EnvironmentForecasters predict another sweltering summer. Are we ready?May 30, 2024Scientists say 2024 will likely bring another hotter-than-normal summer and, with it, the potential for more climate-driven disasters.
EnvironmentAfter years in decline, U.S. drowning deaths are rising againMay 28, 2024For the first time in decades, the number of drowning deaths in the United States is on the rise. Researchers say part of the reason for the spike is the pandemic when many pools were closed.
EnvironmentWhen sea otters lose their favorite foods, they can use tools to go after new onesMay 20, 2024Some otters rely on tools to bust open hard-shelled prey items like snails, and a new study suggests this tool use is helping them to survive as their favorite, easier-to-eat foods disappear.
EnvironmentA huge solar storm is hurtling toward the Earth. Scientists say you should look upMay 10, 2024An aurora could be visible as far south as Northern California. Experts say the storm could disrupt some communications and navigation systems like GPS.
State GovernmentCalifornia says restaurants must bake all of their add-on fees into menu pricesMay 10, 2024Service charges; resort fees; "surcharge" add-ons: A new state law requiring price transparency is set to take effect in July. Until now, no one knew how it would apply to restaurants.
EducationViolence erupts at UCLA as protests over Israel's war in Gaza escalate across the U.S.May 1, 2024Members of pro-Palestinian and pro-Israel groups in Los Angeles clashed, with reports of fireworks and pepper spray use. Elsewhere, universities are tearing down encampments and arresting students.
Environment130 million Americans routinely breathe unhealthy air, report findsApril 25, 2024Climate change is making it harder to meet clean air goals, says the 25th annual State of the Air report from the American Lung Association.
EnvironmentStartups want to cool Earth by reflecting sunlight. There are few rules and big risksApril 23, 2024In a parking lot and on San Francisco Bay, NPR witnesses two different tests for solar geoengineering to tackle climate change. With much science unsettled, experts say regulations aren't keeping up.
EnvironmentWildfire smoke contributes to thousands of deaths each year in the U.S.April 18, 2024Two new studies show the unseen toll smoke is taking on people across the country. Climate change is likely to make the problem even bigger.
State GovernmentThe most detailed look yet at the 'exodus' of local voting officialsApril 9, 2024A new report finds more election officials are leaving their jobs now than at any point in the past two decades. But the report also adds new context to the phenomenon.
