A news flash on television is identified by a sudden, short, and abrupt interruption of the currently airing program to report an important and timely piece of news. Unlike breaking news, which builds interest over some time, a news flash occurs instantly and is brief, providing urgent information that is deemed significant enough to interrupt regular programming. Typically, the broadcast will signal this interruption with a distinctive alert or introduction, and the news segment is short with limited specifics but crucial for timely awareness. Afterward, the flashed news may be expanded into a full breaking news item if more details become available. Key indicators of a news flash on TV include:

• Immediate interruption of non-news programs.
• A brief and urgent news report.
• Often introduced by a special announcement or alert.
• Less detailed but highly timely information.
• The broadcast may use distinctive graphics or sound cues to signal urgency.

This helps viewers recognize the importance and urgency of the news being reported through this brief interruption.