U.S. wildfires were larger, more frequent and more widespread in last 20 years
Wildfires are larger, more frequent and more widespread in the last 20 years than they have been before.
California Wildfires
Dad-daughter team gives RVs to people who lost homes in wildfires
For the last three years, Woody Faircloth and his 9-year-old daughter Luna have been taking special trips from Colorado to deliver RVs to families who've lost homes in California's wildfires.
12/7: CBS Evening News
At least 330,000 evacuated as wildfires spread; Remembering Otis Redding's biggest hit 50 years later
CBS Evening News, September 8, 2020
Rochester police chief steps down following Daniel Prude's death; Nonprofit provides meals to people facing food insecurity in Texas during pandemic.
Biden tours the West Coast ahead of California recall election
President Biden made his first visit to the West Coast on Monday since taking office. He's scheduled to campaign on behalf of California Governor Gavin Newsom in Long Beach ahead of Tuesday's governor recall election. CBS News chief White House correspondent Nancy Cordes, USA Today White House correspondent Courtney Subramanian, and Politico congressional reporter Nicholas Wu join CBSN's "Red & Blue" anchor Elaine Quijano with the details, plus the latest on the Afghanistan hearings and the battle in Congress over government spending.
Flood threat for Gulf, wildfires in West
Tropical Storm Nicholas is taking aim at Louisiana and Texas, which are still recovering from previous storms. Meanwhile, President Biden is visiting several western states hit hard by wildfires. CBS News meteorologist and climate specialist Jeff Berardelli joins CBSN's Tanya Rivero with the latest on the forecast.
U.S. records hottest summer, NOAA says
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration released a report showing the U.S. had the hottest summer on record, topping the 1936 Dust Bowl. It also showed the country experienced an abnormal amount of extreme weather events. CBS News meteorologist and climate specialist Jeff Berardelli joined CBSN's Lana Zak to break it down.
Caldor Fire closes in on Lake Tahoe
Fire crews continue working to try to stop flames from engulfing the area surrounding Lake Tahoe. Residents have evacuated South Lake Tahoe and CBS News correspondent Carter Evans is there with the latest details.
High winds increase threat from Caldor Fire
As the Caldor Fire threatens the Lake Tahoe area, thousands of people in both California and Nevada are under evacuation orders. CBS News correspondent Carter Evans joined CBSN with the latest from South Lake Tahoe, which is almost empty during what would normally be a busy tourism season.
Caldor Fire nears South Lake Tahoe
Parts of Northern California and Nevada are under a state of emergency as the Caldor Fire approaches South Lake Tahoe. Reporter Rachel Wulff of CBS Sacramento station KOVR joined CBSN's Tanya Rivero with the latest on the evacuation and firefighting efforts.
Caldor wildfire expected to grow
Fire officials in California are preparing for the Caldor fire to grow with high winds expected this weekend. KOVR reporter Laura Haefeli gives an update on the evacuation efforts. Freelance journalist Daliah Singer spoke with CBSN's Lana Zak about growing concerns about firefighter fatigue.
Documentary filmmaker on how to battle a fire crisis
The "Bring Your Own Brigade" documentary, which is streaming Friday on CBSN, explores the 2018 Camp Fire and the global fire crisis that is threatening the planet. Fire historian Stephen Pyne, who is featured in the documentary, joins CBSN to discuss the causes of the fire crisis and what the solutions might be.
How Californians feel about wildfire response
California is dealing with the massive Dixie Fire, fallout from climate change and a surge in COVID cases. All of this comes as Governor Gavin Newsom faces a recall election. CBS News elections and survey's director Anthony Salvonota joined CBSN's Elaine Quijano to discuss the findings of a new CBS News poll examining how Californians feel about Newsom's response to these crises.
California's vaccinated frustrated with unvaccinated
According to a CBS News poll, people in California overwhelmingly say the state's recent rise in COVID-19 cases was preventable if more people had gotten vaccinated and taken more precautions. CBS news elections and surveys director Anthony Salvanto joined CBSN to discuss the recent polling.
Wildfires causing health risks across U.S.
This summer's wildfires are sending clouds of pollutants across the United States. Dr. Reza Ronaghi, an interventional pulmonologist at UCLA Health, joins CBSN to discuss the potential health impacts for people from coast to coast.
Deadly heat in U.S. and Mediterranean fueling wildfires
As the U.S. braces for more heat waves, the Mediterranean is also grappling with record-high temperatures and wildfires. CBS News' Meg Oliver reports on the dangers of extreme heat. Then, CBS News meteorologist and climate specialist Jeff Berardelli joins CBSN's Michael George to explain the link between climate change and these global disasters.
Dixie Fire becomes single largest wildfire in California's history
The Dixie Fire in Northern California has become the single largest wildfire in the state's history. The fire has grown to more than 500,000 acres and officials say thousands of structures remain threatened. Tom Harbour, chief fire officer for Cornea, a data service for disaster planning, response and recovery, joins CBSN's Elaine Quijano to discuss how the U.S. can better prepare for these incidents.
Extreme weather signals worsening climate crisis
"I've never seen anything like this," CBS News meteorologist and climate specialist Jeff Berardelli says of the array of climate-related disasters happening around the world. He joins CBSN's Lana Zak to discuss the significance of droughts, heat waves, fires and flooding that are hitting various parts of the globe this summer.
Major fires burning in 10 Western states
More than ten thousand firefighters are battling blazes throughout one-fifth of the country. And while some states will see monsoon moisture later this week, not all regions will be so lucky. CBS News correspondent Lilia Luciano reports from California and CBS News meteorologist and climate specialist Jeff Berardelli joins CBSN for the latest weather forecast.
Heat wave and drought spark wildfires
The extreme heat and historic drought in the West is driving what is expected to be a record-breaking wildfire season. California officials say more than twice the number of acres have burned so far this year than had burned by this point last year. CBS News correspondent Lilia Luciano reports and CBS News meteorologist and climate specialist Jeff Berardelli joins CBSN for the forecast.
"Critical" fire weather conditions expected in the West
While the central Plains and Southeast brace for severe thunderstorm threats and flash flooding, the West is facing dangerous wildfire conditions. CBS News weather producer David Parkinson joins CBSN's Elaine Quijano with his forecast.
Fire fundraiser
A firefighter was killed Thursday battling the Thomas fire in California, which has become the fourth-largest fire in the state's history. Amy Johnson from CBS station KCBS in Los Angeles reports from a fundraiser for victims of the wildfires.
Geologist for Congress?
Geologist Jess Phoenix is running as a democrat in California's 25th Congressional District race. She spoke Monday evening to CBSN's Elaine Quijano about why she wants to run now.
Wildfire update
California Gov. Jerry Brown provided an update on the dangerous wildfires threatening Southern California on Saturday. Brown said climate change played a role in the fire's' intensity, and urged residents near affected areas to enable phone alerts so they can pack up and evacuate quickly if necessary. Watch his remarks.
Preventing wildfire damage
Six wildfires burning across California have destroyed over 700 structures. In an op-ed for the Los Angeles Times, Rick Halsey examined how better city planning could have prevented damage and devastation from wildfires. Halsey joined CBSN to explain more.
Trump signs funding bill to end shutdown after package clears House
The House on Tuesday voted 217 to 214 to fund major parts of the government and end the partial shutdown.
Ransom note being investigated in Nancy Guthrie's disappearance, sheriff says
The sheriff says the note was sent to a local Arizona news station, which agreed not to report on it, following the disappearance of "Today" show co-host Savannah Guthrie's mother, Nancy Guthrie.
Trump suggests Republicans should nationalize voting. Here's what to know.
President Trump has continued to claim without evidence that there is widespread fraud in U.S. elections.
Watchdog shares whistleblower complaint involving Gabbard with Congress after delay
The complaint was closed administratively by the intelligence community inspector general's office in June 2025, under prior leadership, watchdog says.
Top Minnesota corrections official questions when immigration agencies will draw down forces
In the week-and-a-half since federal immigration agents fatally shot a man in Minnesota, the state's top corrections official told CBS News it's not clear when the government will start drawing down forces.
Clintons will testify in Epstein probe after contempt threat, House panel says
Hillary Clinton will appear for a deposition on Feb. 26, while former President Bill Clinton will appear on Feb. 27, according to the House Oversight Committee.
Blood found inside home of Savannah Guthrie's mother, source says
Investigators are combing through the house of "Today" show co-host Savannah Guthrie's mother, Nancy, in search of clues to the 84-year-old's disappearance.
Judge skeptical of Pentagon's efforts to punish Sen. Kelly over "illegal orders" video
A federal judge expressed skepticism over the Pentagon's effort to downgrade the pay and rank of Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly after he urged service members not to follow unlawful military orders.
NASA hopes to fix Artemis II moon rocket leak with on-pad repair
NASA plans to test the planned leak repair with a second dress rehearsal fueling test later this month.
U.S.
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Penny the Doberman pinscher wins best in show at Westminster Dog Show
A Doberman pinscher named Penny won best in show at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.
Ransom note being investigated in Nancy Guthrie's disappearance, sheriff says
The sheriff says the note was sent to a local Arizona news station, which agreed not to report on it, following the disappearance of "Today" show co-host Savannah Guthrie's mother, Nancy Guthrie.
Judge restricts use of tear gas, projectile munitions at Portland protests
The ruling comes just days after federal agents launched tear gas at a crowd of demonstrators, including young children, that local officials described as peaceful.
Power outages collide with boil-water advisories after winter storm
In Mississippi, more than 36,000 homes and businesses have now gone a second week without electricity after a historic winter storm.
Sen. Mitch McConnell hospitalized with "flu-like symptoms"
A spokesman for Sen. Mitch McConnell said the Kentucky Republican's "prognosis is positive."
MoneyWatch
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More companies are pointing to AI as they lay off employees
Although economists have generally downplayed the impact of artificial intelligence on jobs, some employers are highlighting their adoption of AI.
SBA shuts out non-U.S. citizens from its main lending program
Starting March 1, the SBA will no longer guarantee loans for small businesses owned by foreign nationals, including green card holders.
PepsiCo cuts prices of Cheetos, Doritos and other snacks
PepsiCo said the price cuts are aimed at making its products more affordable as consumers struggle with affordability.
Disney names parks chief Josh D'Amaro to succeed CEO Bob Iger
Josh D'Amaro, who oversees Disney theme parks and dozens of resort hotels worldwide, will become the next Disney CEO.
Consumer Reports' top 10 vehicles for 2026 — see which cars made the list
For the first time, the top 10 cars on Consumer Reports' annual list of best new vehicles also include electric or hybrid models.
Politics
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Top Minnesota corrections official questions when immigration agencies will draw down forces
In the week-and-a-half since federal immigration agents fatally shot a man in Minnesota, the state's top corrections official told CBS News it's not clear when the government will start drawing down forces.
Judge restricts use of tear gas, projectile munitions at Portland protests
The ruling comes just days after federal agents launched tear gas at a crowd of demonstrators, including young children, that local officials described as peaceful.
Sen. Mitch McConnell hospitalized with "flu-like symptoms"
A spokesman for Sen. Mitch McConnell said the Kentucky Republican's "prognosis is positive."
Judge skeptical of Pentagon's efforts to punish Sen. Kelly over "illegal orders" video
A federal judge expressed skepticism over the Pentagon's effort to downgrade the pay and rank of Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly after he urged service members not to follow unlawful military orders.
Trump suggests Republicans should nationalize voting
President Trump has continued to claim without evidence that there is widespread fraud in U.S. elections.
HealthWatch
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Officials warn against drinking raw milk after baby dies from listeria
The New Mexico Department of Health said officials believe the baby contracted listeria after their mother drank raw milk during pregnancy.
5 ways to find affordable care without health insurance
Many Americans are expected to lose ACA or Medicaid coverage in the coming months and years, but doctors and researchers say there are still ways to find affordable care.
When health insurance costs more than the mortgage
As health care costs skyrocket and federal lawmakers pull back help on ACA insurance premiums, more middle-income families are facing tough choices on health care.
Extended Interview: Mel Robbins
In this web exclusive, author and podcaster Mel Robbins talks with Norah O'Donnell about "The Let Them Theory."
Book excerpt: "The Let Them Theory" by Mel Robbins
In her latest bestseller, the motivational speaker discusses how personal growth is only possible when you stop pouring energy into things you cannot control – which includes changing other people.
World
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Boat crew tosses 115 kilos of cocaine in Pacific while fleeing Colombian navy
The seizure was announced on the same day that Colombian President Gustavo Petro met with President Trump at the White House.
Russia hammers Ukraine on eve of peace talks
A day before Russian, Ukrainian and U.S. teams meet to talk peace, Putin's forces pounded Ukraine's energy infrastructure with dozens of drones and missiles.
U.S. shoots down Iranian drone that approached aircraft carrier, military says
U.S. Central Command said the drone "aggressively" approached the USS Abraham Lincoln as it was crossing through the Arabian Sea.
As Iran and the U.S. eye talks, a protester asks Trump to "keep his word"
As Iran declares willingness to negotiate with the U.S., a woman who joined the recent protests says Iranians want their leaders out, and they want the U.S. to help.
Teen from Alabama among 3 junior hockey players killed in Canada crash
Caden Fine, 17, from Birmingham, Alabama, and two of his teammates were killed when their vehicle collided with a semi-truck in Canada.
Entertainment
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Ransom note being investigated in Nancy Guthrie's disappearance, sheriff says
The sheriff says the note was sent to a local Arizona news station, which agreed not to report on it, following the disappearance of "Today" show co-host Savannah Guthrie's mother, Nancy Guthrie.
Miranda Lambert sells entire music catalog
Country star Miranda Lambert's entire catalog now belongs to Sony Music Publishing Nashville and Domain Capital Group. Jem Aswad, executive editor for music at Variety, joins "The Daily Report" to discuss.
Activists on inspiring next generation
Activist Gloria Steinem, who has fought for the rights of every woman, is on a mission to inspire the next generation. She is collaborating with Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Leymah Gbowee, who helped end the civil war in Liberia, on a new children's book. They talk to "CBS Mornings" about their experiences in their fight for equality and deciding to collaborate.
Westminster dog show winners on preparation
Three former winners of the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show and their handlers join "CBS Mornings" ahead of this year's Best in Show title being awarded Tuesday. They talk about how they prepared to compete and what retirement is like now.
Gabrielle Union talks new film "Goat"
Gabrielle Union talks about starring in the new animated movie "Goat," working with her husband and the real life issues portrayed in the movie.
Technology
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More companies are pointing to AI as they lay off employees
Although economists have generally downplayed the impact of artificial intelligence on jobs, some employers are highlighting their adoption of AI.
Tech executive breaks down AI agents
Scott Hanselman, vice president of developer community at Microsoft, joins CBS News to explain the difference between an LLM like ChatGPT and an AI agent. He also explains how AI agents could become assertive if given too much access.
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.
AI agents are using a social media platform
Moltbook, a social media platform for AI agents to interact, is growing. The Verge senior AI reporter Hayden Field joins CBS News with more details.
Inside the new social media platform for AI
Moltbook was launched last week by a software developer and mirrors the template of Reddit, but it's not for humans. Instead, it allows artificial intelligence agents to post written content and interact with other chatbots through comments, up-votes and down-votes. Tyler Cowen, professor of economics at George Mason University, joins CBS News to discuss.
Science
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Scientists "quite surprised" to find one polar bear population thriving
After decades monitoring polar bears in Norway's far north, researchers say the animals have proven incredibly adaptable, but there are no guarantees for the future.
Mysterious dark matter seen in new map of distant galaxies
Dark matter doesn't absorb or give off light so scientists can't study it directly. But they can observe how its gravity warps and bends the star stuff around it.
Cow develops technique to scratch herself
"CBS Saturday Morning" learns more about Veronika, the clever cow who figured out multiple ways to scratch herself with a broom. It was the first time a cow was seen using a tool.
Almanac: January 18
"Sunday Morning" looks back at historical events on this date.
Fossils found at Dinosaur National Monument, first excavation in 100 years
The Dinosaur National Monument, which is located on the border between Colorado and Utah, was last excavated in 1924.
Crime
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Ransom note being investigated in Nancy Guthrie's disappearance, sheriff says
The sheriff says the note was sent to a local Arizona news station, which agreed not to report on it, following the disappearance of "Today" show co-host Savannah Guthrie's mother, Nancy Guthrie.
Lawyers for alleged Charlie Kirk killer again ask to have prosecutors removed
Tyler Robinson's attorneys want the entire Utah County Attorney's Office disqualified because one of the prosecutors has a daughter who was present at the rally where Kirk was shot.
Details on Nancy Guthrie ransom note
The Pima County sheriff tells CBS News that they received a ransom note related to the apparent abduction of Nancy Guthrie. CBS News' Andres Gutierrez and Anna Schecter have more.
Study finds significant crime decrease in 2025
A new study from the Council on Criminal Justice finds that crime rates are dropping across the U.S., with some areas reaching their lowest levels in decades in 2025. Alex Piquero, professor of criminology at the University of Miami, joins to assess the findings.
Clintons push to testify publicly on Epstein
Bill and Hillary Clinton will testify before lawmakers behind closed doors later in February about convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The House Oversight Committee was preparing to hold them in contempt for refusing to appear. CBS News justice correspondent Scott MacFarlane reports.
Space
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Space
What led NASA to delay Artemis II launch
NASA's first crewed moon mission in more than 50 years has been delayed until March at the earliest. During a routine dress rehearsal of the launch, persistent liquid hydrogen leaks were discovered in the Artemis II rocket. CBS News space consultant Bill Harwood breaks it down.
NASA hopes to fix Artemis II moon rocket leak with on-pad repair
NASA plans to test the planned leak repair with a second dress rehearsal fueling test later this month.
NASA delays Artemis II launch
NASA delayed the Artemis II moon rocket launch after a hydrogen leak was found during a wet dress rehearsal, the agency announced Tuesday. CBS News senior space consultant Bill Harwood has the latest.
NASA begins mission to map the boundaries of our heliosphere
A NASA mission is underway to map the heliosphere, which is a huge protective bubble around the solar system that was created by the sun.
NASA moon launch off until March due to issues during tests
NASA says it can't try until March at the earliest to send a crewed spacecraft on a flight around the moon and back, due to hydrogen leaks during testing of the Artemis II rocket.
Latest Galleries
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Notable Deaths in 2026
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
Evidence in the Barbara Kendhammer case
Does the evidence show a cover-up, or was Todd Kendhammer wrongfully convicted for the murder of his wife?
The life & near death of prizefighter Christy Salters-Martin
Christy Salters-Martin dominated in the boxing ring but faced her toughest challenger at home.
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
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Latest CBS News Videos
Teen boy recalls grueling swim to save family
A 13-year-old boy is credited with saving the lives of his mother and two younger siblings with an hourslong swim after the family was swept out to sea off the Australian coast. Tony Dokoupil has the story.
Leaks delay Artemis II moon mission until March
NASA announced the long-awaited flight to send four astronauts on a trip around the moon was being delayed to March after a test launch ran into a variety of problems and ultimately was called off. Mark Strassmann reports.
First on CBS
Extended: Jane Doe in R. Kelly trial speaks
Reshona Landfair, who testified as Jane Doe at R. Kelly's 2022 federal trial, speaks to Jericka Duncan in her first TV interview about her new memoir, "Who's Watching Shorty?". Kelly is now behind bars after being convicted of racketeering and sex crimes in two separate federal trials in 2021 and 2022. But Kelly's legal troubles started long before that, including when a tape that he had filmed performing sex acts on a 14-year-old girl — now identified as Landfair — leaked in 2001.
Renee Good's brothers testify on Capitol Hill
Renee Good's brothers were among several people who testified on Capitol Hill about federal agents and their use of force. Nicole Sganga has the latest.
Federal presence in Bay Area for Super Bowl
Some Bay Area residents are concerned that there will be an increase in federal agents focused on immigration enforcement ahead of Super Bowl LX. CBS News correspondent Nidia Cavazos has the details.