WHQR Staff

Tim Owens had taken the job as Planning Director in Pender County in April. He resigned in early June with no notice. He'd previously served as town manager for Wrightsville Beach and Carolina Beach.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has released its seasonal forecast for the 2026 Atlantic Ocean hurricane season, which predicts fewer than average storm activity due to the impact of El Niño. However, officials note that it only takes one major storm to cause severe damage, and say residents should plan accordingly.

Southbound lanes will permanently shift to onto newly constructed lanes as part of the Hampstead Bypass construction project.

At least two bands of severe weather are expected to move across the state, with officials warning residents to expect potentially damaging winds. Multiple school districts have changed their plans for Monday.

Forensic accounting revealed some financial irregularities, and the matter is under investigation.

Information about the 2026 primary elections in southeastern North Carolina: Candidate interviews and questionnaires, details on voting, and Election Day results.

Two Republican candidates are running in the primary race for District Attorney serving Bladen, Brunswick, and Columbus counties. WHQR, WECT, and Port City Daily sent the same questionnaire to both candidates to see where they stand on issues impacting the county.

Two Republican candidates are running in the primary race for Brunswick County Sheriff. WHQR, WECT, and Port City Daily sent the same questionnaire to both candidates to see where they stand on issues impacting the county.

Two seats are open on the Brunswick County Commission, in districts 1 and 2, with two candidates vying for each of them. The media group sent the same questionnaire to each primary election candidate to see where they stand on issues impacting Brunswick County.

There are two Republican primary races for Brunswick County commissioners. WHQR, WECT, and Port City Daily sent the same questionnaire to each primary election candidate to see where they stand on issues impacting the county.