October 2026
Botched Altadena evacuations, dysfunction in Pacific Palisades: Long-awaited fire investigation identifies missteps
The report provides the most frank and in-depth review of the Eaton and Palisades fires, and points out multiple shortcomings in governmental planning and response.
California moves to limit utility profits and tap more power from homes
One of several bills signed this week is a law to advance the use of virtual power plants to make greater use of clean energy at home.
Native tribes denied greater say in water decisions with Newsom veto
Gov. Gavin Newsom has vetoed a bill that would have given Native tribes greater say on decisions about water. One tribal leader said it shows that the governor “doesn’t care about tribes.”
A new satellite to track a powerful climate change driver launches from Vandenberg
On Thursday a Pasadena-based non-profit launched its second satellite tuned to spotting a powerful climate pollutant on a SpaceX rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base in Lompoc.
New bill in Congress seeks to investigate toxic dump off California coast
The bill was prompted by Los Angeles Times reporting that revealed as many as half a million barrels of toxic waste had been dumped into the ocean off the coast of Southern California.
A California river has dried up. Critics say the state should do more to protect its salmon
Portions of Northern California’s Scott River have dried up. Critics say state regulators should do more to keep the river flowing for salmon.
Strange visitors and starving pups: What El Niño means for California’s coast
What warmer waters mean for sea lions, kelp forests and toxic algae blooms
Millions facing flood risks lack coverage as federal insurance costs climb
Only 2.4% of U.S. properties have federal flood insurance, despite 8.4% facing severe or extreme risk — a coverage gap widening as climate change intensifies flooding.
Want solar but don’t own a roof? California just legalized plug-in panels, no permission required
A new California law legalizes the plug-in solar panels that are becoming popular in other states and in Europe.