Christmas tree drought hits hard in Midwest
Tree farmers have been hit hard by drought
Drought In America
Groom bleeds to death at his own wedding in Brazil
Newlywed tripped and cut himself when an empty glass that was in his pocket shattered
Iowa scientists: Climate change caused the drought
More than 130 Iowa college and university scientists warned that without changes, Iowans will face more extreme weather
Drought produces pumpkin boom
Hot, dry conditions created perfect conditions for pumpkin farming
Freeze, drought take bite out of fall tourism
Business owners scramble after extreme weather leaves corn too short for mazes, orchards lacking apples and fall foliage muted
Grass theft on the rise amid stubborn drought
Drought-affected ranchers steal hay and leave gates open or cut fences to let cattle graze on neighbors' greener pastures
Bacon shortage "baloney," but prices to rise
The economics of the current drought are likely to nose up prices for bacon and other pork products next year by as much as 10 percent
Drought causing problems for homeowners
Drought-related damage reported in 40 states, repair costs could top $1 billion, experts say
Drought maintains grip on lower 48 states
Portion of U.S. in extreme or exceptional drought edged up last week, U.S. Drought Monitor says
Drought slowing economic growth
Government estimates drought of 2012 cost economy $12 billion last spring
Stalled legislation keeping water from Ark. farms
Money to complete a vital network of irrigation trenches through drought-stricken Arkansas farms is attached to legislation that's been stuck in Congress for nearly three years. Jim Axelrod reports.
Drought forces juggling of Okla. water distribution
The Great Drought of 2012 is causing a juggling act of water distribution in eastern Oklahoma. Jim Axelrod speaks with Col. Michael Teague - the man doing the all the juggling.
Drought dries up 200 miles of Arkansas River
Farmers in Kansas depend on water from the Arkansas River to irrigate their crops. Jim Axelrod reports the devastating drought has dried up 200 miles of the river leaving no water to divert causing profits to be cut in half.
Colo. using 19th century claims to decide water shortage disputes
Gary Hanks controls the water supply for two dozen Colorado ranches and farms. His job has been difficult this year following the country's devastating drought. Jim Axelrod reports the water commissioner uses a system of inherited claims reaching back to the 19th century to decide who gets water first.
Rain brings hope for drought-suffering farmers
A strong mix of rain and wind has been welcome relief for farmers in the drought-ridden Mississippi River Valley, although Dean Reynolds reports that residents are hoping for even more precipitation in the region.
TS Isaac will ease but not end droguht
Isaac's current path takes it right up the Mississippi River, where it will relieve many, but not all, drought-stricken areas
Bright side of the drought: fruit
The Great Drought of 2012 has dried up business for many farmers. But as Margaret Brennan reports, the heat has been "sweet" for fruit farmers.
Drought intensifies in key farming states
Storms that eased parched conditions haven't helped growers and ranchers in Kansas or Nebraska, drought monitor map shows
Farmers turn from corn to drought-friendly sorghum
Sorghum needs only a third as much water as corn and retains moisture longer, enticing farmers in Nebraska and elsewhere to shift
Drought taking toll on corn crops, and prices
Agriculture Dept. says U.S. corn growers could end up with lowest average yield in 17 years, with wide-ranging effects for farmers, cattle ranchers and consumers
Drought's effects trickle down to other farmers
Hay prices have gone up 50 percent, but others dependent on the product - like dairy farmers - can't absorb the higher costs
Food prices expected to rise as drought continues
Dwindling corn crop means higher feed prices for dairy and livestock farmers -- and in turn consumers; Prices could rise 10% in coming months
Deere income up, but well short of expectations
While net income rose 11 percent, company was hit hard by a weakening global economy and prolonged drought in the U.S.
Amid drought, hummingbirds get some human help
Millions of migratory birds are on the move and encountering fewer wildflowers due to fires, drought, and climate change
Some midwesterners find faucets running dry
Drought and lack of running water in homes in Nebraska, Missouri, Kansas and Indiana makes for expensive headache
Science
"Space gum" discovered in asteroid Bennu samples, NASA reveals
Samples collected from the asteroid Bennu are continuing the shed light on the origins of the solar system and how life developed on Earth, scientists say.
CEO of genetics firm says parents have a right to choose unborn child's traits
Kian Sadeghi, the 25-year-old founder and CEO at Nucleus Genomics, tells "CBS Mornings" that parents have every right to select the qualities and traits they desire in their child.
Sick ants invite self-sacrifice to save colony: "Come and kill me"
Ant colonies act as one "super-organism" which works to ensure the survival of all, according to a team of scientists.
Mystery owner of ancient foot found in Africa identified, scientists say
The discovery could cast some doubt on the status of Lucy's species as the direct ancestor of Homo sapiens.
Most dogs have wolf DNA. These breeds have more than others.
Wolf DNA seems to have influenced the size, smelling power and even personality of modern dog breeds, scientists said.
China launches craft to bring 3 stranded astronauts back from space station
China launched the Shenzhou 22 spacecraft Tuesday to bring three stranded astronauts back from China's space station sometime next year.
Powering our appetite for protein
Proteins, whether from whey, plants or animals, are essential for building muscle. Last year, approximately 71% of consumers identified protein as the nutrient they most frequently try to eat. That's an appetite corporate America is more than happy to feed – even though protein often doesn't taste very good. Lee Cowan looks at how companies like General Mills are developing protein-fueled products, and how Americans may be consuming more protein than they need.
Man uses brain implant to control iPad
A new device lets users control an iPad just by thinking. For the first time ever, a person with ALS, a disease that attacks the nervous system, used a brain implant to navigate an Apple device. CBS News national consumer correspondent Ash-har Quraishi spoke with the team behind the groundbreaking technology.
NASA releases close-up pictures of interstellar comet making a rare flyby
The rare interstellar comet, also known as 3I/ATLAS, was first discovered in July and has been photographed several times.
William Shatner and Neil deGrasse Tyson: When stars collide
When the "Star Trek" actor and America's favorite astrophysicist share the stage, sparks can fly on an astronomical level. They talk about their bromance built on an appreciation of science and curiosity.
William Shatner and Neil deGrasse Tyson: Star power
When "Star Trek" legend William Shatner and America's favorite astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson share the stage, sparks can fly on an astronomical level. They talk with Luke Burbank about their bromance built on an appreciation of science; the two-man show ("The Universe Is Absurd!") that grew out of a trip to the South Pole; and how curiosity about the cosmos can help keep one young.
"White nose syndrome" killing millions of bats
A deadly fungal disease called "white nose syndrome" is sweeping across North America, wiping out millions of bats. Dave Malkoff goes underground in North Carolina as scientists race to save these vital creatures.
Study on breast cancer and birth control shows how science can be distorted
The study sought to answer questions about how breast cancer risk differs by type of hormonal contraceptive. Doctors say the results won't change how they counsel patients.
World's largest-known spider's web discovered in cave in Greece
The behavior, which had never been observed before, stunned scientists as, typically, the larger house spider would prey on its smaller neighbor.
Scientists discover new "lucifer" bee with devil-like horns
Kit Prendergast discovered the bee while surveying a critically endangered wildflower and was drawn to the insect's unique appearance.
U.S.
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Appeals court lets Trump admin. keep National Guard deployed in D.C. for now
A U.S. District Court decision to end the deployment of National Guard members to Washington, D.C., is now on hold.
4 killed in latest strike on alleged drug boat, Pentagon says
At least 87 people have been killed since the vessel strikes began in early September.
Grand jury refuses to re-indict Letitia James
Federal prosecutors on Thursday presented an indictment of New York Attorney General Letitia James to a grand jury in Norfolk, Virginia.
Supreme Court allows Texas GOP to use new redistricted map for now
Texas approved a new congressional map this summer after Trump urged state GOP lawmakers to craft new House district lines to help Republicans hold onto their majority in the 2026 midterms.
This week on "Sunday Morning" (Dec. 7)
A look at the features for this week's broadcast of the Emmy-winning program, hosted by Jane Pauley.
MoneyWatch
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These U.S. cities have seen the biggest rent increases since 2020
Rents in the 50 largest cities have surged by hundreds of dollars per month over the last five years, a LendingTree analysis found.
Employers have cut 1.1 million jobs this year. Here's why.
Job cuts so far this year are at their highest levels since 2020, new report says.
Trump thinks tariff revenue could replace income taxes. Is that possible?
President Trump suggested Americans won't have to pay personal income taxes "in the not-too-distant future" because of rising U.S. tariffs.
Trump moves to roll back fuel economy standards set under Biden
The Trump administration proposed rules that would weaken fuel economy standards for vehicles set under President Biden in 2024.
CEO of genetics firm says parents have a right to choose unborn child's traits
Kian Sadeghi, the 25-year-old founder and CEO at Nucleus Genomics, tells "CBS Mornings" that parents have every right to select the qualities and traits they desire in their child.
Politics
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Jasmine Crockett called Texas Senate race contenders as she weighs jumping into fray
As intrigue grows over whether Texas Democratic Rep. Jasmine Crockett plans to announce a U.S. Senate campaign next week, she confirmed to CBS News she's spoken with would-be opponents.
Appeals court lets Trump admin. keep National Guard deployed in D.C. for now
A U.S. District Court decision to end the deployment of National Guard members to Washington, D.C., is now on hold.
Operations against Houthis played into Truman Strike Group accidents, Navy finds
Investigations released by the Navy into accidents involving the Truman Carrier Strike Group recommended ensuring processes are followed even when faced with adversity.
4 killed in latest strike on alleged drug boat, Pentagon says
At least 87 people have been killed since the vessel strikes began in early September.
ICE begins surge in Minnesota as Trump pushes for crackdown on Somali immigrants
ICE began enhanced operations in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area this week, as President Trump rails against Somali people in Minnesota.
HealthWatch
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Could pets be next for weight loss drugs? Here's what to know about a study.
A clinical study into weight loss drugs for pets just launched, with results from the trial expected by next summer.
CDC panel postpones vote on hepatitis B vaccine for newborns
The CDC's vaccine advisory panel meets Thursday and Friday to discuss recommendations for the hepatitis B vaccine and the schedule of childhood shots.
12 ex-FDA leaders criticize claims made by agency's current vaccine chief
The former officials said the FDA's plans to revamp how certain life-saving vaccines are handled would "disadvantage the people the FDA exists to protect, including millions of Americans at high risk from serious infections."
CEO of genetics firm says parents have a right to choose unborn child's traits
Kian Sadeghi, the 25-year-old founder and CEO at Nucleus Genomics, tells "CBS Mornings" that parents have every right to select the qualities and traits they desire in their child.
How to avoid holiday stress
The holiday season can be a wonderful, but also stressful time – filled with unrealistic expectations. A recent poll found 41% of adults anticipate more holiday stress this year. Psychiatrist Dr. Sue Varma has tips to unwind during the holidays.
World
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Operations against Houthis played into Truman Strike Group accidents, Navy finds
Investigations released by the Navy into accidents involving the Truman Carrier Strike Group recommended ensuring processes are followed even when faced with adversity.
4 killed in latest strike on alleged drug boat, Pentagon says
At least 87 people have been killed since the vessel strikes began in early September.
U.K. and Norway sign pact to "hunt Russian submarines" in North Atlantic
The United Kingdom and Norway have signed a pact to create a naval alliance in the North Atlantic, aimed at protecting undersea cables and hunting Russian submarines.
Inside a Ukrainian drone pilot training facility
The facility teaches both civilians and military personnel the skills to fly drones and hit targets.
Lawmakers see video of boat strike, say admiral testified there was no kill order
"What I saw in that room was one of the most troubling things I've seen in my time in public service," Democratic Rep. Jim Himes said.
Entertainment
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Entertainment
Lucy Liu talks new movie, "Rosemead"
Lucy Liu talks about starring in and producing the movie "Rosemead," why she says the story resonates universally and reflecting on personal experiences for the film.
Steve Cropper, acclaimed guitarist for Booker T. and the M.G.'s, dies at 84
Steve Cropper co-wrote several classics, including "(Sittin' on) the Dock of the Bay," "Green Onions" and "In the Midnight Hour."
Kaytranada on rise to fame and his new album
Grammy winning DJ and producer Kaytranada has become one of the most influential voices in dance and electronic music, and has collaborated with top artists. He spoke with "CBS Mornings" about his latest album, touring and his journey in music.
Richie Moriarty talks 5th season of "Ghosts"
Actor and comedian Richie Moriarty talks with "CBS Mornings" about the fifth season of the comedy series "Ghosts," what's next for his character and how the cast has bonded.
At home with Architectural Digest
For more than a century, the pages of Architectural Digest magazine have captured not only timeless designs but also the spirit of their subjects' homes. Their distillation of private spaces is featured in a new book, "AD at Home: Architectural Digest." Serena Altschul talks with editor Amy Astley about the magazine's treatments; and with actor Liev Schreiber and designer Marc Jacobs about what it means to open up one's living space to the magazine's photographers.
Technology
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Technology
Politico: Trump admin. looks to robotics
Leaders in the robotics industry say that to strengthen AI, companies also need a plan for robots. The White House appears to be listening. Yasmin Khorram, economic policy reporter for Politico, joins CBS News to discuss her article on the topic.
Google's top search trends in 2025
Google has released its list of the 2025 top search trends. Robert Ferrera, a Google Trends expert, joins CBS News with more.
How AI powered robots are helping small farms
From labor shortages to environmental impacts, farmers are looking to AI to help revolutionize the agriculture industry. One California startup, Farm-ng, is tapping into the power of AI and robotics to perform a wide range of tasks, including seeding, weeding and harvesting.
India revokes order for phone makers to install security app amid uproar
India's government, amid an uproar over privacy, has revoked an order quietly issued to smartphone makers to pre-install a state-run security app.
OpenAI responding to Google's moves: WSJ
OpenAI has declared a "code red" as Google threatens to unseat the AI industry's early leader, according to the Wall Street Journal. Technology journalist Jacob Ward joins CBS News to discuss.
Science
More Science
"Space gum" discovered in asteroid Bennu samples, NASA reveals
Samples collected from the asteroid Bennu are continuing the shed light on the origins of the solar system and how life developed on Earth, scientists say.
CEO of genetics firm says parents have a right to choose unborn child's traits
Kian Sadeghi, the 25-year-old founder and CEO at Nucleus Genomics, tells "CBS Mornings" that parents have every right to select the qualities and traits they desire in their child.
Sick ants invite self-sacrifice to save colony: "Come and kill me"
Ant colonies act as one "super-organism" which works to ensure the survival of all, according to a team of scientists.
Mystery owner of ancient foot found in Africa identified, scientists say
The discovery could cast some doubt on the status of Lucy's species as the direct ancestor of Homo sapiens.
Most dogs have wolf DNA. These breeds have more than others.
Wolf DNA seems to have influenced the size, smelling power and even personality of modern dog breeds, scientists said.
Crime
More Crime
Crime
Listen to 911 call from Luigi Mangione arrest
Newly unsealed evidence sheds light on Luigi Mangione's arrest at a Pennsylvania McDonald's. CBS News legal reporter Katrina Kaufman has the details.
New details in Mangione pretrial hearing
Luigi Mangione's pretrial hearing continued on Thursday, one year after UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson was killed. CBS News legal reporter Katrina Kaufman has more.
Suspect arrested in D.C. pipe bomb case
A suspect is in custody nearly five years after two pipe bombs were planted in Washington, D.C., the night before the Jan. 6 Capitol riot. Attorney General Pam Bondi said 30-year-old Brian Cole Jr. was arrested in Virginia on Thursday morning. CBS News' Anna Schecter has more.
What we know about 2021 D.C. pipe bomb suspect
Federal authorities on Thursday arrested a suspect in the case of two pipe bombs placed outside the Democratic and Republican National Committee headquarters the night before the Jan. 6th Capitol riot. CBS News senior White House reporter Jennifer Jacobs has the details.
Day 3 of Luigi Mangione pretrial hearing
Luigi Mangione's pretrial hearing continued Thursday in New York. CBS News' Anna Schecter has the details.
Space
More Space
"Space gum" discovered in asteroid Bennu samples, NASA reveals
Samples collected from the asteroid Bennu are continuing the shed light on the origins of the solar system and how life developed on Earth, scientists say.
Air Force approves SpaceX launch pad expansion
The U.S. Air Force has approved SpaceX's plan to redevelop a historic launch pad at Cape Canaveral. CBS News correspondent Mark Strassmann reports.
Geomagnetic storm watch issued after powerful solar flare
Solar flares and other activity can disrupt radio communications, power grids and navigation signals, according to NASA.
Scientists think they've detected lightning on Mars: "Missing piece of the puzzle"
Researchers have documented 55 instances of "mini lightning" over two Martian years by eavesdropping on the whirling wind recorded by NASA's Perseverance rover.
Russia sends a NASA astronaut, 2 cosmonauts, up to the space station
The new space station crew includes American Chris Williams, who holds a Ph.D. in astronomy and is a board-certified medical physicist at Harvard Medical School.
Latest Galleries
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Notable Deaths in 2025
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
The life & near death of prizefighter Christy Salters-Martin
Christy Salters-Martin dominated in the boxing ring but faced her toughest challenger at home.
Robert Redford 1936-2025
A retrospective look at the actor, director, producer, and founder of the Sundance Institute.
Timeline: The disappearance of George Smith
Family seeks answers in death of newlywed who disappeared in 2005 while on Mediterranean honeymoon cruise.
Who is Alix Tichelman?
Meet the tattooed beauty charged in the death of Google executive Forrest Hayes.
Latest CBS News Videos
More Latest CBS News Videos
Latest CBS News Videos
Luigi Mangione arrest video played in court
On the one-year mark of the fatal shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson on a New York City sidewalk, a hearing was held to determine what evidence is admissible in the trial of his accused killer, Luigi Mangione. Alice Gainer reports.
FBI arrests suspect in 2021 D.C. pipe bomb case
A northern Virginia man was arrested and accused of placing two pipe bombs outside the Democratic National Committee and Republican National Committee headquarters on the eve of the Capitol riot on Jan. 6, 2021. Scott MacFarlane has details.
Arctic blast grips U.S. as temperatures plummet
An early season Arctic blast sent shivers through the Midwest and Northeast as temperatures tumbled far below normal. Lana Zak reports and Lonnie Quinn has the forecast.
$1.6 million raised for elderly man still working
For most of his life, Ed Bambas worked toward his American dream. But in 2019, at 82, he found himself doing what most retirees never imagine: going back to work. That was, until a stranger approached him with a question. Tom Hanson has the story.
White House Christmases of past, present
President Trump and first lady Melania Trump lit the national Christmas tree on Thursday. Melania's White House Christmas theme this year is "Home Is Where the Heart Is." White House expert Jennifer Pickens joins CBS News to discuss.