KFSM TV (5NEWS) Guide 2026: Over-the-Air Frequencies, Local News, And Streaming Access In Northwest Arkansas
KFSM-TV, operating under the on-air branding 5NEWS, is the primary CBS-affiliated television station serving the Fort Smith, Fayetteville, Springdale, and Rogers designated market area (DMA) in Northwest Arkansas and the Arkansas River Valley. Owned by Tegna Inc., the station delivers local news, severe weather tracking, Razorback sports updates, and CBS network entertainment across broadcast, cable, satellite, and digital streaming platforms.
Understanding KFSM-TV Channel 5: Technical Profile and Market Footprint
KFSM-TV operates as a dual-market broadcaster, bridging two distinct geographic regions: the mountainous urban centers of Northwest Arkansas (Washington and Benton counties) and the industrial and historical hub of the River Valley (Sebastian and Crawford counties). To effectively serve this expanded market, KFSM maintains studio facilities in both Fayetteville and Fort Smith.
The station transmits from a high-elevation tower facility located in northern Crawford County near Cedarville and Mount Gayler. This strategic hilltop placement allows its broadcast footprint to cover rugged terrain across the Ozark and Boston Mountain ranges, reaching viewers into eastern Oklahoma and southern Missouri.
Station Specifications and Engineering Matrix
- Call Sign: KFSM-TV
- Virtual Channel: 5 (Display Channel via PSIP)
- Physical Transmission Channel: RF Channel 18 (UHF Band)
- Network Affiliation: CBS Television Network (Primary)
- Parent Company: Tegna Inc.
- Facility ID: 3460 to 3462 series
- City of License: Fort Smith, Arkansas
- Newsroom Facilities: Johnson/Fayetteville (Primary News Operations) and Downtown Fort Smith
- Service Area Coverage: Washington, Benton, Sebastian, Crawford, Madison, Franklin, and Logan counties in Arkansas; Le Flore and Sequoyah counties in Oklahoma.
Complete 2026 Digital Subchannel Lineup and Technical Specs
Modern over-the-air digital television allows broadcasters to multiplex multiple digital subchannels over a single radio frequency (RF) assignment. KFSM-TV utilizes its 19.39 Mbps ATSC 1.0 multiplexing stream to broadcast its main CBS feed alongside several specialized digital multicast networks owned by Tegna and third-party syndicators.
+-----------------------------------------------------------------------------+ | NOTE: The subchannel multiplex below reflects standard 2026 post-repack | | channel allocations for the Fort Smith-Fayetteville television market. | +-----------------------------------------------------------------------------+
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Subchannel Multiplex Status (2026 Operational Standards)
The subchannel mapping reflects current 2026 over-the-air assignments for the Fort Smith-Fayetteville broadcast market. Antenna viewers should perform an automatic channel rescan periodically to ensure correct Program and System Information Protocol (PSIP) table alignment.
KFSM-TV Over-the-Air Digital Channel Map
| Subchannel | Network / Brand | Resolution | Format / Aspect Ratio | Core Content Focus |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.1 | CBS (5NEWS) | 1080i HD | 16:9 Widescreen | Main HD Feed, Local News, CBS Network, Live Sports |
| 5.2 | True Crime Network / MyNetworkTV | 720p HD / 480i SD | 16:9 / 4:3 | Procedural Dramas, Crime Documentaries, Evening Syndication |
| 5.3 | Quest | 480i SD | 4:3 Standard | Travel, Science, Military, and Nature Documentaries |
| 5.4 | Twist | 480i SD | 16:9 Widescreen | Female-Inclusive Reality, Lifestyle, and Unscripted Shows |
| 5.5 | Shop LC | 480i SD | 4:3 Standard | Live Home Shopping and Jewelry Retail Programming |
NextGen TV (ATSC 3.0) Implementation Status
In 2026, NextGen TV (ATSC 3.0) broadcasting in Northwest Arkansas operates through market-wide channel sharing agreements. While ATSC 1.0 remains the mandatory universally supported broadcast standard on UHF Channel 18, high-definition 1080p High Dynamic Range (HDR) and Dolby AC-4 audio streams of KFSM 5NEWS are accessible for ATSC 3.0-compatible smart TVs and converter boxes via host station arrangements across the market.
KFSM Live Video | 5newsonline.com
Over-the-Air Antenna Setup and Signal Optimization in NWA and River Valley
Receiving an uncompressed, crystal-clear 1080i over-the-air signal from KFSM-TV requires careful consideration of local topography. The Ozark Mountains create natural physical signal obstacles, particularly in lower-elevation valleys around Fayetteville, Springdale, and southern Van Buren.
Step-by-Step Antenna Calibration Guide for KFSM-TV
- Identify Physical Frequency Type: Although KFSM maps to Virtual Channel 5, its actual broadcast signal travels over Physical RF Channel 18 (UHF). You do not need a large VHF-Low antenna; a high-gain UHF antenna is required for optimal reception.
- Point Toward Cedarville/Mount Gayler: Align your indoor or outdoor antenna toward northern Crawford County.
- From Fayetteville/Rogers: Aim your antenna South/South-West.
- From Fort Smith/Greenwood: Aim your antenna North/North-East.
- Height and Elevation Adjustments: Place indoor antennas as high as possible, preferably on a top-floor window facing the transmitter site. Outdoor mast antennas should be mounted at least 20 to 30 feet off the ground to clear surrounding tree canopies.
- Use Preamplifiers for Long-Range Cable Runs: If your coax cable installation exceeds 50 feet between the antenna and television, install an inline low-noise preamplifier to offset signal degradation.
- Execute a Channel Auto-Scan: Navigate to your TV’s setup menu, select Air/Antenna tuner mode, and run a full channel rescan. If 5.1 is missing, adjust antenna orientation by 5 to 10 degrees and repeat the rescan.
How to Stream KFSM 5NEWS in 2026: OTT Services, Apps, and Cable/Satellite
Viewers transitioning away from traditional over-the-air broadcasts have broad access to live linear programming and on-demand local news reports across modern digital distribution networks.
Over-the-Top (OTT) Streaming Platforms
- Paramount+ (With SHOWTIME Plan): Includes a direct 24/7 live feed of KFSM-TV, allowing subscribers in the NWA market to stream local 5NEWS broadcasts, CBS network primetime programs, and live CBS Sports events like NFL on CBS and SEC/PGA coverage.
- 5NEWS+ App: Tegna’s dedicated connected TV app available on Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, and major Smart TV platforms (Samsung Tizen, LG webOS, Google TV). Offers free 24/7 live local news streams, extended severe weather coverage, instant local headlines, and archived investigative reports on demand.
- Live TV Streaming Services (vMVPDs): KFSM 5NEWS maintains active retransmission carriage contracts on major live streaming suites, including FuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, and YouTube TV. These platforms carry 5.1 CBS in full high definition along with cloud DVR capabilities.
Cable and Satellite Provider Channel Allocations
For subscribers utilizing legacy multichannel video programming distributors (MVPDs), KFSM 5NEWS is carried on designated channel assignments across Northwest Arkansas and the River Valley:
| Service Provider | Market Region | KFSM 5NEWS HD Channel | Standard Definition Channel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cox Communications | Fayetteville, Rogers, Bentonville, Springdale | Channel 1005 / 2005 | Channel 5 |
| Sparklight (Cable One) | Fort Smith, Van Buren, Greenwood | Channel 1005 | Channel 5 |
| DirecTV | Entire Market (DMA #100) | Channel 5 | Channel 5 |
| Dish Network | Entire Market (DMA #100) | Channel 5 / 5150 | Channel 5 |
Distribution Platform Comparison: OTA vs. Cable vs. Streaming
Selecting the best viewing medium for KFSM-TV depends on direct cost, resolution quality, latency during live weather, and portability.
| Feature / Metric | Over-the-Air (OTA) Digital | Connected TV App (5NEWS+) | Live Streaming (Paramount+/vMVPD) | Traditional Cable / Satellite |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Cost | Free ($0/mo) | Free ($0/mo) | Paid Subscription ($8–$80/mo) | Paid Subscription ($75–$130+/mo) |
| Max Picture Resolution | 1080i Uncompressed (Native) | 1080p Compressed Stream | 1080i / 1080p Compressed | 1080i Compressed |
| Broadcast Delay (Latency) | Minimal (Real-time live) | Moderate (15–30s delay) | Moderate (20–45s delay) | Low (2–5s delay) |
| CBS Network Show Access | Full Network Access | News & Local Features Only | Full Network Access | Full Network Access |
| Hardware Required | TV Tuner + Digital Antenna | Smart TV / Streaming Stick | Smart TV / Broadband Internet | Cable Box / Satellite Dish |
Local News Programming, Severe Weather Coverage, and Community Reporting
KFSM 5NEWS operates one of the most technologically advanced newsrooms in Arkansas, tailored to the unique dynamics of a region undergoing rapid economic and population expansion.
Local News Production Schedule
- 5NEWS Morning News: Monday through Friday from 4:30 AM to 7:00 AM, followed by local cut-ins during CBS Mornings.
- 5NEWS at Noon: Monday through Friday from 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM.
- 5NEWS Evening Newscasts: Daily coverage beginning at 5:00 PM, 6:00 PM, and 10:00 PM.
- Weekend Coverage: Morning news blocks on Saturday/Sunday mornings along with dedicated 5:00 PM and 10:00 PM evening editions.
Severe Weather and Emergency Operations
Located in a key segment of Dixie Alley, Northwest Arkansas and the River Valley face severe spring tornadic activity, flash flooding along the Arkansas River basin, and winter ice storms.
KFSM utilizes specialized meteorological infrastructure:
- Dual-Polarization Live Radar Integration: Directly processes feeds from the National Weather Service (NWS) NEXRAD radars in SRX (Fort Smith/Fayetteville area) and surrounding regional sites.
- 5NEWS Weather App: Provides push-notification geo-targeted warnings for hyper-local severe thunderstorm, flash flood, and tornado warnings down to street-level addresses across Washington, Benton, Sebastian, and Crawford counties.
- Continuous Digital Cut-ins: During severe weather outbreaks, KFSM breaks away from CBS network feeds to deliver continuous live coverage on both 5.1 OTA and the 5NEWS+ streaming platform.
Frequently Asked Questions About KFSM TV
What virtual and physical channel does KFSM TV use?
KFSM-TV displays as Virtual Channel 5.1 on digital televisions using PSIP protocol, but physically broadcasts its over-the-air signal on UHF Channel 18.
When setting up or troubleshooting an antenna, select a UHF-capable model directed toward the transmitter located near Cedarville, Arkansas.
Who owns KFSM TV and what network is it affiliated with?
KFSM-TV is owned by Tegna Inc., a major American media operations company headquartered in Tysons, Virginia. The station serves as the primary CBS network affiliate for Northwest Arkansas and the River Valley market.
How can I stream KFSM 5NEWS live without cable?
You can stream KFSM live through Paramount+ (With SHOWTIME) or live TV subscription services including YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and FuboTV. For free local news broadcasts without CBS network shows, download the 5NEWS+ app on Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, or Google TV.
Why does KFSM TV signal drop during rain or heavy wind?
Signal drops during severe weather are usually caused by physical obstruction from trees blowing into the line-of-sight between your antenna and the Cedarville transmitter, or dense atmospheric rain fade affecting RF frequencies. Installing a outdoor high-gain UHF antenna mounted above your roofline stabilizes reception during severe weather events.
Does KFSM TV broadcast in NextGen TV (ATSC 3.0) in 2026?
Yes, KFSM 5NEWS participates in market-wide ATSC 3.0 NextGen TV multiplex sharing in the Northwest Arkansas broadcast market. Viewers with NextGen TV tuners can access enhanced 1080p visual dynamic range and advanced Dolby AC-4 audio tracks while standard ATSC 1.0 signals remain fully supported on channel 18.
Operational Action Plan for Viewers and Cord-Cutters
To ensure continuous access to local breaking news, CBS primetime entertainment, and severe weather alerts from KFSM-TV, apply these optimal access strategies based on your viewing environment:
- For Antenna Cord-Cutters: Upgrade to an outdoor multi-element UHF directional antenna mounted at elevation and pointed toward Crawford County. Rescan your TV tuner every six months to refresh local multiplex tables.
- For Smart TV Viewers: Install the 5NEWS+ app on all streaming devices for immediate, free access to local news on demand and continuous weather event coverage.
- For Satellite/Cable Subscribers: Verify your service package includes local station pass-through to ensure continuous HD feed access to local broadcast channels on Channel 5 or Channel 1005.
