Latest stories, analysis, and insights from the world of earth.
More Americans are turning to small "plug-and-play" solar panels on balconies and backyards to cut electricity bills as US residential energy prices surge by 30% since 2020. These affordable systems, already popular in Europe, are gaining legal traction across US states as a way to democratize clean energy access for renters and homeowners.
New research shows that shallow groundwater, crop irrigation, and natural water reservoirs in the U.S. Corn Belt increase the frequency of intense thunderstorm complexes by 24–35%, providing critical insights for weather forecasting and long-term climate prediction.
A University of Michigan study reveals that harmful algal blooms in Lake Erie produce a diverse array of bioactive cyanopeptides beyond the commonly monitored microcystins, with seasonal patterns and overlapping toxins that can amplify toxicity when combined.
As Lake Powell shrinks to just 23% capacity due to drought and climate change, officials face a critical decision between releasing cool water to protect the endangered humpback chub and the economic costs to utilities serving millions of people who depend on hydropower.
Mount Dukono experiences another eruption as volcanic activity continues at the Indonesian volcano.
More Americans are turning to small, affordable plug-and-play solar panels installed on balconies and in backyards to reduce their electric bills as residential energy costs surge. This accessible technology, already popular in Europe, is gaining traction in the US despite regulatory hurdles, with 34 states now considering or passing legislation to support the systems.
Researchers have formally identified and named a tiny blue octopus discovered near Darwin Island in the Galápagos Islands, using advanced CT imaging technology to study the rare specimen without damaging it.
Vermont becomes the latest state to ban paraquat, a controversial herbicide linked to health concerns and environmental damage.
Europe is warming 2.4°C above preindustrial levels—nearly twice the global average of 1.4°C—due to high-pressure weather systems, proximity to the rapidly warming Arctic, reduced snow cover, and decreased aerosol pollution that previously reflected sunlight.
The UK record for the hottest May day has been broken for a second consecutive day, with Kew Gardens in London recording 35.1C on Tuesday, surpassing Monday's 34.8C. The exceptional heat has triggered amber weather alerts, train delays, water shortages in Kent, and multiple drowning incidents.
The UK has broken its hottest May day record for a second consecutive day, with Kew Gardens in London recording 35.1C on Tuesday, surpassing Monday's 34.8C. The unprecedented heat has triggered amber health alerts and caused disruptions to rail services and water supplies across the country.
Climate change is projected to significantly worsen summer air quality in coming years, with increased pollution and reduced air circulation expected to impact public health.
Researchers examine the distinctive characteristics of tropical cyclones that form and impact Japan, exploring how regional weather patterns and geographic factors create unique meteorological phenomena in the area.
New research examines how tropical cyclones uniquely affect Japan's climate and geography, with implications for understanding severe weather patterns in the region.
A comprehensive look at how global ocean networks are facing unprecedented pressure from climate change, pollution, and industrial activities, threatening marine ecosystems and human communities worldwide.
Britain broke its May temperature record with temperatures reaching 33.5°C near London, surpassing the previous record of 32.8°C and highlighting the intensifying impact of climate change on extreme weather events.
New research reveals how microplastics interfere with the ocean's ability to absorb and sequester carbon dioxide, potentially affecting critical climate processes.
A rare wildfire on California's Santa Rosa Island threatens six endemic plant species found nowhere else on Earth, including ancient Torrey pine trees. Firefighters are racing to contain the 18,000-acre blaze as biologists express concern for the island's unique habitat recovery.
Climate change is pushing starving gray whales into San Francisco Bay where ship strikes are killing them at alarming rates, prompting authorities to deploy AI-powered detection systems to alert mariners and prevent collisions.
Testing has detected glyphosate, a widely-used herbicide, in Lake Tahoe's waters, sparking concerns among environmental advocates about potential impacts on the pristine alpine ecosystem.