California issues emergency alert as record heat wave strains electrical grid
A record-setting heat wave is making life miserable in the West.
California
Heat and wildfires ravage West Coast
More than 58 million people are under excessive heat warnings and advisories in seven states, and multiple wildfires are burning across California as firefighters battle the flames along with the brutal heat. Carter Evans reports.
California grapples with another day of deadly fires and record-breaking heat
More than 58 million people are under excessive heat warnings and advisories in seven states, including almost all of California.
California heat wave smashes records as hottest day approaches
The state is preparing for rolling blackouts on Tuesday as forecasters predict the heat wave will continue to smash its own records.
California fast-food workers could see wages reach $22 an hour
Gov. Gavin Newsom signs landmark bill giving more than a 500,000 restaurant workers more power and protections.
California faces risk of power outages amid brutal heat wave
"This is about to get significantly more intense," utility official said as the mercury in some parts of the state hits 115 degrees.
Lake Mead's water level has never been lower. Here's what that means.
A 22-year mega-drought has caused elevation to drop along the Colorado River, which supplies water to 40 million people in the U.S. and Mexico.
Agave proving to be an ideal crop in California
Ongoing drought conditions in California are forcing farmers to look at alternative crops that require much less water. Agave, traditionally grown in Mexico, is now proving to be an ideal and lucrative crop for many farmers in the region. Elizabeth Klinge has the details.
Northern California's Mill Fire destroys 100 homes, other buildings
About 100 homes and other structures have been destroyed in a Northern California wildfire that put thousands under evacuation orders.
California Legislature passes internet safety bill for minors
The California Legislature has passed a bill aimed at protecting minors on social media platforms. It now heads to California Gov. Gavin Newsom's desk for his signature. Emi Kim, director of legislative efforts for the Log Off Movement, and Nicole Gill, co-founder of Accountable Tech, joined CBS News to discuss the benefits of the legislation.
Thousands evacuate, homes destroyed after wildfire erupts in California
A Cal Fire spokeswoman said several people have been injured in the blaze.
Judge tosses manslaughter charge in California boat fire that killed 34
A federal judge has thrown out an indictment charging a boat captain with manslaughter in the deaths of 34 scuba divers three years ago off the California coast.
Schools offering low-cost apartments to teachers to combat shortages
"If I hadn't gotten the housing, it would have been really challenging for me to make ends meet," one teacher said.
Tech grants cops "mass surveillance on a budget" — no warrant needed
Tracking tool "Fog Reveal," in use since 2018, allows cops to access phone IDs and follow people's movements.
Calif. wildfires force evacuations
California is on high alert as several wildfires have erupted near Los Angeles and San Diego amid a sweltering heat wave expected to last for the next week. Jonathan Vigliotti reports.
California wildfires force evacuations amid heat wave
California Gov. Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency Wednesday to increase power production, and urged residents to reduce electricity use.
Labor Day heat wave to scorch California with triple-digit temps
The late-summer heat wave comes as 50 million people across U.S. sweat under extreme heat advisories and warnings.
California moves one step closer to mandatory kindergarten
The bill, which would be enacted in the 2024-25 school year if signed by the governor, would require all children to attend one year of kindergarten before they can go to first grade.
California lawmakers OK bills to curtail social media
"The online world has created tremendous opportunities, but also real and proximate threats," said one legislator.
Scorching heat wave forecast for West
California and other western states are in for a scorching hot holiday weekend, with temperatures 10 to 20 degrees above normal. Weather Channel meteorologist Stephanie Abrams joins CBS News' Lana Zak with the forecast.
4 million L.A. County residents asked to halt outdoor watering for 15 days
A pipeline that brings Colorado River water to Southern California will undergo emergency repairs next month.
California to install solar panels over canals to fight drought, a first in the U.S.
California will be the first state in the nation to install solar panel canopies over canals to combat drought and climate change.
California banning new gas cars by 2035
In a move to combat pollution in the state, California passed a law Thursday banning new gas-powered vehicles by 2035. It's a move mired with questions of affordability and feasibility among carmakers. Neal Boudette, an auto reporter with the New York Times, joined CBS News' Tanya Rivero and Tony Dokoupil to hash out the pros and cons of the new law.
Montecito's El Fureidis, a Gilded Age treasure above Santa Barbara
Built in 1906 in the Montecito Hills above Santa Barbara, Calif., El Fureidis, the Mediterranean-inspired home of real estate tycoon James Waldron Gillespie, is an oasis of tranquility and class, in a lush 10-acre property. Jane Pauley takes us inside. (Originally broadcast May 22, 2022.)
A Santa Barbara history
The city on California's southern coast would evolve dramatically over the course of four centuries, from the home of Chumash people to a Spanish settlement and mission, to an oceanfront jewel whose architecture and lifestyle have become the epitome of the California Dream. Jane Pauley takes a walk through the history of the "American Riviera." (Originally broadcast May 22, 2022.)
Zelenskyy says he will meet Trump on Sunday for Ukraine-Russia talks
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy says he and President Trump have agreed to meet in Florida on Sunday, signaling progress in talks to end the Russia-Ukraine war.
Maps show winter storm forecast for ice and snow from Great Lakes to Northeast
Millions of Americans live in areas under winter storm alerts stretching from northern Minnesota to the Eastern Seaboard.
U.S. launches strikes on ISIS targets in Nigeria, Trump says
Strikes against ISIS targets in Nigeria come after President Trump spent weeks accusing the West African country's government of failing to rein in the persecution of Christians.
Veterans Affairs Department reimposing near total abortion ban
The Veterans Affairs Department is reimposing a near total ban on abortions for veterans and their families that was modified in 2022.
Israel police say 2 killed in car-ramming and stabbing attack by Palestinian
The attack began Friday afternoon in the northern city of Beit Shean, where the Palestinian man crashed his vehicle into people, killing one man and injuring a teenage boy.
Perry Bamonte, guitarist for The Cure, dies after "short illness" at 65
The band announced Perry Bamonte's death on their official website on Friday.
Iran seizes oil tanker smuggling fuel on Strait of Hormuz, Tehran says
Iran seized a foreign oil tanker as it traveled the strategic Strait of Hormuz carrying some 25,000 barrels of smuggled fuel, state media said.
Here's what is open on the day after Christmas, from retailers to banks
With President Trump declaring Dec. 26 a federal holiday, here's what's open and closed on Dec. 26.
15 hurt in stabbing, chemical liquid attack in Japan tire factory
More than a dozen people were injured in a stabbing attack in a factory in central Japan in which a liquid believed to be bleach was also sprayed, authorities said.
U.S.
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Two police officers injured, suspect killed during child custody exchange
Police were called to a shopping center late Friday morning. Two officers were shot and are in critical condition.
This week on "Sunday Morning" (Dec. 28)
A look at the features for this week's broadcast of the Emmy-winning program, hosted by Jane Pauley.
U.S. stocks hover at record highs after the Christmas holiday
Stocks are mostly flat in quiet morning trading on Friday as investors return from the Christmas holiday.
Veterans Affairs Department reimposing near total abortion ban
The Veterans Affairs Department is reimposing a near total ban on abortions for veterans and their families that was modified in 2022.
Maps show winter storm forecast for ice and snow from Great Lakes to Northeast
Millions of Americans live in areas under winter storm alerts stretching from northern Minnesota to the Eastern Seaboard.
MoneyWatch
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U.S. stocks hover at record highs after the Christmas holiday
Stocks are mostly flat in quiet morning trading on Friday as investors return from the Christmas holiday.
Here's what is open on the day after Christmas, from retailers to banks
With President Trump declaring Dec. 26 a federal holiday, here's what's open and closed on Dec. 26.
5 money moves to make in 2026, according to financial experts
As many Americans head into 2026 with mounting money worries, reviewing your finances now could help put you on firmer footing next year.
Is anything open on Christmas Day 2025? See which businesses are operating.
Most major retail stores and grocery chains are closed on Christmas Day, with some exceptions.
NHTSA investigating Tesla Model 3 emergency door handles
Traffic safety regulators are reviewing a motorist's complaints that the manual door handles on some Model 3 cars are hard to find, a potential hazard in a crash.
Politics
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Veterans Affairs Department reimposing near total abortion ban
The Veterans Affairs Department is reimposing a near total ban on abortions for veterans and their families that was modified in 2022.
U.S. launches strikes on ISIS targets in Nigeria, Trump says
Strikes against ISIS targets in Nigeria come after President Trump spent weeks accusing the West African country's government of failing to rein in the persecution of Christians.
Kimmel skewers Trump, tells U.K. viewers that "tyranny is booming" in U.S.
The message, aired on Channel 4 on Christmas Day, reflected on the impact of President Trump's second term in office thus far.
Kennedy Center Christmas Eve concert canceled after Trump's name added
A planned Christmas Eve jazz concert at the Kennedy Center has been canceled.
Trump promises to guard against "bad Santa" in Christmas Eve calls with kids
President Trump spent part of Christmas Eve bantering with kids, updating families on NORAD's Santa tracker and reminding one child that the big guy has a "serious appetite."
HealthWatch
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Baby defies all odds after growing outside his mom's womb
Suze Lopez, a 41-year-old nurse who lives in Bakersfield, California, didn't know she was pregnant with her second child until days before giving birth.
FDA approves Wegovy pill for weight loss
The Food and Drug Administration has approved a pill version of the weight-loss drug Wegovy.
Aetna to cover IVF treatments for same-sex couples in national settlement
A federal judge has approved a preliminary agreement for a class action lawsuit requiring Aetna to cover fertility treatments for same-sex couples as they do with heterosexual couples.
Flu season is ramping up, and some experts are "pretty worried"
Doctors and scientists say this year's influenza season could be tougher than usual, with a new version of the flu virus, called H3N2, spreading quickly.
Finding hope through cancer clinical trials
#LillyPartner Cancer clinical trials can offer patients access to investigational treatments that can be explored as early as the time of diagnosis. Ovarian cancer survivor Alicia Dellario and Dr. Arjun Balar, senior vice president of global clinical development at Eli Lilly and Company, join "CBS Mornings" to talk about the potential benefits of cancer clinical trials -- and clarify common misconceptions. Visit cancerclinicaltrials.lilly.com for more information. (Sponsored by Eli Lilly and Company)
World
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Israeli police say 2 killed in car-ramming and stabbing attack by Palestinian
The attack began Friday afternoon in the northern city of Beit Shean, where the Palestinian man crashed his vehicle into people, killing one man and injuring a teenage boy.
8 killed, 18 wounded in mosque bombing in Syria
Images shared by Syria's state-run news agency showed blood on carpets, holes in the walls, shattered windows and fire damage.
Endangered wild cat seen in Thailand for the first time in 30 years
Flat-headed cats are among the world's most threatened wild felines.
Iran seizes oil tanker smuggling fuel on Strait of Hormuz, Tehran says
Iran seized a foreign oil tanker as it traveled the strategic Strait of Hormuz carrying some 25,000 barrels of smuggled fuel, state media said.
15 hurt in stabbing, chemical liquid attack in Japan tire factory
More than a dozen people were injured in a stabbing attack in a factory in central Japan in which a liquid believed to be bleach was also sprayed, authorities said.
Entertainment
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Perry Bamonte, guitarist for The Cure, dies after "short illness" at 65
The band announced Perry Bamonte's death on their official website on Friday.
Broadway actress Imani Smith stabbed to death in New Jersey, police say
Smith previously played young Nala in "The Lion King" on Broadway.
Former "Big Brother" houseguest Mickey Lee died on Christmas, family says
Mickey Lee, a former "Big Brother" houseguest known for her vibrant personality and bold gameplay, has died, her family announced in a social media post shared Friday.
Kimmel skewers Trump, tells U.K. viewers that "tyranny is booming" in U.S.
The message, aired on Channel 4 on Christmas Day, reflected on the impact of President Trump's second term in office thus far.
King Charles and royal family, minus Andrew, gather for Christmas
King Charles III led his family to church on foot ahead of his annual Christmas Day speech that is expected to focus on pilgrimage.
Technology
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Technology
Instacart ending AI price tests for retailers
Instacart says its ending its controversial system of using AI price tests for retailers. Earlier this month, an investigation by Consumer Reports and progressive think tank Groundwork Collaborative found that Instacart's algorithmic pricing charged various prices for the same item from the same store. Jo Ling Kent reports.
Tech companies push for data centers
Massive tech companies wanting to build more data centers in the U.S. are lobbying for support among Americans, according to a recent report by POLITICO. Gabby Miller joins CBS News with more on her reporting.
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.
Top tech gadgets of 2025
Timothy Werth, a tech editor at Mashable, joins "CBS News 24/7" to discuss the best gadgets of 2025.
Instacart to end AI price tests for retailers following investigation
Instacart had drawn criticism for testing an AI-based system that enabled retailers to charge different prices for the same grocery items.
Science
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Major climate research center on Trump administration chopping block
The Trump administration intends to dismantle one of the world's leading climate research institutions, in Boulder, Colorado, over what it said were concerns about "climate alarmism."
Researchers capture video of rare polar bear adoption
The footage of a bear caring for an adopted cub was captured during the annual polar bear migration along the Western Hudson Bay in Churchill, Manitoba.
Dinosaur tracks showing "herds moving in synchrony" found in Italy
Most of the footprints are elongated and made by bipeds. The best-preserved ones bear traces of at least four toes.
Interstellar comet is making its closest approach to Earth
NASA continues to aim its space telescopes at the visiting ice ball, estimated to be up to 3.5 miles in size.
Fossil footprints in Bolivia reveal dinosaurs' awkward attempts to swim
Paleontologists have discovered and documented 16,600 footprints left by theropods, the dinosaur group that includes the Tyrannosaurus rex.
Crime
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Crime
What's next on the Epstein files release?
Lawmakers may take action against the Department of Justice for the delayed release of the Jeffrey Epstein files. CBS News legal contributor Jessica Levinson weighs in.
Two police officers injured, suspect killed during child custody exchange
Police were called to a shopping center late Friday morning. Two officers were shot and are in critical condition.
Broadway actress Imani Smith stabbed to death in New Jersey, police say
Smith previously played young Nala in "The Lion King" on Broadway.
15 hurt in stabbing, chemical liquid attack in Japan tire factory
More than a dozen people were injured in a stabbing attack in a factory in central Japan in which a liquid believed to be bleach was also sprayed, authorities said.
Terry Rozier seeks to have charges thrown out in NBA gambling case
His lawyers argued that Rozier's alleged involvement in the wire fraud and money laundering conspiracies is limited.
Space
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Space
NASA's search for next lunar rover
NASA astronauts took their first drive on the moon 54 years ago. Now, three companies are competing for a NASA contract to build a new lunar rover for use starting with the Artemis 5 mission in 2030. Kris Van Cleave reports.
Artemis 2 astronauts rehearse countdown for upcoming moon launch
NASA is gearing up to send four Artemis astronauts on looping test flight around the moon in 2026.
Woman is first wheelchair user launched into space
A German aerospace engineer made history Saturday, becoming the first wheelchair user to go into space when she took a 10-minute trip aboard a Blue Origin rocket.
Blue Origin safely launches wheelchair user to space and back
German engineer Michaela Benthaus is the first person with a significant physical handicap to reach space.
Jared Isaacman, billionaire who's flown with SpaceX, confirmed to lead NASA
President Trump withdrew Isaacman's nomination for NASA administrator in April, before nominating him again in November.
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.
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
Zelenskyy to meet with Trump in Florida
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Friday that he will meet with President Trump in Florida this weekend to discuss security guarantees. CBS News' Leigh Kiniry and Sam Vinograd have the latest.
Details on strikes targeting ISIS in Nigeria
U.S. forces launched strikes targeting ISIS forces in Nigeria on Christmas Day. CBS News White House reporter Willie James Inman has the latest.
What's next on the Epstein files release?
Lawmakers may take action against the Department of Justice for the delayed release of the Jeffrey Epstein files. CBS News legal contributor Jessica Levinson weighs in.
Christmas return season begins
Americans have entered the 2025 gift returns era after the Christmas holidays. CBS MoneyWatch correspondent Kelly O'Grady has more.
Catastrophic flooding in California
Catastrophic flooding and mudslides in California have turned deadly. CBS News' Andres Gutierrez reports.