West Virginia in the news: a deadly refinery chemical leak hit workers; power bills surge in an energy-rich, poor region. WV facts: mountainous, borders PA, MD, VA, KY, OH.
Severe weather has been recurring across the US, with tornadoes, large hail, and damaging winds reported in recent days. Forecasts indicate similar conditions will persist through Tuesday and Wednesday, especially in regions affected last week. Warm temperatures are also expected to increase risks of storms and flooding.
Residents in West Virginia face soaring electricity costs, with bills surpassing their fixed incomes. Despite efforts to conserve energy, many are falling behind on payments, prompting political debate and concern over energy policies amid rising national costs.
A chemical leak at Catalyst Refiners in Institute has resulted in multiple deaths and injuries. The leak involved nitric acid and caused a violent chemical reaction. Emergency services responded, and a shelter-in-place order was issued. The plant's owner promises to cooperate with investigations.
The NTSB has recommended that all new school buses be equipped with alcohol-detection systems that can disable the bus if the driver is impaired, marking a first-time push for this technology in the sector. The agency cites concerns about drunken driving and notes costs and implementation would require federal or state action.
Pope Leo has pushed back after President Trump accused him of endorsing Irans nuclear armament, saying the Church has opposed nuclear weapons for years and asking worshippers to pray for governments to abandon violence. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has met and pledged to improve VaticanUS relations while stressing dialogue on Middle East and hemisphere issues.
Georgia’s 2026 primary is shaping up as a test of election integrity and technology, with tightened voter ID rules going into effect, a looming debate over voting-system reform, and candidates divided on how to handle 2020-era irregularities while preparing for a potential shift to hand-marked ballots by 2028.