2024 was the hottest year on record. The reason remains a science mystery
The official numbers are in: 2024 is the hottest year on record. Climate change is the main culprit. But there might be something else going on, too.
Environment
What is the flame retardant that planes are dropping on the LA fires?
As fire crews and air tankers work to block the wildfires' explosive growth, images of red clouds of fire retardant falling onto trees are common. What is it — and what's in it?
Pet rescue organizations scramble to respond to destruction caused by LA wildfires
The wildfires in Los Angeles County have left a trail of destruction — displacing entire families, including pets. Shelters and rescue organizations like Stray Cat Alliance are scrambling to respond.
Winter storm brings cold and snow to the Southern U.S.
A major winter storm is expected to be the biggest in years as cold air moves in from the Arctic bringing snow and frigid temperatures across 20 Southern States.
A Wisconsin-based surfer's quest to create a more eco-friendly board
The Great Lakes don't readily evoke images of surfing and surfboard-making, but a surfer in Wisconsin is on an eco-friendly mission to change that.
What are biodiversity credits — and could have a meaningful impact?
Planet Money buys a "biodiversity credit" and travels to the Andean cloud forest in Colombia — to see how these credits work, and if they can really help save threatened species.
Many communities aren't ready for wildfire evacuations. Here's what they can do
Residents feeling the Palisades Fire abandoned their cars in gridlock traffic as the wildfire approached. Evacuation planning is central to saving lives in wildfires, but many communities are behind.
'Like a bomb was dropped': Authorities warn of extensive damage as LA fires rage
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner said that it has received notification of 10 fire-related deaths as firefighters battle multiple blazes for a third consecutive night.
A major winter storm will bring snow to the South. Here are tips from winter experts
Southern states don't often deal with winter conditions, but New England does. New Hampshire especially has tips for how to prepare for a winter storm.
Here's what's behind Russia cutting off its last gas line to Europe
A decades-long Russian-Ukrainian transit gas deal to Europe ended on Jan. 1. For now, the most acute effects are being felt in a region called Transnistria, on the eastern edge of Moldova.