Montauk: a Long Island town famed for fishing, surf, and a rugged coastline; its economy and identity center on maritime life.
Meteorological agencies and the UN have reported a very strong El Niño that has continued to intensify in August 2026. Forecasts show record-warm Pacific sea-surface temperatures, rising global heat and an elevated risk of droughts, floods and food insecurity that will push tens of millions more people into acute hunger this year and next.
Former ABC News producer Samira Said has filed a wrongful termination lawsuit in Los Angeles, alleging harassment by CBS chief correspondent Joel Gutman and accusing ABC News of firing Said after a medical leave. The suit names Disney, ABC News and Gutman as defendants. Gutman is now a CBS News lead contributor and has recently been in the spotlight for ratings boosts and other public incidents.
Scientists say striped bass populations along the East Coast are declining due to a mix of warming waters, drought, altered river flows, pollution and predation. The $8 billion fishing industry risks losses and jobs as regulators consider tighter limits and possible moratoria to protect spawning stock. Montauk guides and anglers reflect on dwindling catches and the culture built around the hunt.