Fox News Hourly Update – 1AM ET, February 2, 2026

Host: Ted Lindner (FOX News Podcasts)
Date: February 2, 2026

Episode Overview

This episode brings listeners a concise update on major national and international events, ranging from record-breaking winter weather in North Carolina to political unrest and international tension involving Iran. It also includes highlights from the 68th annual Grammy Awards and public health alerts from Texas. The tone is urgent and informative, in line with the rapid-fire style of an hourly newscast.

Key News Segments & Discussion Points

1. Southeast Winter Storm – Historic North Carolina Snowfall

Segment: 00:03–00:45

• North Carolina experienced a “generational type snow event,” with some areas topping state records.
• Hailey Meyers (Fox Weather):
  • “The top report out of North Carolina, 22.5. That’s higher up in the elevation so you have some orographic lift, can squeeze out some more snow.” (00:12)
  • “This is the fourth snowiest North Carolina has ever been in its state history and the snowiest it’s seen since 2004.” (00:18)
  • Reports include “8.5 inches” officially in Greenville.
  • Local officials estimate road clearance will require “at least three days.” (00:36)
• Consequences:
  • Two deaths and 1,000 vehicle collisions reported.
  • North Carolina Governor Josh Stein provided an update.
• Tone: The report strikes a mix of awe at the beauty and seriousness about the associated dangers.

2. Minneapolis Protests & Federal Response

Segment: 00:45–01:20

• Demonstrations against ice in Minneapolis continued despite the cold, reportedly “a quieter day.”
• President Trump (statement relayed by Brooke Taylor):
  • “I’ve instructed Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem that under no circumstances are we going to participate in various poorly run Democrat cities with regard to their protests and or riots unless and until they ask us for help.” (01:05)
• Insight:
  • Marked policy shift placing responsibility for urban unrest on local authorities.

3. Grammy Awards Highlights

Segment: 01:20–02:01

• Trevor Noah hosted the 68th Grammy Awards in Los Angeles.
• Big Winners:
  • Record of the Year: Kendrick Lamar and SZA, “Luther”
  • Album of the Year: Bad Bunny (also set for Super Bowl halftime)
  • Best New Artist: Olivia Dean
  • Song of the Year: Billie Eilish, “Wildflower”
  • Best Pop Solo Performance: Lola Young, “Messi”
  • Best Music Video: Dochi, “Anxiety”
  • Steven Spielberg won Best Music Film for a John Williams production.
• Tone: Upbeat, celebratory break from hard news coverage.

4. Iran Tensions and U.S. Foreign Policy

Segment: 02:51–03:52

• Ongoing anti-government protests in Iran; the U.S. mulls response.
• President Trump:
  • Not ruling out “military strikes on Iran amid a heavy crackdown.” (02:51)
  • Open to “a negotiated deal…with no nuclear weapons.” (03:16)
  • “But they are talking to us. Trump has made it clear that military planning is happening, confirming that the ships are heading in that direction.” (03:21)
• Matt Whitaker (U.S. Ambassador to NATO):
  • “The Iranians could de-escalate very easily and simply and we’ll see the ball’s in their court.” (03:35)
• Analysis:
  • U.S. is not sharing detailed plans with Gulf allies.
  • President Trump emphasizes limited patience.

5. Measles Outbreak at Texas ICE Facility

Segment: 03:52–04:42

• Movement stopped at Dilley Immigration Processing Center, 70 miles south of San Antonio, due to measles infections.
• Tricia McLaughlin (Homeland Security):
  • “The Texas Department of State Health Services confirmed active measles infections of two detainees.” (04:01)
  • All suspected contacts are quarantined; “they’re ceasing all movement within the facility.” (04:15)
• Jill Naito (reporter):
  • Recently released detainee, five-year-old Liam Conejo Ramos and his father, have returned to Minnesota.
  • Advocacy groups warn many vulnerable children and families remain inside.

6. Congressional and Political Updates

Segment: 04:42–05:00

• Texas update:
  • Christian Menifee (Democrat) to be sworn in Monday after winning a special election for the 18th congressional district.
  • This “shrinks the House GOP majority ahead of a vote on the end of the partial government shutdown.”

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• “This is the fourth snowiest North Carolina has ever been in its state history and the snowiest it’s seen since 2004.” — Hailey Meyers, Fox Weather (00:18)
• “I’ve instructed Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem that under no circumstances are we going to participate in various poorly run Democrat cities with regard to their protests and or riots unless and until they ask us for help.” — President Trump via Brooke Taylor (01:05)
• “The Iranians could de-escalate very easily and simply and we’ll see the ball’s in their court.” — Matt Whitaker, U.S. Ambassador to NATO (03:35)
• “The Texas Department of State Health Services confirmed active measles infections of two detainees... they’re ceasing all movement within the facility.” — Tricia McLaughlin, DHS (04:01, 04:15)

Timestamps for Key Segments

• Historic Snow in North Carolina: 00:03–00:45
• Minneapolis Protests / Trump Policy Statement: 00:45–01:20
• Grammy Awards Recap: 01:20–02:01
• U.S.-Iran Tensions: 02:51–03:52
• Texas ICE Facility Measles Outbreak: 03:52–04:42
• Congressional Update / Shutdown: 04:42–05:00

Summary Tone & Style

Information is presented briskly, in keeping with FOX News’ rapid hourly updates. Reports are fact-dense and attribution is explicit. The episode balances major news stories with quick cultural updates and stays focused on the essentials.