Hawaii hits headlines as lawmakers curb dark money in politics; long-serving Gov. Ariyoshi (1974–86) helped diversify the economy.
Recent stories highlight ongoing conflicts over land use, including efforts to define genuine farming in Hawai'i, land preservation in Michigan, and Australian national parks' private tourism projects. These issues reflect broader debates on conservation, development, and public access, with significant implications for ecosystems and communities.
Recent weeks have seen unprecedented weather extremes across the US, including record-breaking heat in the Southwest and Arctic cold in the Midwest and East. These shifts are driven by high-pressure systems, polar vortex activity, and rapid temperature changes, impacting daily life and raising climate concerns.
Recent weather patterns show a sharp contrast across the US, with record-breaking heat in the Southwest and Arctic cold in the Midwest and East. The West experienced early heatwaves, while polar vortex systems brought snow and freezing temperatures to northern and eastern states, indicating increasing climate variability.
Kilauea volcano on Hawaii's Big Island has entered its 43rd eruptive episode since December 2024. Lava fountains are confined within the summit crater, causing temporary park closures and ashfall warnings. No homes are threatened, but tephra impacts local communities and infrastructure. The eruption's duration remains uncertain.
Hawaii faces its worst flooding in over 20 years, with over 200 rescues, extensive property damage, and concerns over a historic dam. No deaths reported, but the storm has caused at least $1 billion in damages, following heavy rains from recent storms.
Gerhardt and Arielle Konig's trial started nearly a year after a violent incident on Pali Puka trail in Honolulu. Gerhardt Konig faces charges after allegedly attacking his wife during a hike, with conflicting accounts of the events and marital tensions revealed during livestreamed testimony.
Hawaiian lawmakers are advocating for measures to support local flower growers and reduce reliance on imported orchids for leis. Proposals include labeling requirements and restrictions on government purchases of imported leis, amid concerns over cultural authenticity and economic impact. The debate highlights the importance of native flowers in Hawaiian tradition.
Recent articles compare homemade breakfast sandwiches, stuffed peppers, and tuna melts from celebrity recipes with fast-food versions. The stories highlight ease of preparation, ingredient choices, and presentation, emphasizing how home cooking can deliver better flavor and quality than fast-food options, with recipes from chefs Garten, Drummond, and Fieri.
California fuel costs have surged, with a Los Angeles Chevron charging $8.21 for a regular gallon amid a statewide average above $5.00. The spike comes as prices nationwide rise amid geopolitical tension, refinery issues, and climate rules. Lawmakers warn a broader statewide impact future price shocks.
A severe winter storm has caused heavy snowfall, blizzard conditions, and power outages across the Midwest and Great Lakes, prompting travel advisories, bridge closures, and emergency responses. Additional heavy snow and severe weather are forecast through Monday, impacting transportation and public safety nationwide.
Heavy rains on Oahu have caused severe flooding, prompting evacuations for over 5,500 residents. Authorities warn the Wahiawa dam is at risk of imminent failure, with water levels dangerously close to capacity. No fatalities reported, but damages could exceed $1 billion.
The US is experiencing unprecedented weather extremes in March, including severe heatwaves on the west coast, snow in the south, and chaotic temperature swings across regions. Experts link these patterns to climate change, with jet stream shifts causing simultaneous extremes. These events highlight the intensifying impact of the climate crisis.
A large-scale heat dome is causing unprecedented temperatures across the US, with record-breaking highs in multiple states. The heat is expected to persist into early April, driven by climate change and atmospheric patterns, impacting millions and setting new climate records.
Hawaii's land board voted to transfer ownership of the Wahiawa Dam from Dole Food Co. to the state, enabling $20 million in repairs and spillway expansion. The dam, built in 1906, has been a safety concern after recent heavy rains caused flooding and evacuation orders. The move aims to improve safety and address longstanding deficiencies.
Recent studies reveal ecosystems can recover within decades, with animals rebounding faster than trees. UNESCO sites maintain wildlife stability despite global declines, but face threats from climate change and habitat loss. Conservation efforts and genomic research are shaping future resilience strategies.
George Ryoichi Ariyoshi, Hawaii's three-term governor, has died peacefully at age 100. He has been recognized for his efforts to diversify Hawaii's economy and manage population growth during his leadership from 1974 to 1986. His legacy as a trailblazer endures.
Record‑level and near‑record May temperatures have been reported across multiple regions this week — parts of England and Russia have hit unusually high temps while the eastern US has recorded low‑90s — even as eastern Australia is facing a major rain band. Forecasts show brief, intense heat will give way to fronts or rain in most places; Australia is also seeing El Niño odds rise for winter.
Hawaii has been moving to redefine corporations to preclude spending on elections, with a bill sent to the governor and a Montana-backed ballot effort underway. The Citizens United ruling remains a focal point of debate, while advocates say the reform could curb dark money in politics.
JWST limb-resolved spectroscopy reveals a cloudy morning limb and a clearer evening limb on tidally locked exoplanet WASP-94A b, implying strong day-night circulation and challenging past assumptions about uniform planetary atmospheres.
The UK’s South East Water is facing high demand as reservoirs run low during a spell of extreme May heat. Around 18,000 customers in Kent have experienced intermittent supply, with authorities urging essential use while bottled water is distributed to vulnerable households. Authorities warn the hot weather will continue to strain supplies.
The World Meteorological Organization has projected that the Arctic will warm much faster than the rest of the globe, and that multiple scenarios through 2030 will exceed the Paris 1.5°C threshold. The report indicates increased risks of extreme weather, droughts, and wildfires, with El Niño likely to push temperatures higher in coming years.
Transgender troops can stay in the U.S. military as a federal appeals court rules the prior ban illegal, while the government’s broader stance on transgender service faces renewed legal challenges. The decision lowers immediate disruption but keeps open questions about recruitment and policy direction.