the Gun Violence Prevention Commission. Virginia Tech alumni share firsthand accounts of California wildfires' devastation. Plus, local officials remind pet owners to provide adequate shelter as freezing temperatures set in. Stay informed with your quick and comprehensive local news update!

Today's WFIR News Express podcast covers a range of stories:

Crime news includes a Roanoke County homicide investigation, a Franklin County man charged with child sex crimes, and the launch of "Operation Silence Shattered," a statewide anti-human trafficking campaign.

Richmond continues to address its water crisis, with progress on restoring service and lifting the boil water advisory. A poll shows a tight race between Abigail Spanberger and Winsome Earle-Sears in the 2025 Virginia governor's race.

Virginia celebrates the 250th anniversary of the Fincastle Resolutions, a critical step toward independence, with events this weekend. In local business, Roanoke’s "Wag 'N Wash" hosts its grand opening, providing pet grooming and washing services.

We’ll also have a detailed weather forecast as snow showers approach this afternoon. Stay tuned for more updates!

As Winter Storm Cora approaches, Governor Glenn Youngkin issues a stark warning to Virginians—could this storm rival the last? Find out how the state is preparing and what you should do now.

Looking to lower your power bills without spending extra cash? We’ve got free tips to keep the heat in and the cold out this winter.

A shocking child abuse investigation in Bedford County leads to multiple charges against a daycare worker. How many children are affected, and what’s next in the case?

Senator Tim Kaine is ready to relive one of the toughest battles of his career—will the Affordable Care Act face new threats?

Meanwhile, Congressman Morgan Griffith calls for a “full truth” about the January 6th Capitol riot, but what does that mean for the ongoing debate?

Virginia’s governor's race is heating up as campaign finance reports reveal major donations—what do they signal for the November showdown between Winsome Sears and Abigail Spanberger?

Roanoke City Council seeks someone to fill a critical vacancy—are you ready to step up? Applications are open now.

Finally, a sobering hunger report shows food insecurity in Virginia has surged. Who’s most affected, and what’s being done to help?

Catch all these stories and more on today’s WFIR News Express Podcast!

In today’s episode, we cover the arrest of a 16-year-old in Appomattox County after a chilling TikTok threat against students. Hear how quick action from authorities helped avert potential tragedy.

Winter weather has thrown a wrench into local routines—Roanoke City Public Schools are closed, icy roads persist, and cleanup crews race against the clock. We’ll bring you updates straight from city officials.

The Virginia General Assembly is off to a delayed start as a water crisis shuts down operations in Richmond. How will this impact the legislative agenda, including school funding and tax relief? Delegates and senators weigh in.

A new face joins the fight against gun violence in Roanoke—Councilman Phazon Nash steps up with science-backed strategies. What does his vision mean for the city?

Plus, a major operation targeting sex traffickers in Campbell County leads to multiple arrests, and the Washington Commanders might just be heading back to D.C. What’s next for the RFK Stadium site?

Finally, as temperatures plummet, learn why space heater safety could save lives this winter.

Tune in for all these stories and more on the WFIR News Express Podcast!

Here is the latest news from across the Roanoke Valley and Commonwealth of Virginia.