Why is wjz off the air

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Last updated: April 8, 2026

Quick Answer: WJZ-TV (channel 13) is not off the air; it remains an active CBS affiliate in Baltimore, Maryland, owned by the CBS News and Stations group. The station has been broadcasting continuously since its launch on November 2, 1948, making it one of the oldest television stations in the United States. In recent years, WJZ has undergone digital transitions, including moving from channel 13 to channel 12 for its digital signal in 2009, but it has never ceased operations.

Key Facts

WJZ-TV launched on November 2, 1948, as one of the first TV stations in Baltimore
The station is owned by CBS News and Stations, a division of Paramount Global
WJZ moved its digital signal from channel 13 to channel 12 in 2009 during the digital TV transition
The station's call letters were originally assigned to a New York radio station in 1921
WJZ has been a CBS affiliate since 1995, previously affiliated with ABC from 1948 to 1994

Overview

WJZ-TV is a television station licensed to Baltimore, Maryland, broadcasting on digital channel 12 as a CBS affiliate. Owned by the CBS News and Stations group, it serves the Baltimore metropolitan area with news, entertainment, and sports programming. The station's history dates to its launch on November 2, 1948, by the Westinghouse Electric Corporation, making it one of the earliest television stations in the Mid-Atlantic region. Initially an ABC affiliate, WJZ switched to CBS in 1995 after Westinghouse acquired CBS, a move that consolidated the station's network alignment. Over the decades, WJZ has maintained a strong local presence, with notable programming including its morning show "WJZ Morning News" and coverage of Baltimore Orioles games. The station's studios are located on Television Hill in Baltimore, and it transmits from a tower in Randallstown, Maryland.

How It Works

WJZ-TV operates as a traditional broadcast television station, transmitting over-the-air signals that can be received by antennas within its coverage area, which includes Baltimore and parts of central Maryland. The station broadcasts in high definition using the ATSC 1.0 standard, with plans to adopt ATSC 3.0 for next-generation TV features. Its programming is a mix of CBS network shows, syndicated content, and locally produced news broadcasts. WJZ produces over 30 hours of local news weekly, including morning, midday, evening, and late-night newscasts. The station also streams content online through its website and mobile apps, allowing viewers to access live broadcasts and on-demand videos. Technical operations involve a master control room that manages program scheduling, commercial insertion, and signal transmission to the broadcast tower.

Why It Matters

WJZ-TV plays a crucial role in Baltimore's media landscape, providing local news, weather, and emergency information to over 2.8 million residents in the designated market area. As a CBS affiliate, it delivers national and international news from the network while focusing on community issues, such as crime, education, and politics in Maryland. The station's historical significance includes being one of the first TV stations in the region, contributing to the development of broadcasting in the United States. In emergencies, like severe weather events or public safety alerts, WJZ serves as a vital information source, helping keep the public informed and safe. Its continued operation supports local journalism jobs and fosters civic engagement through investigative reporting and community outreach programs.