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Video: Pregnant woman suffering from heat exhaustion rescued from Florida wilderness

Tue, 12 May 2026 19:53:38 -0400

MARION COUNTY, Fla. – Members of the Marion County Sheriff’s Office jumped into action in Florida on Friday regarding a pregnant woman in distress deep in the wilderness.

First responders had a busy start to the weekend as they were dispatched to help rescue crews in locating a pregnant woman, a man and three dogs in the Juniper Prairie Wilderness, according to the Marion County Sheriff’s Office.

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The couple had ventured deep into the wilderness, admitting they were unprepared and had underestimated the heat for the day, with little water, according to officials.

Due to temperature and medical concerns, and the risk to a woman who is 25 weeks pregnant, Marion County Rescue Crews utilized a helicopter to locate the group.

Helicopter footage from the sheriff’s office shows how they quickly located the couple, with the man giving a thumbs-up while the woman lies on the ground to rest.

An additional team of deputies and rescue crews reached the hikers and immediately provided water and medical care.

According to officials, the woman was showing blatant signs of heat exhaustion and was given an IV drip to help with dehydration before being extracted by way of ATVs through the extensive trail.

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The couple and all three dogs were safely evacuated from the wilderness area.

It is always important to know your physical limits when venturing into the great outdoors and to properly prepare for the environment you are traveling to.

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Officials suggest these tips when planning a hike outdoors in the heat:

Smarter grids, shorter outages: Inside New England's power restoration technology

Mon, 11 May 2026 13:41:19 -0400

New technology is helping a major energy provider restore power quicker in the three New England states they service.

The tech - called smart switches — is transforming the electrical grid by restoring power a lot quicker and more efficiently.

You've probably seen them, and don't even know it. They're devices that are installed on power lines to monitor electricity in real time and protect the system when something goes wrong — like a tree branch hitting a line, animals, lightning or a car hitting a pole.

But the goal is for them to revolutionize power restoration all the time — including during severe weather. It would mean shorter wait times and fewer trucks deployed.

"Just a simple tree coming down and sitting on a wire. Every one of those events requires a truck to be rolled. So, if we didn't have this device, what would happen is [a] tree limb comes down, hits the wire and causes a disturbance to electricity," David Gladey, Eversource vice president of distribution engineering, said.

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The devices talk to each other and isolate outage events, making outages a lot smaller than they normally would have been.

"What would have happened is that event would have gone all the way back to the beginning of our circuit…taking out all the customers along that circuit," Gladey said. "The smart devices are really allowing us to automatically restore customers, and it's also given us the exact location where the real problems are, where we can focus our resources on to get customers back even sooner."

During a power outage, the smart device recloser senses an electrical event or fault and quickly shuts off power to prevent damage. But most outages are temporary, so the device automatically turns the power back on after a few seconds.

If the issue has cleared, customers may just see a brief flicker instead of a long outage, according to Eversource.

If the problem is serious, it stays off and isolates only the affected section, so fewer people lose power.

Eversource hopes to advance this technology, and they're already evaluating the next level of smart devices that can detect other critical system performance needs such as downed electrical wires, leaning or downed poles, wildfire detection and predicting equipment failures.

"We know that we cannot continue just to rely on tree trimming as the way to solve this problem. We know that engineering-wise, we have to think about how we continue to automate and isolate these areas quicker and faster. That’s what this all does," Gladey said.

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Eversource has internally built a benefit cost analysis — a tool that allows them to input all of their reliability data, analyze the number of customers and the type of construction that's out there today.

The tool shows Eversource where they should add smart switches to get the highest value.

The technology currently covers over 15,000 miles of overhead circuits across Connecticut, Massachusetts and New Hampshire.

Eversource has already installed around 8,500 across these states, and they continue to install between 300 and 400 smart switches each year. The energy provider said this tech prevents around 3.8 million customer outages each year.

In Connecticut alone, 1.5 million customer interruptions are avoided annually, and without the smart switches that are already installed, customers would experience four to six more outages each year.

"There’s always a lot of talk about big events, right? And none of us ever want to see those hit, but you know, it’s the smaller events, actually, that are becoming more frequent for us. And those events are becoming more impactful. Because you’re seeing basic wear and tear on the system. You’ve seen the wear and tear on the vegetation," Gladey said.

Over the years, Eversource has made progress installing these smart switches in Massachusetts, New Hampshire and part of Connecticut.

But garnering support from the Connecticut Public Utilities Regulatory Authority, or PURA, has proved to be quite difficult.

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"We’ve not had support from our regulator to be able to finance the investment we believe is needed to do that," Gladey said. "We have been very careful that we're not going to go to the next level of integration without clear regulatory direction."

Eversource and PURA have been engaged in a years-long series of legal and administrative disputes involving rate adjustments, regulatory oversight and other related issues.

A lawsuit filed by Eversource and other utilities in 2025 alleged that PURA disregarded state law and the chairwoman at the time, Marissa Gillett, acted independently in making major decisions rather than using the full commission.

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Gillett stepped down from her position as the PURA chairperson following the lawsuit filing and amid growing scrutiny. Thomas Wiehl has been serving as interim chairperson since then.

Eversource is urging Connecticut officials to consider the economic impact on the state when power outages aren't being addressed as fast as possible.

"Our entire response cost for a storm is less when you have those smart switches on the system because they're able to restore the power instead of us having to get a crew out there to analyze what exactly the fix is, and then to go ahead and make that fix," Gladey said.

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Gladey said Eversource is looking to install an additional 500 smart switches in Connecticut alone over the next five years.

"We are very committed that the right thing to do is to make that investment so we can shorten outages to the best of our ability," Gladey said. "We're excited to be able to work with them [PURA] to be able to convey what we think is needed, and those discussions are happening more and more, which is great."

But the change won't come without a rate increase for customers. Eversource is confident the additional cost will be worth it, saying investments are reflected in customers' bills, whether immediately or down the line.

"That money’s going back into the system to try and increase and improve our reliability and the resiliency of our system," a spokesperson said.

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"We haven't seen any areas where we've installed them, and they haven't provided the operational benefit," Gladey said. "The more you have the ability to strategically sectionalize and isolate, that’s gonna improve our ability to respond to customers."

PURA said they couldn't provide comment "due to ex parte communications" as they evaluate Eversource's next rate case.

You can read more about smart switches here.

Photos: Rescue dog participates in earthquake training drills for the Mexican Red Cross

Thu, 07 May 2026 16:31:05 -0400

MEXICO CITY, Mexico – Natural disasters can sometimes bring out the best in both people and animals, as Halley the rescue dog stole the show during earthquake drills in Mexico.

The Mexican Red Cross began training for natural disasters, such as earthquakes, on Wednesday in Mexico City, Mexico, showcasing the skills of Halley, the rescue dog, during the country's 2026 National Earthquake Drill this week.

Images shared by Red Cross officials show the five-year-old rescue dog participating in training exercises alongside other first responders.

Halley is equipped with protective goggles to ensure she can see clearly and avoid injury while digging and searching for survivors in the event of disaster.

She shows bravery and poise as Halley is hoisted up by fellow search-and-rescue personnel.

Rescue dogs are crucial in aid during times of need, when people go missing or become injured amid disaster.

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According to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, due to their heightened sense of smell, dogs can detect live human scent, even if a survivor is buried deep in rubble.

The most common breeds are Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Malinois, and Border Collies.

The dogs are trained to work and detect in any environment, unaffected by noise, equipment, or other distractions.

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Dogs must be at least 18 months old to be tested for certification in urban search and rescue, and must recertify every 3 years.

According to officials, handlers are also tested on search strategies, tactics, mapping, and more, in addition to canine-handling skills.

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Thanks to events like this, first responders such as Halley can educate the public on the importance of rescue animals and the difference they can make in times of need.

Watch: Florida police officer buys a pair of boots for a dog struggling to walk on hot pavement

Wed, 06 May 2026 18:16:38 -0400

A police officer in Daytona Beach, Florida, bought a pair of protective boots on Saturday for a dog that was struggling to walk on the hot pavement.

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While on patrol, an officer from the Daytona Beach Police Department (DBPD) met a man and his dog, Brew, who appeared to be having difficulty walking on the scorching pavement.

At the time, temperatures in South Florida ranged from a high of 84 degrees to a low of 68 degrees.

Bodycam footage released by the department shows the officer greeting the dog on the sidewalk.

"He’s in pain," the officer told the owner.

"He is in pain, so it’s going to be a slow trek," the owner replied.

The officer then told the owner he was going to return to the station to grab some dog food.

When he came back, he brought a pair of protective boots that he purchased with his own money, along with a DBPD animal care package filled with donated treats and toys for Brew.

"Moments like these remind us that our mission goes beyond enforcement; we’re here to look out for everyone in our community, no matter how many legs they have," the DBPD said in a social media post.

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According to the American Kennel Club, scorching surfaces above 85 degrees can be dangerous for pets. The organization recommends using dog shoes or all-terrain boots to help protect pets during hot weather.

Watch: 6 saved from sinking boat in Florida lake amid hazardous weather as rescuers, Good Samaritan team up

Wed, 06 May 2026 10:26:09 -0400

LAKE TOHOPEKALIGA, Fla. — Rescuers raced against the clock Saturday to save six people from a sinking boat after hazardous weather turned East Lake Tohopekaliga into a dangerous scene.

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The emergency unfolded rapidly, with video capturing the moment passengers began to put on life vests and throw items overboard to lighten the vessel.

On May 2, the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office responded to a 911 call reporting a vessel taking on water in the middle of the lake. Officials confirmed there were six people aboard.

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Rescue operations began around 1 p.m. after the Aviation (STAR) Unit located the vessel and guided surface crews to the scene.

Aerial views showed the extent of the damage, with the boat having taken on so much water that the stern appeared completely submerged.

A wind advisory had been issued earlier that day for Osceola County through the entire afternoon, according to the FOX Forecast Center.

Reported wind gusts reached 20 to 25 mph around the time of the rescue, creating choppy waters that could have hindered rescuers battling the wind and waves.

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Following the rescue, a sub-severe thunderstorm rolled through the area around 1:25 p.m., which would have worsened conditions significantly had the emergency still been ongoing.

Video shows the vessel rocking through the waves as it continued to rapidly take on water.

"Just for the heads-up. They’re about to take some water up all over the bow, and once that happens, I’m afraid it’s going to go down quickly," you hear one officer say.

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As conditions deteriorated, some passengers entered the water before crews could reach them. It was a massive team effort from the Ag Marine Unit, patrol deputies, and the St. Cloud Police Department Marine Unit—assisted by a Good Samaritan—to safely rescue all six passengers.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, no serious injuries were reported.

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Officials noted that incidents like this serve as a critical reminder of the importance of monitoring weather conditions before heading out on the water.

Watch: Dramatic rescue unfolds on a Nevada river as officers quickly save two people

Mon, 04 May 2026 18:28:30 -0400

LOCKWOOD, NV — Law enforcement agents in Lockwood, Nevada, heroically rescued two people Sunday who were stranded in a river.

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According to the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office, the individuals became stranded on a rock after their canoe capsized in the Truckee River.

Due to the heavy currents from the recent snowmelt, they were unable to reach the shore.

The Washoe County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue team, along with the Sparks Fire Department, Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District and the Storey County Sheriff’s Office, quickly coordinated a plan to safely rescue the pair.

Rescue swimmers from the Sparks Fire Department and the search and rescue team entered the river and reached the stranded individuals.

In a video shared by the sheriff’s office, the swimmers are seen holding onto the victims as a crew throws them a rope to pull them to shore.

The pair was brought to safety and evaluated at the scene by emergency medical personnel.

"This was a strong team effort by all agencies involved, working together to ensure a safe outcome," the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office said.

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The department is warning residents about the dangers rivers and waterways can pose this time of year.

According to the U.S. Geological Survey, snowmelt can account for much of a river’s streamflow during certain times of the year, particularly in the spring. Rapid snowmelt can increase the risk of flooding, landslides and debris flows.

In parts of the U.S., annual spring flooding can occur during "rain-on-snow" events, when rainfall combines with existing snow pack. These events can lead to hillside erosion, damage along waterways, downstream flooding and, in some cases, loss of life.

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As the region moves closer to summer, increasing snowmelt is expected to affect river temperatures and intensify fast-moving currents.

Officials urge residents to use caution around rivers and lakes.

Watch: Strong winds send hot air balloon into California casino, power line before remarkable safe landing

Mon, 04 May 2026 12:03:04 -0400

ELK GROVE, Calif.—A frightening hot air balloon accident ended remarkably well on April 27, after strong winds triggered an unplanned launch at Sky River Casino, sending the balloon into the side of the building before a safe landing.

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Throughout the captured footage, the wind is evident as the tall grass sways along the field, while audible gusts are heard. As the balloon descends, it’s briefly lifted again by a gust, popping up before finally settling onto its side.

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Following its landing, the balloon is seen almost completely deflated from the wind.

According to the Elk Grove Police Department, the balloon hit the casino, along with a power line before it descended onto the field southeast of Grant Line Road.

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The pilot was the only person on board the hot air balloon and, astonishingly, was unharmed in the accident.

Sunken WWI ship 'Tampa' found off English coast, solving century-old mystery

Sun, 03 May 2026 13:48:33 -0400

More than a century after it was torpedoed during World War I, the wreckage of the USCGC Tampa has been located off the coast of England by the British dive team Gasperados, the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) announced.

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Divers located the sunken cutter about 50 miles off the coast of Newquay, Cornwall. The vessel lies more than 300 feet deep on the floor of the Atlantic Ocean.

The discovery began in 2023 when the Gasperados Dive Team reached out to the Coast Guard historian’s office regarding the vessel.

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Over the past three years, the group of volunteers dedicated themselves to conducting extensive searches for the long-lost Tampa.

The Coast Guard historian's office provided the dive team with essential historical documentation and technical specifications to ensure the wreck site was accurately identified.

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Coast Guard Atlantic Area Historian Dr. William Thiesen noted these archives included original photos of the Tampa’s weaponry, bell, ship’s wheel and specific deck hardware.

The USCG calls it the "greatest single wartime loss."

When the vessel was lost in 1918 after being torpedoed by a German submarine in the Bristol Channel, all 131 people on board died, making it the largest single American combat loss of WWI.

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Adm. Kevin Lunday, commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard, emphasizes that the service has defended the nation since 1790 and highlights how the courage and sacrifice of the crew aboard the Coast Guard Cutter Tampa reflects this enduring legacy.

"When the Tampa was lost with all hands in 1918, it left an enduring grief in our service. Locating the wreck connects us to their sacrifice and reminds us that devotion to duty endures," Lunday said, adding that their legacy of service will never be forgotten as the Coast Guard continues to defend the nation.

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The Coast Guard is now developing underwater research and exploration plans alongside its experts in specialized operations, history, cutter operations, robotics, autonomous systems and diving.

See it: Rare Greek coin from 3rd Century BC discovered by 13-year-old in Berlin

Fri, 01 May 2026 14:48:35 -0400

BERLIN– An ancient Greek coin depicting the goddess Athena was discovered by a 13-year-old student in a field in Germany recently.

PETRI Berlin, an archaeological lab, is a collaboration between the Museum of Prehistory and Early History of the National Museums in Berlin and the State Office for the Preservation of Historical Monuments in Berlin, and announced the find.

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The lab said it's the first archaeological find from Greek antiquity found within the city limits of Berlin-Spandau.

The coin is approximately 12 millimeters in diameter, and is made of bronze, PETRI Berlin said. It weighs about 7 grams.

It dates to between 281 and 261 BC and was minted at Ilion, otherwise known as the ancient city of Troy.

It was found by a 13-year-old student in a field.

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One side of the coin depicts the head of the goddess Athena wearing a Corinthian helmet. The reverse shows Athena ilias wearing a distinctive headdress, holding a spear in her raised right hand and a spindle in her left.

PETRI Berlin said at first, it was unclear if the coin was from an archaeological context or a collector's item lost in modern day, but after experts examined where it was found, clear evidence arose indicating the area was used as a burial ground for a long time.

"Ceramic fragments, cremated human remains, and a double-lobed bronze button point to the existence of a burial ground dating to the Bronze Age or Early Iron Age," the news release from PETRI Berlin said.

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The lab said finds from the Roman Imperial period and a Slavic knife sheath, provided further evidence that the site was used into later eras.

"Finds dating back to classical antiquity are generally rare in Berlin," PETRI Berlin said. "While Roman objects are occasionally—yet regularly—attested, Greek finds have until now been entirely absent."

The lab said the coin is a significant science rarity.

An investigation is ongoing into how the ancient Greek coin made its way into North-Central Europe. The lab said trade connections between the Baltic Sea region and Mediterranean dated back to early antiquity.

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However, it is hypothesized that the coin was more symbolic than of economic function.

The coin is on display at PETRI Berlin as of April 15, 2026.

Massive sea lion named Chonkers is capturing hearts in this coastal city

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 20:20:15 -0400

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. - A sea lion named Chonkers is capturing hearts and making waves on social media.

Laying amid the dozens of sea lions on Pier 39 in San Francisco, California, Chonkers stands out in the crowd because of his - you guessed it - chunkiness.

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Chonkers is enormous compared to the rest of the sea lions that gather daily to sunbathe and rest on the pier's K-dock.

The 2,000-pound steller sea lion is a different species than his dockmates, and he weighs nearly twice as much.

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Steller sea lions can weigh up to 2,500 pounds, while California sea lions tend to be up to 900 pounds, according to the Marine Mammal Center.

Male steller sea lions can grow up to 11 feet in length and weigh almost 2,500 pounds. Females are much smaller and may grow to 9 feet in length and weigh 1,000 pounds.

The Marine Mammal Center said adult male steller sea lions have a bulky build and a very thick neck with longer fur that resembles a lion's mane, hence the name "sea lion."

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The sea lion was first reported at Pier 39 on March 13. Stellar sea lions aren't as common as California sea lions in the area, but the Marine Mammal Center said it isn't the first time it's happened.

Steller sea lions have been reported at Pier 39 before, most notably May 2023, the center said. The species, especially males, can travel long distances in a season.

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The Marine Mammal Center said steller sea lions are similar in appearance to California sea lions and are sometimes confused with them. But the animal is much larger and lighter in color.

They need undisturbed land habitat to rest, molt, socialize, mate, give birth and nurse small pups during breeding season, which runs from mid-May to mid-July.

The Marine Mammal Center said steller sea lions are highly social animals and may rest in large groups, including with California sea lions, overlapping their bodies.

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It's important to note that at this time of year, large steller males are often more underweight than normal as they typically, but not always, consume less food during this time, sometimes fasting for up to two months, according to the Marine Mammal Center.

Experts said they consume a wide range of prey, foraging and feeding primarily at night both near and offshore, including several types of fish, squid and octopuses.

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"While we're keeping an eye on ocean temperatures, it's really too early at this point to say whether that'd be a contributing factor," Marine Mammal Center Associate Director of Public Relations Giancarlo Rulli said. "There has not been any real impact to other marine mammal species we respond to so far."

Pier 39 said a few California sea lions started lounging out shortly after the Loma Prieta earthquake hit San Francisco in October 1989. By the following January, the animals started to arrive in droves and completely took over the K-dock.

Top 10 best beaches in the world for 2026 announced

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 15:12:55 -0400

Summer is right around the corner, and beaches are on the brain as summer vacation planning gets underway.

World's 50 Best Beaches released the 2026 list of the best beaches in the world.

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See which beaches made the top 10 list.

Located on Palawan, Entalula Beach is a scenic paradise surrounded by limestone cliffs, beautiful white sand and stunning blue ocean waters.

Only accessed by boat, this beach sees fewer visitors than other nearby beaches, according to World's 50 Best Beaches.

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Located in a secluded cove in Kefalonia, Greece, Fteri Beach is a beautiful beach destination surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters.

In addition to the stunning waters, large white cliffs and a sandy pebble beach make Fteri Beach a great tourist destination away from the general population.

The striking coastal views of Wharton Beach on the southern coast of Western Australia make a great quiet escape.

The beach is remote and less crowded than others, and is a great spot for surfing and dolphin watching, World's 50 Best Beaches said.

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Nosy Iranja is a unique beach getaway off the coast of Madagascar where visitors can swim and watch marine life.

Two islets, Nosy Iranja Be and Nosy Iranja Kely, are connected by a sandbar at low tide. The sandbar disappears beneath beautiful blue waters as the tide rises.

East Beach on Vomo Island, Fiji, is a place that feels truly untouched by humans.

On the sheltered side of Vomo Island, the beach is tucked away and surrounded by dense vegetation. The beach offers quiet white sands and long stretches of peace with very little development.

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Shoal Beach East in Anguilla is a more popular beach, but still feels quiet and serene.

The beach offers a variety of laid-back beach bars and beautiful palm trees, with gentle waves, making it a great place to relax and swim.

Dhigurah Beach is a standout place easily reached from the nearby village. A very long sandbar extends out, making a quiet getaway surrounded by sand and pristine waters all around.

The World's 50 Best Beaches said the conditions are usually calm, making it ideal for long walks and amazing swims, while sections of reef nearby are teeming with healthy marine life.

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Playa Balandra in La Paz, Mexico, is a popular, yet quiet and relaxing beach.

Part of a protected area, the beach is clean and well cared for, with shallow waters across the entire bay that make it great for families.

Located just off Cambodia's mainland, Koh Rong beach is kilometers long, and a perfect place for a beach day.

Much of the coastline is minimally developed, so it's a great place to spend hours in the sun and sand. Koh Rong has both open beaches and is surrounded by greenery, allowing you to pick your scenery.

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Donald Duck Beach is located in the protected Similan Islands National Park, and typically is only accessible during the park’s open season from November to May.

Reached by boat, the beach is quiet and typically sees fewer visitors than other Thai beaches. The beach features large, rounded granite boulders, including the distinctive formation that gives it its name, accompanied by white sands, green trees and beautiful water.

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Click here to see the full top 50 best beaches in the world from theworlds50beaches.com.

Officials aim to combat spread of flesh-eating parasite with new sterile fly production facility

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 12:00:36 -0400

Officials are looking to combat the spread of a potentially deadly, flesh-eating parasite that is creeping uncomfortably close to the U.S. after being reported about 60 miles from the Texas border, according to a new study.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) study notes that the New World screwworm is about 60 miles away from the Texas border in Nuevo León.

"This is now the northernmost active case in Mexico, and that puts Texas squarely in the crosshairs. The fact that this detection falls within the current sterile fly dispersal zone tells you just how real and active this fight already is," Sid Miller, commissioner of the Texas Department of Agriculture, said.

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According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), New World screwworms are a species of parasitic fly that feeds on the tissue or flesh of warm-blooded animals and people.

They lay their eggs in open wounds and body openings such as the eyes, nose, mouth or genitals.

When the maggots hatch, they burrow and feed on the living tissue or flesh.

After about seven days, the larvae will come out of their host and burrow into the surrounding soil, where they'll eventually emerge as an adult screwworm fly.

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"I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: when it comes to protecting our livestock industry, we must go on offense. That means ramping up surveillance, tightening coordination at the border and making absolutely certain every available resource is deployed to stop this dangerous pest," Miller said.

The USDA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers have made strides towards screwworm preparedness by partnering together to break ground on a new sterile fly production facility that will be located in Edinburg, Texas.

"Breaking ground on this facility marks a major investment in safeguarding America’s livestock and the producers who feed this nation. This puts NWS sterile fly production in American hands, so we do not have to rely on other countries for the best offensive measure to push screwworm away from our borders," U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins said.

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The new facility is intended to start operations in November 2027, hopefully producing 100 million sterile flies per week and will then continue to reach its full production capacity of 300 million sterile flies per week.

Since female screwworm flies only mate once in her life, mating with a sterile male will make sure that their eggs don’t hatch.

The Texas Department of Agriculture assured that they are keeping a close eye on any screwworm developments.

"USDA has been working with Mexican authorities to track and respond, and those efforts matter, but this is no time to let up," Miller said.

PETS TO PESTS: GOLDFISH FOUND TO BE HARMFUL TO NATURAL FRESHWATER ECOSYSTEMS

Officials are advising that you take the following steps if you suspect the presence of a screwworm:

For more information about New World screwworms and USDA’s prevention efforts, visit Screwworm.gov.

These new buoys are monitoring vital coral reef deterioration in Florida Keys

Sun, 26 Apr 2026 17:22:05 -0400

FLORIDA KEYS, Fla. - Scientists are monitoring the impacts of ocean acidification on vital, colorful coral reefs in the Florida Keys by using a new series of buoys.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has unveiled new ocean instruments that are essential in monitoring vital reefs within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.

NEARLY 300 QUEEN CONCHS FOUND AFTER ILLEGAL HARVEST IN FLORIDA KEYS

A new study — which involves NOAA's Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory and the Cooperative Institute for Marine and Atmospheric Sciences — says scientists have deployed Sofar "Spotter" buoys at four of the seven Mission: Iconic Reef sites identified as essential for restoration.

That study reveals that there are variations in how acidification progresses across the Florida Keys, and some sites in the Upper Keys may act as a refuge able to alleviate pH levels — potentially due to the higher abundance of seagrass beds and other deep ocean communities.

Higher pH levels in the ocean, or ocean acidification, reduces carbonate ion availability, which makes it harder for shellfish and corals to build skeletons. This can harm ecosystems by decreasing marine life metabolism, immune response and sensory abilities, NOAA said.

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The buoys seen at the surface measure wave energy, wind speed, sea surface temperature and pressure. Below the surface, integrated sensors measure pH and seafloor temperature in near-real time.

Ocean acidification is impacting the integrity and hard, calcium carbonate structure that comprises entire coral reefs. A decrease in pH across marine ecosystems accelerates the erosion of reefs and decreases their ability to grow, or calcify.

These threats contribute to the loss of crucial habitat that provides shelter to the highest concentration of marine biodiversity in the popular tourist destination.

DIVERS WORKING TO SAVE FLORIDA CORAL REEFS DURING MARINE HEAT WAVE

The Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary consists of 350 miles of the only North American barrier reef — the Florida Coral Reef — which stretches from the Dry Tortugas to Port St. Lucie.

Roughly five million visitors travel to the Florida Keys every year, where 54% of jobs are tied directly to the marine ecosystems, according to NOAA.

The project Mission: Iconic Reefs was launched in 2019 to restore seven strategically-selected reefs covering three million square feet — equivalent to 52 football fields — within the Florida Keys to self-sustaining levels over 20 years.

NEARLY TWO-THIRDS OF CORAL REEF SHARKS THREATENED WITH EXTINCTION FROM OVERFISHING AS MAIN CAUSE, STUDY FINDS

But as ocean acification and other environmental stressors threaten the ecosystem, the need to monitor changing ocean conditions has become more essential.

NOAA said collecting and transmitting data below the surface has always been a challenge because current methodologies are often limited due to the need for heavy machinery, highly-trained personnel and large vessels. This, in turn, results in costly and time-consuming field operations.

But with these new Sofar buoys, scientists can now actively see how conditions fluctuate and monitor instrument functionality in real-time. The four reef sites getting these buoys are Carysfort, Horseshoe, Cheeca Rocks and Sombrero Reefs, NOAA said.

DRONE VIDEO SHOWS COMPLICATED MANATEE RESCUE NEAR FLORIDA KEYS BRUSH FIRE

Scientists are integrating a Sami-pH logger at the base of each buoy, using a colorimetric system where seawater enters the device — comprised of micro pumps, injector valves and reaction cells — and undergoes a chemical reaction when exposed to reactants.

The reaction changes the color of water and produces a pH reading, which is then automated in an online system that provides a high-resolution pH measurement of a reef in near-real time.

CORAL BABIES HEAD TO FLORIDA KEYS TO HELP RESTORE DYING REEFS

"With this new system, we can detect issues when they happen, so we can ensure instrument performance and respond accordingly," Ian Enochs, principal investigator of AOML's Coral Program, said.

As hurricanes, tropical storms and severe weather brush the Florida Keys, scientists will also be able to see how these storms affect coral reefs as they hit — and whether they provide relief when water temperatures are peaking or exacerbate the impacts of other stressors.

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You can explore the live Mission: Iconic Reefs environmental monitoring application by clicking here.

These rare Titanic artifacts sold for over $1 million at auction

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 19:24:49 -0400

Rare items from the Titanic were sold for over $1 million at auctions this month.

One item was a life jacket worn by first-class passenger and survivor, Laura Mabel Francatelli, when the ship sank on April 14, 1912.

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Francatelli wore the life jacket as she boarded Lifeboat No. 1 after the ship struck an iceberg just before midnight. The lifeboat had a capacity of about 40 people, but only 12 were aboard when it left the Titanic.

Francatelli later signed the flotation device along with seven other survivors from the same lifeboat.

"There are only a handful of life jackets worn by survivors which still exist today," auctioneer Andrew Aldridge told Cover Media, adding that most are held in museums and are unlikely to be sold.

The flotation device remained in her family for about 20 years before it was acquired by a private collector.

HOW THE TITANIC WAS TAKEN DOWN BY A MIRAGE

Auctioneers expected the item to sell for roughly $339,000 to $475,000, but it was auctioned off for $904,500.

Another item sold was an 18-carat gold pocket watch that Frederick Sutton, 61, was wearing when the ship sank.

The wealthy, first-class passenger was among the 1,500 lives lost that night.

"The significance of this watch is the fact that it was onboard the Titanic and, most importantly, the seconds hand is frozen in time at the moment its owner, Frederick Sutton, entered the cold North Atlantic water 114 years ago," Aldridge said.

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The watch, which was recovered from Sutton’s body, was expected to sell for about $108,000, but was purchased for $215,000.

"Watches from Titanic passengers are especially prized by collectors and historians, and the fact that it was onboard the Titanic elevates it to a different level," Aldridge said.

California officials warn of increase in tiny black flies known for painful bites

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 18:30:05 -0400

SAN GABRIEL VALLEY, Calif.– Black flies, a tiny insect known for a small, but painful bite, are on the rise in the foothills of San Gabriel Valley in California.

Black flies, also known as "buffalo gnats," are known for biting around the eyes and necklines of humans and domestic animals, according to the San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District.

INVASIVE ‘MURDER HORNET’ LOOKALIKE RAISES CONCERNS FOR POLLINATORS IN THE SOUTH

The flies travel in large numbers and long distances and thrive in flowing water, where they breed.

They are very tiny, only 2 to 3 millimeters long.

Their bites are small and painful, but in Los Angeles County, they do not transmit diseases, according to the SGV Mosquito and Vector Control District.

In communities throughout the San Gabriel Valley foothills, black flies are a recurring, seasonal nuisance.

STUDY FINDS FLESH-EATING BACTERIA, HARMFUL ALGAL BLOOMS IN LONG ISLAND WATERS AS QUALITY WORSENS

To reduce the impact of the flies, the district routinely treats black fly breeding sites by using a natural soil bacteria that is highly effective in controlling black flies and mosquitoes.

Black flies frequently increase in activity in the summer, and are often triggered by scheduled water releases from upstream dams.

Additionally, unmaintained features like decorative fountains and backyard waterfalls can become unexpected breeding sites if water flows are left running, the district said.

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In order to avoid the bite of black flies, the district said to use DEET on exposed skin, as it's the only repellent that works on black flies.

Wearing a net over the face can also help prevent black fly bites, since the eyes and neckline are their primary targets.

The district said it is actively treating breeding sites, but expects activity to remain high for a few weeks while the treatments take effect.

Watch: Deputies rescue double amputee stranded by high tide near Washington ferry dock

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 10:36:09 -0400

KITSAP COUNTY, Wash.- A critical situation unfolded Tuesday night when a double amputee found himself stranded in the waters near the Kingston ferry dock in Washington, after becoming trapped in a hammock as the high tide came in.

Officers from the Kitsap County Sheriff’s Office heard calls for help and began their trudge through the dense brush to reach him.

VIDEO: 5 ALASKA FISHERMEN RESCUED BY US COAST GUARD AFTER RUNNING AGROUND

According to officials, the 55-year-old man was asleep in a hammock secured to logs on the beach when the rising tide came in, trapping him and leaving him stranded in the water.

Rescue video shows the man in a hammock surrounded by high tide waters, nearly sitting in the water while a blanket inside appears soaked.

The man is a double amputee and was unable to put on his prosthetic legs, the Kitsap County Sheriff’s Office said.

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Officers reached the man but were unable to safely carry him off the beach.

At that point, a small launch from a Washington State Ferry vessel bound for Kingston arrived.

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Crew members helped the man and deputies onto the boat and transported them to the ferry Walla Walla, where they were met by medical personnel.

WATCH: COAST GUARD SAVES 4 FROM DISABLED BOAT BATTLING 12-FOOT WAVES OFF LONG ISLAND COAST

From there, the man was taken to a nearby hospital for evaluation.

Invasive ‘murder hornet’ lookalike raises concerns for pollinators in the South

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 19:13:50 -0400

An invasive hornet with striking similarities to the "murder hornet" has several southern states on alert, as experts warn its spread could devastate honeybees and other essential pollinators.

The yellow-legged hornet has drawn comparisons to the northern giant hornet—better known as the "murder hornet"—because of its appetite for native insects and its natural ability to significantly harm biodiversity and agricultural pollination.

Since its arrival on U.S. soil several years ago, there have been reports of yellow-legged hornet colonies in Georgia and South Carolina – with numerous states in the South taking measures to slow the spread of the threatening insect.

SARGASSUM SEAWEED BLOOMS PLAGUING ATLANTIC BEACHES TRACED BACK TO WEST AFRICA

Yellow-legged hornets emerge in early spring and steadily build their numbers through summer into the fall— prompting officials to warn that now is the time to stay alert.

The threat, experts say, is very real – with one study suggesting the invasive hornet can kill 50 honey bees a day – with the ability to decimate entire hives.

WATCH: COUPLE SAVES SEA TURTLE ENTANGLED IN FISHING NET IN MALDIVES

"If allowed in the United States, these invasive pests could threaten populations of honey bees – some of which are already endangered – and other native pollinators," the South Carolina Forestry Commission said.

A North American detection of a yellow-legged hornet colony was first discovered in Savannah, Georgia, in 2023 – though the dangerous insect had developed a reputation around the world long before then.

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Native to Asia, the yellow-legged hornet, also known as the Asian hornet, has spread across the world through cargo, taking a devastating toll on honey bees in Europe beginning in the 2010s, before arriving on U.S. soil.

The threatening insect has earned a deadly reputation of its own. Known to leave piles of headless bees at hive entrances, these hornets become highly efficient hunters once they identify their prey.

Acting as ambush predators, they wait at hive entrances, snatching worker bees mid-flight with their legs as the insects depart. The hornets then dismember their catch, carrying only the thorax—rich in protein—back to feed their young, according to researchers from Purdue University.

Honey bees are essential to U.S. agriculture, pollinating key crops such as almonds, cherries and blueberries, among many other fruits, and contributing over $20 billion annually.

Already struggling pollinator populations would be under serious threat in the event the yellow-legged hornet becomes established in the U.S. – that's exactly why several states in the South are mapping the threat and urging the public to keep their eyes out.

In Georgia, the Department of Agriculture is proactively working to get the word out about the invasive species they've been grappling with for three years as queens emerge from overwintering.

THIS POTENTIALLY DEADLY, FLESH-EATING PARASITE IS GETTING CLOSER TO THE US

Since 2023, a plant protection team from the Georgia Department of Agriculture has been actively tracking, trapping and working to eradicate the invasive yellow-legged hornet from the state.

"As in previous years, we are asking for the public’s continued help. Early reporting of embryo and primary nests is critical—it allows us to stop queens before they spread and reduces potential damage to our state’s honeybee population," Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler J Harper said.

Into spring, early detection and reporting of these nests—the first stages of nest development—are critical, as eliminating them now stops queens from producing workers, reducing the risk of larger secondary nests later in the year and making long-term control efforts more effective.

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According to Harper, this is especially important for residents of coastal Georgia, particularly in Bryan, Bulloch, Chatham, Effingham, Liberty and Screven counties.

After its arrival in Georgia, the hornet quickly spread across state lines into South Carolina.

The invasive species was first detected in South Carolina shortly after its initial report in Georgia, with sightings of yellow-legged hornets reported near Blufton in November 2023.

This rapid and concerning spread prompted Clemson University to establish the Hornet Herald, an informational newsletter that tracks recent spread trends and ongoing mitigation efforts.

Since its spread, Clemson University’s Department of Plant Industry and Cooperative Extension has taken the lead in South Carolina, mapping and tracking the invasive hornets while also providing guidance—including informational materials and videos—on how and where to set traps to capture them.

SPRING STING: PORTUGUESE MAN O' WAR RETURNS TO GULF COAST BEACHES

According to the Hornet Herald, in 2026, 4,279 traps have been set across Beaufort, Charleston, Chester, Colleton, Dorchester, Jasper, Hampton, Lancaster and York counties.

In the Low Country, 102 embryo nests have been removed, while one embryo nest has been removed in the Up Country.

Additionally, 12 queens have been caught in traps in the Up Country district, and more than 3,500 queens have been captured in traps placed throughout the Low Country district.

"Public reporting is our most effective early-warning tool," said Brad Cavin, coordinator of Clemson’s Yellow-legged hornet response program."The more eyes we have across the state, the better chance we have of protecting our beekeeping industry and limiting the spread of this invasive insect."

Officials are asking the public in South Carolina to continue their vigilance by using the Yellow-legged Hornet Reporting Tool to focus on reporting sightings in areas of the state where the insect has not yet been found.

Though there have been no confirmed sightings of the invasive hornet in Alabama, the Department of Agriculture and Industries (DAI) is not letting its guard down.

Officials have begun setting traps around the Port of Mobile and at other locations statewide as a proactive measure to prevent the spread of the species and protect Alabama’s ecosystems, with over 40 traps strategically around the state for weekly monitoring.

In North Carolina, agriculture officials are surveying for yellow-legged hornets, while beekeepers and residents are encouraged to set, report and monitor home traps to strengthen surveillance for new populations.

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With no way to defend themselves from the killer hornets capable of destroying entire colonies within hours, honey bees are vulnerable – and states across the U.S. are already fighting back to protect our ecosystems and agriculture.

If you find a yellow-legged hornet, do not try to destroy it or its nest yourself, as they are highly aggressive and dangerous.

Instead, safely take a photograph, note the exact location and immediately report it to your state department of agriculture or local authorities on the USDA website.

Large increase in tick bites reported at hospitals across the US as spring warmth kicks in

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 20:23:46 -0400

Nature lovers beware: government officials are warning of an early increase in hospital visits due to tick bites in the U.S. so far this year.

As millions of Americans welcome the more regular spring warmth, people flock to the great outdoors to spend time outside.

This shift in temperatures also brings out animals and insects, including a higher risk of tick bites, as officials have noticed an increase in hospital visits.

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According to the CDC, the highest risk of being bitten occurs in spring and summer, and adult females are most likely to bite humans.

Different tick species are found in different regions of the U.S., according to experts. Most tick populations are found outside, in shaded areas.

Since the start of 2026, 131 people have visited the hospital for tick bites, compared with the first three months of 2025, when 102 people did so, according to CDC data.

If bitten by a certain tick, pathogens can spread and make people and animals seriously ill.

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A common tick found in 20 U.S. states is the Asian Longhorned tick, not typically found in the western hemisphere, but was first reported in the country in 2017.

"With ongoing testing of ticks collected in the United States, it is likely that some ticks will be found to contain pathogens that can be harmful to people," a statement from the CDC said.

There are various tick species spread through different states and regions of the country. Each type of tick bite packs a different punch of pain, along with short and long-term effects.

SPIDERS THE SIZE OF A HUMAN HAND ARE SPREADING THROUGHOUT THE US

It is important to act quickly if you have been bitten and always take the necessary precautions before going outside to prevent ticks from latching onto your skin.

Taking a few extra safety precautions can help keep you and your family safe from ticks while spending more time outdoors this spring and summer:

THIS POTENTIALLY DEADLY, FLESH-EATING PARASITE IS GETTING CLOSER TO THE US

CDC experts suggest these actions if bitten by a tick:

This potentially deadly, flesh-eating parasite is getting closer to the US

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 17:42:56 -0400

A potentially deadly parasite that can infect livestock, pets and humans is less than 100 miles away from the Texas border and is inching closer to the U.S.

SPIDERS THE SIZE OF A HUMAN HAND ARE SPREADING THROUGHOUT THE US

The flesh-eating parasite, called the New World screwworm, was detected this month in the Mexican state of Nuevo León, just 90 miles away from the U.S. border. As of last year, the insect was still 400 miles away.

"The New World screwworm is not some distant problem," Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller said. "It is a direct and imminent threat to Texas, and we are treating it that way. This is a high-stakes situation for our ranchers, our livestock industry and our food supply, and we are moving aggressively to stay ahead of it."

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the New World screwworm is a species of parasitic fly that completes part of its lifecycle by feeding on the tissue or flesh of warm-blooded animals and people.

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This insect is attracted to the smell of wounds and body openings, including the nose, eyes, ears, mouth and genitals.

Once a female fly makes contact, it can lay 200 to 300 eggs in a wound or opening that can be as small as a tick bite. In some cases, the fly may lay up to 3,000 eggs during its 10 to 30-day lifespan.

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The eggs then hatch into maggots that burrow into the wound or opening and feed on the flesh. After about seven days of feeding, the larvae drop to the ground and eventually emerge as adult screwworm flies.

"The reality is the spread of the New World screwworm has not been successfully contained to date," Miller said. "That is a serious concern."

In 2023, Panama and Costa Rica identified an outbreak of the New World screwworm. Since then, all countries in Central America and Mexico have reported cases among animals and people. Before this outbreak, the spread of the insect had been controlled.

NEW SPECIES OF CATERPILLAR FOUND IN HAWAII CAMOUFLAGES ITSELF IN DEAD BUGS

As of this month, nearly 168,000 cases have been reported in animals and more than 1,700 cases in people, including one case involving a Maryland resident returning to the U.S. from El Salvador.

This was the first confirmed human case in the U.S. in years. The patient recovered, and no further spread has been identified.

The CDC said that most people who contract the New World screwworm experience symptoms such as feeling or seeing maggots in the skin, a foul-smelling odor from the site of infection and bleeding open sores.

But the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the CDC are working to minimize the spread.

SPRING STING: PORTUGUESE MAN O' WAR RETURNS TO GULF COAST BEACHES

Meanwhile, organizations around the country, including Clemson University, are working with other states to monitor its movement and prevent its spread should it enter the U.S.

As of April, the USDA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) broke ground on a new sterile fly production facility in Edinburg, Texas, to help fight the spread of the parasite.

This $750 million project will produce New World screwworm flies that will be released in target areas. Since the female screwworm can only mate once, mating with sterile males will result in eggs that do not hatch.

"Our mission at USACE is to deliver engineering solutions, with our partners, to secure our nation, strengthen our economy and reduce disaster risk," General William H. "Butch" Graham, USACE commanding general, said.

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Even with this increased preparedness, experts still recommend that people take preventive measures and report anything unusual.

"We are educating the public and asking them to report any suspicious findings," Michael Neault, director of Clemson Livestock-Poultry Health, said. "Also, it’s important for the public to understand that NWS is treatable and animals can make a full recovery if it is detected early."

Over a dozen injured in Colorado crash involving more than 75 cars amid snowy conditions

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 23:09:40 -0400

Interstate 70 has reopened in Colorado after at least 19 people were injured in a massive multi-vehicle crash involving more than 75 cars amid snowy conditions in Silverthorne on Tuesday.

HISTORIC WINTER STORM CHARGES ACROSS THE US, CAUSES SEVERAL MULTI-VEHICLE PILEUPS AMID DANGEROUS SNOW AND ICE

The crash happened in the eastbound lanes of I-70 and Highway 6, just east of the Eisenhower Tunnel, shortly after 3 p.m. local time.

According to Colorado State Patrol, injured drivers were taken to nearby hospitals with varying injuries. No deaths have been reported.

Authorities rerouted drivers over Loveland Pass. However, drivers approaching the Eisenhower Tunnel were turned around.

The Colorado Department of Transportation said winter driving conditions remain across parts of the I-70 mountain corridor.

Gov. Jared Polis posted to social media earlier this evening, expressing support for those affected.

"Our thoughts are with everyone impacted, and we are grateful to the first responders and state employees working quickly and safely in difficult conditions to help those impacted and get the road reopened," Polis said.

OVER 50 CARS, MULTIPLE SEMI-TRUCKS INVOLVED IN PILE-UP ON I-75 IN MICHIGAN AMID DANGEROUS WINTER STORM

This comes as much of the front range of the Rocky Mountains deals with a record-breaking snow drought after a notably dry winter.

According to the FOX Forecast Center, March and April have often been Colorado's snowiest months over the last 30 years.

Another shot of snow is expected for the Rockies beginning Friday afternoon. Parts of central Colorado could see 8–12 inches through Sunday.

Man dies after falling from boat as rough water conditions continue to impact Florida

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 18:24:43 -0400

ST. PETERSBURG, Flo. - A 63-year-old man died over the weekend after falling off a boat he was on with his family while visiting St. Petersburg, Florida.

Tony Le was reported missing Saturday morning after he fell into the water near channel marker 18.

HEROIC FATHER DROWNS AFTER RESCUING CHILDREN FROM DANGEROUS RIP CURRENT AT FLORIDA BEACH

According to the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to a call reporting the incident shortly after it occurred.

Investigators said Le had been boating with his family and was sitting at the back of the boat when he fell overboard.

Family members immediately turned the boat around and entered the water in an attempt to rescue him. Several witnesses also assisted in the search, but were unable to locate him.

Detectives said Le had underlying medical conditions and was wearing a life jacket when the boat launched, but it appears he removed it before entering the water.

SWIMMER DIES AMID HIGH RIP CURRENT RISK AS SPRING-BREAKERS FLOCK TO FLORIDA BEACHES

Search efforts were suspended overnight and resumed Sunday morning. The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office Dive Team later recovered Le’s body after multiple rescue dives. Officials said he was found approximately 19 feet below the surface.

Authorities believe the incident was accidental, but the investigation remains open.

The tragedy comes as many areas in Florida face an increased risk of rip currents, as thousands have flocked to the beaches for spring break.

Over the past few weeks, a few fatalities have been reported, and dozens of people have been rescued across the state, linked to dangerous water conditions.

RIP CURRENTS: WHAT ARE THEY, HOW TO SPOT THEM AND HOW TO SAVE YOURSELF FROM ONE

On April 1, a man died while rescuing his two children from a rip current in Juno Beach, Florida, while another swimmer died in Pompano Beach under similar circumstances.

Officials warn people to be especially cautious as Florida continues to experience rough water conditions.

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If caught in a rip current, swim parallel to shore toward more breaking waves or until you feel the current isn't pulling you away any longer. Once out of the current, change angles and swim directly to shore.

Emperor penguins declared endangered species amid the decline in sea ice

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 14:08:48 -0400

The emperor penguin has been reclassified from near threatened to endangered on the IUCN Red List after satellite data showed the species’ population has declined to around 20,000 adult birds.

Scientists warn that current projections suggest the population could be reduced to half by the 2080s.

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"Penguins are already among the most threatened birds on Earth," Martin Harper, CEO of BirdLife International, said. "The emperor penguin’s move to endangered is a stark warning that climate change is accelerating the extinction crisis before our eyes."

According to the IUCN, the primary driver of this decline is climate change in Antarctica. The rising temperatures are causing earlier break-up and loss of sea ice, which has reached record lows since 2016.

In order to sustain their population, the emperor penguins require sea ice that is fastened to the coastline to set up a habitat for their chicks during molting season, which is when the chicks are not waterproof.

If the ice breaks up too early, it can result in the death of the chicks.

"Early sea ice break-up in spring is already affecting colonies around the Antarctic, and further changes in sea ice will continue to affect their breeding, feeding and molting habitat," Dr Philip Trathan, member of the IUCN SSC Penguin Specialist Group who worked on the emperor penguin Red List assessment, said.

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"Emperor penguins are a sentinel species that tell us about our changing world and how well we are controlling greenhouse gas emissions that lead to climate change," he continued.

While it is challenging to link events like breeding colonies collapsing into the sea before the chicks can swim to population changes, climate models indicate emperor penguin populations will decline rapidly this century without dramatic reductions to greenhouse gas emissions.

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"These important findings should spur us into action across all sectors and levels of society to decisively address climate change," Dr. Grethel Aguilar, IUCN director general said. "The declines of the emperor penguin…on the IUCN Red List is a wake-up call to the realities of climate change."

Video: 5 Alaska fishermen rescued by US Coast Guard after running aground

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 13:58:15 -0400

JUNEAU, Alaska – A fishing vessel in Alaska encountered some serious trouble while on the water earlier this month, prompting the U.S. Coast Guard Arctic District to rescue five individuals.

A fishing vessel was traveling near Umnak Island, Alaska, before grounding and taking on water, according to a press release from the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG).

Around 4:45 a.m., Coast Guard watch standers were notified of a fishing crew that ran aground while traveling and was taking on water.

Immediately after, officials stated that they launched an MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter and an HC-130 Hercules airplane to locate the five men aboard the vessel.

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Around three hours later, after assistance from a good Samaritan vessel in the area, the fishermen were located and a helicopter team arrived later on.

Once the crew was located, first responders successfully dewatered the boat and stopped the flooding.

Video footage from the USCG shows officials utilizing a rescue basket to load and extract the stranded fishermen into the hovering helicopter.

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All five men had no injuries reported, but were transported to Dutch Harbor, where medical personnel awaited further evaluation.

Photos: Volunteer firefighters save an elderly fisherman in a dramatic rescue

Sun, 12 Apr 2026 15:47:15 -0400

EMSWORTH, Penn. - Firefighters rushed to rescue an injured fisherman trapped on a riverbank in Emsworth, Pennsylvania, on Saturday night.

VIDEO: FIREFIGHTERS RESCUE MAN FROM SUBMERGED CAR WHILE INTENSE NOR'EASTER SLAMS NORTH CAROLINA

The Emsworth Volunteer Fire Company said officials received a call around 9:45 p.m. reporting an elderly man stuck on the riverbank near the Emsworth Lock and Dam.

At the time, Emsworth fire crews were covering for the Cochran Hose Company-Sewickley Fire Department while they attended their 150th anniversary ceremony and dinner.

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When responders arrived at the scene, they found the fisherman approximately 20 feet down a hillside on rocky terrain. Command requested additional resources to help reach the trapped man, and Norfolk Southern trains were temporarily stopped during the rescue operation.

When Station 258 arrived, crews set up a rope system and used a stokes basket to lift the man to safety.

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Rescue teams were able to bring the man to level ground within 25 minutes of dispatch and then transferred him to Northwest EMS for medical care.

Experts say millions of spotted lanternflies could plague New York City this year

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 23:01:36 -0400

The annoying, now-annual hatching of spotted lanternflies is less than a month away, and experts warn there could be millions across New York City this year.

According to New York’s Department of Agriculture, this past winter wasn’t cold enough to reduce the insect’s population. As a result, officials expect the species to surge again this season.

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"Predicting the spotted lanternfly population for the coming season is extremely difficult, as the research community continues to work on pinpointing what factors influence the population from year to year," Jola Szubielzki, director of public information at the Department of Agriculture, said. "We do know that winter temperatures downstate were not cold enough for long enough to kill off eggs that overwintered."

The insect, that looks like a cross between a moth and a ladybug, is native to Asia and was first discovered in the U.S. in Pennsylvania in 2014.

Now, the lanternfly has been spotted in more than 21 states, including New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Virginia and Ohio, and has become a persistent nuisance in New York City each summer since 2020.

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"Cities tend to have milder winters, creating favorable conditions for species that otherwise would only be able to live in warmer climates," Kristen Winchell, an assistant professor of biology at New York University, said in a press release.

Officials say these bugs will continue to spread, especially as they continue to hitchhike by laying egg masses on vehicles, trains, shipping materials and outdoor surfaces, according to the Virginia Department of Agriculture.

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"Cities are also highly connected places where trade happens, and organisms may end up on shipments in planes or boats traveling between cities," Winchell said. "Finally, urban environments aren’t very friendly to a lot of native species, so you have a degraded ecological community that creates opportunities for new species to come in."

Each year, female lanternflies typically lay one or two egg masses, each containing about 30 to 60 eggs. They cover them with a creamy, mud-like substance that acts as camouflage to protect the egg sacs, according to Cornell University.

The eggs are laid in the fall and hatch in the spring, with young nymphs emerging as early as May and maturing into adults later in the summer.

In a 2024 study from New York University, researchers found that the bugs are living up to five months longer than they did when they first arrived, due to the climate of urban environments.

"This is important because a lengthening of the active period each year means they have more time to reproduce and spread," Winchell said.

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While lanternflies don’t bite or sting and aren’t directly harmful to humans or pets, they do pose a serious threat to agriculture.

The insects feed by sucking sap from plants, weakening trees and crops like grapes, apples and hops. They also leave behind a sticky substance known as honeydew, which promotes the growth of mold.

Officials warn that the economic impact of these invasive species could be significant.

Residents are encouraged to take immediate steps to help contain the spread, including using pesticides, removing egg masses and participating in the stomp-it campaigns.

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"Vigilance and proactive control methods, such as egg mass scraping, are still needed, even during the early spring months," Szubielzki said.