KEEP AM/FM RADIO IN EVERY VEHICLE
Protecting Public Safety. Preserving Local Information.
For nearly 100 years, WOWO has served Northeast Indiana by delivering breaking news, severe weather coverage, emergency alerts, traffic information, and the stories that matter most to our communities.
Today, access to AM radio in new vehicles is under increasing pressure as some automakers remove AM receivers from their newest models. Many broadcasters, emergency management officials, first responders, agricultural organizations, and public safety leaders support efforts to preserve AM radio access in every vehicle because of its role during emergencies.
Why Does AM Radio Matter?
During major emergencies, people often lose access to:
- Cell phone service
- Internet
- Cable television
- Electrical power
AM radio remains one of the most reliable methods of delivering emergency information because its signals travel long distances and can continue operating when other communication systems are unavailable. It also serves as a key component of the nation’s Emergency Alert System.
When Every Second Counts
Whether it’s a tornado warning in Northeast Indiana…A winter storm…A widespread power outage…Or another emergency…Radio continues providing:
- Emergency Alerts
- Severe Weather Coverage
- Evacuation Information
- Road Closures
- Shelter Locations
- Local News
- Traffic Updates
Reliable information saves lives.
A Trusted Resource for Nearly 100 Years
Since 1925, WOWO has been Northeast Indiana’s trusted source for:
- Breaking News
- Severe Weather Coverage
- Local Government
- Election Coverage
- Community Information
- Traffic Reports
- Public Safety Alerts
From tornado outbreaks to snow emergencies, WOWO has remained committed to keeping our communities informed when they need it most.
Public Safety Leaders Support Preserving AM Radio
Organizations representing emergency managers, first responders, agriculture, public safety, and broadcasters have voiced support for preserving AM radio in vehicles because of its role during disasters and emergencies. Supporters include:
- National Emergency Management Association
- International Association of Chiefs of Police
- International Association of Fire Chiefs
- National Sheriffs’ Association
- American Farm Bureau Federation
- National Association of Farm Broadcasting
- National Association of Counties
- AARP
- National Association of Broadcasters
These organizations cite AM radio’s resilience and broad reach during emergencies as reasons it remains an important public safety tool.
Why Farmers Continue to Depend on Radio
Across Indiana and rural America, radio remains an important source for:
- Weather Forecasts
- Commodity Markets
- Crop Reports
- Local News
- Emergency Information
Agricultural organizations note that many rural areas continue to have limited cellular or broadband coverage, making radio an essential communication tool.
Severe Weather Doesn’t Wait
When tornadoes, flooding, ice storms, or high winds impact communications infrastructure, local radio stations continue delivering critical information.
Following Hurricanes Helene and Milton, numerous elected officials and emergency managers emphasized the importance of AM and FM radio as reliable sources of emergency information when other communications were disrupted.
Did You Know?
- Nearly 80 million Americans continue to listen to AM radio every month.
- More than 40% of radio listening occurs in vehicles.
- Thousands of AM stations provide local news, weather, agricultural reports, and emergency information nationwide.
- AM radio serves as a vital part of the Emergency Alert System used by federal, state, and local governments.
Stay Connected with WOWO
Whether you’re listening on:
- 1190 AM
- 92.3 FM
- WOWO.com
- The WOWO Mobile App
- Smart Speakers
WOWO remains committed to serving Northeast Indiana with trusted local news and emergency information.
Learn More
Want to learn more about why AM radio remains an important part of our nation’s emergency communications system?
Visit DependOnAM.com to learn more about the role AM radio plays in public safety, local news, agriculture, and emergency preparedness.
While you’re there, you can quickly and easily contact your U.S. Representative and Senators to let them know why preserving AM radio in vehicles matters to you. The site includes a simple advocacy tool that lets you send a message directly to your members of Congress in just a few minutes.
Your voice can help ensure future generations continue to have access to trusted local news, weather information, and emergency alerts—especially when they matter most.