Nearly 300,000 North Carolina college-goers are in default, owing billions in student loans

Student loan repayments were mostly paused from 2020 to 2024. Now, defaults on student loans have nearly doubled in the past year, and millions are trying to get their lives back on track.

Construction work underway: fixing structural issues at 3 Wake County elementary schools

Repairs start this weekend. Teachers and students at one school will start the year at another school.

Happening now: Work begins to fix structural issues at 3 Wake County elementary schools

Repairs start this weekend. Teachers and students at one school will start the year at another school.

Fleas close part of NC beach

A flea infestation has closed part of a popular North Carolina beach.

How congress’s latest push to end the twice-yearly clock change could succeed

Congress has tried and failed before to standardize on daylight saving time, but bi partisan support of the improved bill has sparked cautious optimism that falling back and springing forward might no longer be necessary.

How congress’s latest push to end the twice-yearly clock change could succeed

Ask the Meteorologist: Will wildfire smoke impact World Cup final in NJ?

Dense smoke from the Canadian wildfires is descending on the US. Significant air quality alerts and concerns are in place for many states over the next 48 hours.

Why small departments hire 'problem' officers comes down to 3 factors

Sources at all levels of law enforcement say smaller departments face a harder hiring scenario than their larger counterparts. More than a dozen sources weighed in and agree that whether a small department gets saddled a problem officer comes down to three things.

RDU welcomes 5 new restaurants at Terminal 2

Raleigh-Durham International Airport held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for five new dining options opening within Terminal 2.

Drought status: Recent rain provides decent drought relief in eastern half of NC

Several areas in the eastern half of the state improved slightly thanks to recent rain, but extreme drought persists widely across central and eastern North Carolina.

Drought status: Recent rain provides decent drought relief in eastern half of NC

Several areas in the eastern half of the state improved slightly thanks to recent rain, but extreme drought persists widely across central and eastern North Carolina.

Carowinds' Fury 325 coaster closed for 2nd time in 3 years

Carowinds closed its popular roller coaster, Fury 325, on July 7 after identifying an issue with the ride's foundation during a routine maintenance inspection.

Explosive diarrhea? Symptoms, prevention and other answers about stomach bug cyclospora

North Carolina has reported at least 205 Cyclospora cases since May 1, 2026. The bulk of the cases statewide -- more than 180 -- are in Wake County.

Watch parties or at home, catch the games of the 2026 FIFA World Cup

The 2026 FIFA World Cup comes down to four. France will play Spain in Arlington, Texas on Tuesday and England will face Argentina in Atlanta on Wednesday.

A man became Tarboro's watchdog after it lost its newspaper. Now his work is getting noticed

When Tarboro lost its local newspaper, John Walker didn't leave. Instead, he stayed and built the digital news site "My Tarboro Today" to keep covering the community.

Wake board approves repairs at 3 schools, questions whether they'll be ready in time for school year

The Wake County Board of Education approved 9-0 Monday emergency construction contracts --- for a still-to-be-determined amount of money --- at three schools with significant structural concerns that could affect the start of the school year.

Drought conditions make hot weather even hotter

While the lack of rainfall is an obvious part of North Carolina's ongoing drought, there's another side effect that many people don't realize. Drought conditions can make hot weather even hotter.

Drought status: Rain added a foot of water to Falls Lake, still 10 feet below last summer's level

Summer thunderstorms added a foot of water to Falls Lake between July 6 and 13, 2026, but extreme drought persists across central and eastern North Carolina.

What is an aortic dissection?

On Saturday night, Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., died of an aortic dissection — a rip in the aorta, the main artery carrying blood from the heart to the rest of the body.

Support local by drinking these spirits distilled in North Carolina

Those who enjoy spirits and whiskey should go local with North Carolina bourbon. There is plenty to tour and taste, which can give you a unique glimpse into a more agricultural side of NC.

Sunflowers in bloom: It's prime time to visit Dix Park

If you are looking for a good photo opportunity or just want something to do on a summer day, the sunflowers at Raleigh’s Dix Park are for you.

Feds say NC special education still needs improvement. What they say still isn't working

A report by the U.S. Department of Education is the latest to raise concerns about special education in North Carolina, which families and advocates for thousands of students with disabilities have long contended is drastically underfunded.

Dix Park holds Sunflower Celebration on Saturday as sunflowers start to bloom

The sunflowers are back! Dix Park announced Thursday that the buds are starting to bloom, so it will be celebrating peak bloom on Saturday, July 11.

Slideshow: Sunflowers in bloom at Dix Park in Raleigh

The sunflowers at Dix Park are blooming. WRAL viewers submitted their photos of the flowers to us. You can submit yours at wral.com/report-it

Three Wake schools need emergency repairs before school starts

The issues "prevent safe occupancy by students," according to the school district.

Foodie News: Raleigh Restaurant Week, plus new three new Japanese spots

Triangle Food Guy Sean Lennard has the latest: Three new Japanese resturants are coming to the Triangle, fusion resturants, and more.

Explore on the water: How, where to kayak in Raleigh

It doesn't matter if you're a seasoned paddler or a novice eager to dip your paddle, kayaking offers a unique way to explore Raleigh.

Most NC voters expect political violence. Some prefer candidates who embrace it, poll finds

Most North Carolinians expect political violence during the 2026 election cycle. And about one in every four or five voters say they’d be more likely to support candidates who refuse to condemn violence against the other side.

Most likely to be scammed: BBB data shows towns most targeted

An analysis of data with the Better Business Bureau shows which communities within the Triangle are most frequently reporting scams, both attempted and successful.

Explosive diarrhea? 200+ cases of stomach bug cyclospora in NC

It's invisible to the naked eye, difficult to trace and can cause weeks of diarrhea. Here's what to know about the parasite, Cyclospora.

Soaring ticket prices cause NC lawmakers to ban the bots

A new provision in North Carolina’s budget creates tougher ticket protections, requiring upfront prices and cracking down on bots after Hurricanes fans reported problems buying Stanley Cup Final tickets. The law applies to tickets sold or resold on or after Oct. 1, 2026, for live entertainment.

Consumer Reports investigation finds arsenic levels in everyday rice products

Rice can carry a risk: inorganic arsenic, a dangerous form of a heavy metal and known carcinogen.

Britt's Donut Shop opening second location in Charleston

Britt’s Donut Shop, a staple on the Carolina Beach boardwalk, announced it will be opening a second location this fall. The announcement was made on the shop’s Instagram page.

Dix Park sunflowers blooming soon, park says

The sunflowers are back! Dix Park announced Tuesday that the field is full of buds that are expected to pop very soon.

Protect your data: Create a guest WiFi network to share

With a secondary guest network, your stuff is on the primary network and everything else is on the secondary network. It keeps data and devices separate, and safe.

Explosive diarrhea? Here's what to know about Cyclospora

It's invisible to the naked eye, difficult to trace and can cause weeks of diarrhea. Here's what to know about the parasite, Cyclospora.

Fayetteville activates Stage 1 water restrictions. Check limits on use in your town

Much of North Carolina is in a severe drought, with parts of the Triangle in extreme drought conditions. As a result, several municipalities have implemented water restrictions. Here's what to know.

Beat the weekend heat with 3 Triangle science museums

The Triangle’s science museums have you covered this hot holiday weekend.

Foodie News: Dave's Hot Chicken coming to Garner, new wine and cocktail bars in Raleigh

Triangle Food Guy Sean Lennard has the latest: A daylight-to-dusk cocktail bar in Raleigh, a new Dave's Hot Chicken in Garner and more.

Drought and water use: Carthage bans fountains, watering yards. Check limits on use in your town

Much of North Carolina is in a severe drought, with parts of the Triangle in extreme drought conditions. As a result, several municipalities have implemented water restrictions. Here's what to know.

Ask the Meteorologist: How insured are North Carolinians for inland flooding?

Inland flooding is common when it comes to tropical systems. How does North Carolina stack up in terms of flood insurance?

Kava is trending. The science is still catching up

A new UVA Health study found kava-related poison center calls rose 383%. Researchers say products that combine kava and kratom are raising new questions about safety.

Must-try frozen treats around the Triangle

Here are some of the best ice cream rolls, sorbet, gelato and traditional ice cream the Triangle has to offer, based on reccomendations from WRAL viewers and staff.

NC drought improves slightly, recent rain did little to help

A weekly update on the status of North Carolina's drought.

Only on WRAL: Durham Fire Department cracks down on illegal fireworks during Fourth of July holiday

Inspections are underway at roadside stands and pop-up tents to make sure your celebrations don't go up in flames.

Weekend best bets: July 4 fireworks, outdoor movies and fun

The month of July features Independence Day celebrations, festivals, movies in the park and so much more.

Math, meals, period products and book challenges: What's in the budget for K-12 education

The budget, unveiled Tuesday by lawmakers, includes everything from math education improvements to banning “meals of shame” for students and new rules for teacher licensure.

Raleigh to celebrate the 4th with First in Freedom parade

The First in Freedom parade in downtown Raleigh is part of the America 250 celebration.

Hot air is here. Switch ceiling fan direction for maximum cooling

Changing your fan to the summer fan direction will improve the airflow in your room. Additionally, it can help you save money on your energy bills.

9 steps to keep your home cool when the temperature tops 100

By taking a few proactive measures, you can create a cooler and more comfortable living environment in your home, while also conserving energy.

Here's where to get wet in coming heat wave

Looking for relief from the heat? Explore swimming holes, lake beaches, splash pads and other places to cool off in the region.

NC drought: no change since last week, water reservoirs are very low

A weekly update on the status of North Carolina's drought.

How to help those impacted by the Venezuela earthquakes

Two powerful, back-to-back earthquakes shook Venezuela Wednesday evening, collapsing buildings, killing hundreds and leaving thousands more missing across the northern part of the country. Many more are feared dead.

Thousands of NC student loan borrowers face big changes. What to know as federal loan repayment ends

Approximately a quarter million North Carolinians face significant financial decisions beginning in one week with the federal SAVE student loan repayment plan sunsetting by summer's end.

Water use restrictions: What you can and can't do in your community as drought deepens

Much of North Carolina is in a severe drought, with parts of the Triangle in extreme drought conditions. As a result, several municipalities have implemented water restrictions. Here's what to know.

The biggest summer shopping events from top retailers are happening now

The biggest summer shopping events from Amazon (Prime Day), Walmart, Target, and Kohl's are live now with surprisingly impressive deals! Read on for the details and a list of top buys.

Weekend best bets: Out! Raleigh, BrickUniverse Lego fest and more

The month of June features tons of Pride events, festivals, markets and more.

Sea of red: Photos from Carolina Hurricanes Day in Raleigh (June 20, 2026)

A sea of red and black washed through downtown Raleigh on Saturday to cheer for the Stanley Cup champion Carolina Hurricanes.

No AI detectors, more citations. What's in a new Wake schools' AI policy draft

Development of an AI policy is one part of addressing a technology already disrupting education in Wake's classrooms and classrooms across the world, leading to fears of stifled learning and disengagement.

Tracking the tropics: Tropical system in Gulf could bring rain to Triangle

Potential Tropical Cyclone One developed on Tuesday. It will bring heavy rainfall and dangerous flash flooding to southern Texas and parts of Mississippi. It could bring North Carolina much-needed rain in the coming days.

Core Cane at Cane's: Andrei Svechnikov feeds Caniacs' parade excitement at popular restaurant

What would a Russian hockey player know about serving chicken fingers? Carolina Hurricanes winger Andrei Svechnikov will give it a shot at Raising Cane's in Raleigh on Tuesday afternoon.

High beef prices reach ranchers, restaurants endure amid bleak economic forecast

A 75-year low in the cattle supply has created higher demand and higher prices, which economists expect will last through next summer. The increased cost has finally reached the ranchers, whereas a restaurant owner has been grappling with absorbing the additional costs for nearly 18 months.

Bipartisan NC bill seeks $5.4 million for psychedelic therapy research targeting PTSD

North Carolina lawmakers have introduced Senate Bill 1018, known as "the HEAL Act," a bipartisan effort that would allocate $5.4 million to create a task force and a grant pilot program for studying psychedelic-assisted therapies.

Hurricanes' Stanley Cup parade: Route, street closures and parking info released

A parade celebrating the Carolina Hurricanes' Stanley Cup win will be held Saturday, June 20, in downtown Raleigh. Mayor Janet Cowell has proclaimed Saturday "Carolina Hurricanes Day."

Core Cane at Cane's: Andrei Svechnikov to work shift at popular chicken restaurant

What would a Russian hockey player know about serving chicken fingers? Carolina Hurricanes winger Andrei Svechnikov will give it a shot at Raising Cane's in Raleigh on Tuesday afternoon.

Tracking the tropics: Potential Tropical Cyclone One develops near southern Texas

Weekend best bets: Juneteenth, food trucks and markets

The month of June features tons of Juneteenth events, festivals, markets and more.

Stanley Cup back in Raleigh, with 'Carolina Hurricanes Day' parade planned for Saturday

A parade celebrating the Carolina Hurricanes' Stanley Cup win will be held Saturday, June 20, in downtown Raleigh. Mayor Janet Cowell has proclaimed Saturday "Carolina Hurricanes Day."

Fayetteville murder suspect contacted adopted child's birth mom days before arrest

Avantae Deven was arrested on June 24, 2024, in connection with the deaths of her adopted children, Blake and London. Days before that arrest, Blake's birth mother, Felicia Chandler, says Deven reached out to her. Something Deven allegedly said gave Chandler a bad feeling.

Canes fans share Stanley Cup spirit

Carolina Hurricanes fans showed their colors through shirts, hats, flags and signs to cheer their team's 2026 Stanley Cup championship.

NC still doesn’t have a budget. Why a top GOP leader says ‘we’re on track’

For more than a year, state lawmakers have tried and failed to pass a comprehensive state budget. Republican leaders say they can get it done this month. Here’s what we know so far.

Watch parties or at home, catch all the games of the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Hype for 2026 FIFA World Cup has reached a fever pitch. Whether watching at home or your favorite sports bar, here's your guide to catch all the matches.

Q&A: Water restrictions for Wake, Johnston counties and beyond. Here's what to know

Much of North Carolina is in a severe drought, with parts of the Triangle in extreme drought conditions. As a result, several municipalities have implemented water restrictions. Here's what to know.

Q&A: Water restrictions for Raleigh, Fuquay-Varina and beyond. Here's what to know

Much of North Carolina is in a severe drought, with parts of the Triangle in extreme drought conditions. As a result, several municipalities, including Raleigh and Fuquay-Varina, have implemented water restrictions. Here's what to know.

Canes Game Game 5 watch party moves to Red Hat

The Carolina Hurricanes are heading back to the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Here are some Triangle-area sports bars that are sure to provide lively atmospheres for what's hopefully another deep playoff run.

Video from insurance investigation shows NC roofers ripping shingles, defrauding state and companies

Investigators with the Department of Insurance walked WRAL 5 On Your Side through a video from an active investigation, demonstrating alleged roofing fraud in the act.

After hundreds of millions lost to fraud, NC lawmakers push for crypto ATM protections

North Carolina House lawmakers approved legislation to regulate cryptocurrency kiosks and curb fraud, particularly among seniors, who accounted for more than half of the $389 million in reported crypto-related losses last year. The bill now goes to the Senate.

Local news deserts are costly to communities. Here's how you can help

"Left Uncovered: Inside North Carolina's News Deserts" premieres June 10 on WRAL. The documentary also highlights the people working to save local journalism, including independent publishers, broadcasters and community leaders searching for new ways to keep local news alive.

Canes watch party moves to Red Hat for Game 5

Best cities for food lovers in 2026: From Lima to New York

Publishing giant Time Out has released a ranked list of the world’s best food cities.

Online child exploitation reports surge more than 1,000% as NC agencies struggle to keep up

WRAL Investigates reached out to some of the largest agencies in the WRAL viewing area. Agencies are trying to keep up with the caseload. However, many reported minimal staff or funding increases.

Stanley Cup Fill-up: Triangle ice cream shop launches popular promotion to support Canes' in Game 4

The Carolina Hurricanes are facing off against the Vegas Golden Knights for Game 4 of the Stanley Cup Final on Tuesday, and one Raleigh ice cream shop is doing its part to support the Canes.

Looking for revenue, NC lawmakers agree to raise taxes on sports gambling operators

Lawmakers have discussed other ways to increase revenue through gambling and the state lottery, people familiar with the negotiations tell WRAL.

Sudden closure of NC trash service leaves customer refunds in limbo, as owner apologizes

At least one former customer has filed a demand letter through their attorney, requesting $175 she is owed from the abrupt ending of trash collection services in the Goldsboro area.

Foodie News: National Donut Day, upcoming restaurants, summer food trucks and more

Triangle Food Guy Sean Lennard has the lastest food news: What's new, who's closing and more.

Here's where to watch the 2026 World Cup

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to begin, and hype for local watch parties and events has reached a fever pitch.

Two North Carolina inmates escaped from a problem-ridden jail. What’s Vance County doing about it?

WRAL Investigates has covered issues for years at the Vance County Jail that now seem to be coming to a head with the escape of two inmates: Michael Miles and Lishawn Knott.

Stanley Cup Final Game 3 watch party at Lenovo Center sold out

Fans unable to afford tickets can party in the Lenovo Center parking lot to watch the Canes meet Vegas in Game 2 on Thursday. The watch party for Game 3 at the arena is sold out as of Thursday.

Dan + Shay headline Canes Game 2 parking lot party

Fans unable to afford tickets can party in the Lenovo Center parking lot to watch the Canes meet Vegas in Game 2 Thursday.

Mordecai Beverage Co. announces closure after six years in Raleigh

The Crabtree Boulevard brewery posted on Instagram to announce it will be shutting its doors, thanking the community for its support.

Dozens of NC school boards approved calendars starting earlier than law permits

Those school districts are largely concentrated in central and western portions of the state, as business and tourism groups in the eastern part of the state have favored the later start dates established in the law.

Bill cracking down on gang activity advances in NC legislature after pushback

The bill, called “Jaleeyah’s Law,” aims to prevent the recruitment of minors into gangs and would make gun possession illegal for anyone identified in court as a gang member. Some lawmakers say its provisions make it too easy to implicate innocent people.

House party: Lenovo Center hosting Canes watch parties for Stanley Cup Final games

On Sunday, the Canes posted on X that the team will host watch parties for all road games for the Stanley Cup Final at Lenovo Center, and the next day, they told fans those unable to get into the arena for the first two games of the series would still be able to watch the Canes outside the arena.

'It's time to think outside the box': NC street drug scientist warns about deadly substance

A dangerous substance known as medetomidine is crowding emergency rooms in some states. Medetomidine is appearing in North Carolina’s street drug supply, according to scientists at the University of North Carolina’s Street Drug Analysis Lab.

Ticketmaster, Hurricanes respond as fans shocked by steep price of Stanley Cup Final resale tickets

Tickets to see the Carolina Hurricanes play in the Stanley Cup Final sold out almost as soon as they went on sale Saturday afternoon. Now Game 1 resellers are topping out at $3,000.

House party: Lenovo Center hosting Canes watch parties for Stanley Cup Final road games

On Sunday, the Canes posted on X that the team will host watch parties for all road games for the Stanley Cup Final at Lenovo Center. The announcement comes as tickets for the Hurricanes' home games for the Final reached more than $1,000 in some instances.

Stanley Cup Final tickets to see the Canes sell out within hours, resale tickets available at $1,000

Tickets to see the Carolina Hurricanes play in the Stanley Cup Final sold out almost as soon as they went on sale Saturday afternoon.

Free things to do in Raleigh

Raleigh makes it easy to enjoy a full day out without spending much, with places like Dorothea Dix Park, the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, Fayetteville Street, and many other places all open to explore for free.

Stanely Cup Final tickets on sale Saturday

RALEIGH, NC – Brian Fork, CEO of the National Hockey League’s Carolina Hurricanes, late Friday night announced that individual game tickets for the team’s home games during the 2026 Stanley Cu...

Skate expectations: Canes fans show out for celebration as team reaches Stanley Cup Final

Playoff runs have become routine for the Carolina Hurricanes. For fans, it also means another opportunity to showcase what may be the NHL's most distinctive tailgating culture.

'Furricanes' show their spirit for the playoffs

Dogs, cats and even pigs in the Triangle are fired up for the Carolina Hurricanes' playoff run!

Tickets on sale for Ripe for Revival's annual Chef Rival event on June 2

Tickets now on sale for Ripe for Revival's fourth annual Chef Rival event on June 2.

Raleigh courthouse shooting rekindles push for red-flag laws in North Carolina

A shooting outside a Wake County courthouse that injured two attorneys is sparking a renewed push over whether North Carolina should allow courts to temporarily remove firearms from people deemed a danger to themselves or others.

WRAL reporting recognized with multiple Regional Edward R. Murrow Awards

WRAL recognized with three regional Edward R. Murrow Awards, to include Overall Excellence

Explaining hockey lingo for NHL, Carolina Hurricanes fans

As the Carolina Hurricanes continue their playoff run, WRAL Sports has compiled a helpful glossary of hockey terms. From "apples" to "yard sales," understanding these phrases is key to fans' viewing experiences.

JetZero adjusts early NC hiring targets, citing state budget delay

The startup aerospace manufacturer, which announced plans to hire 14,500 employees in Greensboro, says it doesn’t plan to create hundreds of jobs in 2027 after all. It now plans to start creating jobs in 2028. A groundbreaking ceremony is planned for next month.