"Very unhealthy" pollution levels recorded in D.C. after July 4th fireworks
A "purple" air quality alert was issued for Washington, D.C., and surrounding areas, on Sunday, meaning pollution reached levels considered "very unhealthy."
Fireworks
Are drones the new fireworks?
While many in the U.S. light fireworks on the Fourth of July, some towns are turning to drones as a cleaner, quieter alternative. Mark Strassmann gets a preview in Texas.
Family-owned company prepares to put on the largest fireworks display in history
When the sun goes down on Independence Day, the skies of Washington, D.C., are expected to fill with a record-setting 850,000 individual fireworks for a 40-minute spectacle like no one has seen before.
Attempting the largest fireworks display ever
A company called Pyrotecnico will attempt the biggest fireworks show in history in Washington, D.C., on the Fourth of July. Tony Dokoupil gets the exclusive on how.
D.C. under high alert for Fourth of July
Security measures in Washington, D.C., are heightened as thousands are expected for Fourth of July celebrations. CBS News' Nicole Sganga reports.
Preview of July Fourth fireworks in D.C.
The Fourth of July festivities in D.C. will include what's expected to be the largest fireworks show in American history. Pyrotecnico, which has been putting on displays for more than a century, is in charge of the celebration. Rocco Vitale, the company's president, gives a sneak peak at the operation.
High security in D.C. ahead of America 250
Law enforcement is preparing for a huge America 250 event in Washington, D.C., on the 4th of July. CBS News' Nicole Sganga has more details on security measures.
Fireworks plant explosion in China kills at least 26, state media say
An explosion at a fireworks plant in a province in central China killed at least 26 people and injured 61 others, authorities said. The cause was unknown. The person in charge was detained.
Synagogue attacker spent $2,000 on fireworks
CBS News has learned that the man who attacked a Michigan synagogue on Thursday purchased $2,000 worth of fireworks days before the incident. CBS News' Anna Schecter has more.
New Year's celebrations welcome 2026 around the world. See the photos.
New Zealand and Australia were among the first to welcome 2026, but in Sydney and some other cities, the festivities are tinged by grief.
1/2: CBS Morning News
At least 15 people were killed in a New Year's Day attack in New Orleans; New Year's Eve fireworks explosion in Hawaii killed at least three.
Staying safe around fireworks
A lightning strike in Sanford, Florida, set off the city's entire Fourth of July fireworks display on Friday. While acts of nature are unavoidable, here are some tips for staying safe and steering clear of accidents around fireworks.
Fireworks set 4 homes ablaze in L.A.
One person was killed and another was critically injured when multiple fireworks were set off in a Los Angeles neighborhood. Flames quickly spread to nearby homes as more than 130 firefighters raced to the scene. Carter Evans reports.
Missouri fireworks retailer worried about tariffs
President Trump lit the fuse on sweeping tariffs on April 2, which he called "Liberation Day." Ian Lee explains how import taxes on fireworks could affect America's 250th birthday celebration, next year.
Tariffs could spell trouble for fireworks shows
Fireworks, a hallmark of July 4th celebrations, are feeling the impact of President Trump's trade war with China. CBS News correspondent Ian Lee spoke to a Missouri fireworks distributor about the issue.
Fireworks explosion sets homes ablaze in L.A.
At least one person was hospitalized, and four homes were burned during a fireworks-related fire in Los Angeles, according to the Los Angeles Fire Department. KCAL News reporter Rick Montanez reports.
What stores and other businesses are open and closed on July 4?
Banks and post offices will close on July Fourth, but many grocery stores, restaurants and other retailers plan to remain open. Here's what to know.
Safety tips for fireworks celebrations
Nearly 15,000 people were treated in emergency rooms last year for fireworks-related injuries. As Americans celebrate the Fourth of July, TNT's fireworks expert James Fuller gives tips to stay safe.
How tariffs may impact fireworks celebrations
Millions will gather across the U.S. for the dazzling sights of fireworks to mark the Fourth of July, but the tradition relies almost exclusively on China. The Asian country makes nearly all of the fireworks that are used in the U.S. It's causing problems for fireworks retailers, many of them small businesses, because of the uncertainty of President Trump's tariffs. CBS News' Ian Lee reports.
Fireworks supplier feeling the pinch over tariffs
With the Fourth of July comes sky-high demand for fireworks, but this year, soaring tariffs could dull the show. Elise Preston reports.
Keeping pets safe on Fourth of July
July Fourth and its fireworks can be a nightmare for some cats, dogs and other animals. Michelle Williams, senior manager of public relations and marketing for Canine Companions, joins CBS News to discuss.
Incidents involving fireworks reported
There have been several dangerous incidents reported regarding fireworks as Americans prepare for the Fourth of July. CBS News' Shanelle Kaul reports.
7 missing after fireworks warehouse explosion
Seven people are still missing after an explosion went off at a fireworks warehouse in Northern California on Tuesday night. CBS News Sacramento's Kayla Mueller reports.
Who investigates fireworks explosions like the one in Esparto, California?
After what happened in Esparto and the large response that followed, CBS News California looked back at another large fireworks-related explosion in California to get an idea of how the investigation in Yolo County may develop.
Trump's tariffs could impact fireworks cost
President Trump's steep tariffs could impact the price of fireworks, which are mostly manufactured in China. CBS News' Shanelle Kaul has more.
Trump revisits disputed claims about election security and declassifies documents
In a primetime address, President Trump alleged the U.S. election system falls "catastrophically short," revisiting a topic that has drawn his attention for years — and making claims that election experts have heavily disputed.
Live
"Worst case scenario" for shippers as U.S. and Iran step up attacks
As the U.S. and Iran escalate attacks 140 days into the war, an industry analyst says "nobody is willing to move" through the Strait of Hormuz.
Maps show wildfire smoke forecast, air quality alerts in U.S.
Heavy smoke from several large wildfires blazing in Canada and Minnesota is engulfing large swaths of the Midwest and Northeast U.S. this week.
Fact-checking Trump's speech on election security
President Trump delivered a speech on election security Thursday night at the White House. Here are the facts behind some of his claims.
Universities get funding from foreign entities on U.S. watch lists, records show
The State Department is cracking down on universities accepting funding from foreign entities on U S. government watch lists.
Andy Burnham declared Labour Party leader, will become U.K. prime minister
Andy Burnham was officially declared leader of Britain's governing Labour Party, clearing his final hurdle to taking office as prime minister next week.
Thousands of election-focused workers cut during Trump's 2nd term
Since the beginning of his second administration, the government has cut thousands of workers who were tasked with ensuring secure elections in the U.S.
Cyclosporiasis outbreak possibly traced to lettuce from Mexico used by Taco Bell
A lettuce supplier to fast-food giant Taco Bell is being investigated as a possible source for a nationwide cyclosporiasis outbreak that has sickened thousands of people.
Trump falsely alleges voting machines are "vulnerable" and "easily compromised"
President Trump alleged voting machines and ballot-counting systems are "extremely exposed to attack" — but experts say voting machines are subject to intense controls.
U.S.
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Trump revisits disputed claims about election security and declassifies documents
In a primetime address, President Trump alleged the U.S. election system falls "catastrophically short," revisiting a topic that has drawn his attention for years — and making claims that election experts have heavily disputed.
Trump falsely alleges voting machines are "vulnerable" and "easily compromised"
President Trump alleged voting machines and ballot-counting systems are "extremely exposed to attack" — but experts say voting machines are subject to intense controls.
Fact-checking Trump's speech on election security
President Trump delivered a speech on election security Thursday night at the White House. Here are the facts behind some of his claims.
Blanche holds meeting with Epstein accusers after Tillis' request
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche met with accusers of Jeffrey Epstein following a demand to do so by a Republican senator whose support is crucial to advancing his nomination to lead the Justice Department.
Dozens of Marineland's whales coming to U.S. through rescue plan
Dozens of beluga whales are set to be relocated from the shuttered Canadian theme park to aquariums across the United States through an international emergency rescue effort, officials said.
MoneyWatch
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Trump Media to sell faster access to president's Truth Social posts
"Markets already move on Truth Social posts," the company's chief executive said in the Truth API announcement.
Airlines say permanent daylight saving time won't be simple
Adjusting to permanent daylight saving time would cause significant disruptions to schedules and operations, an airline trade group said.
Teleprompter operator made over $100K betting on Trump speeches
After detecting suspicious activity on the teleprompter operator's account, Kalshi investigated and then referred the case to federal regulators.
Nearly 736,000 Pillsbury rolls recalled over possible glass contamination
The recall includes cases of Pillsbury "Hard Roll Dough" and "Kaiser Roll Dough" bread rolls, which are marketed to businesses.
Foreclosures surged 21% in the first half of 2026, new data shows
The state with the biggest jump in foreclosure activity was Idaho, where filings increased 59% compared to the same time last year.
Politics
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Trump revisits disputed claims about election security and declassifies documents
In a primetime address, President Trump alleged the U.S. election system falls "catastrophically short," revisiting a topic that has drawn his attention for years — and making claims that election experts have heavily disputed.
Trump falsely alleges voting machines are "vulnerable" and "easily compromised"
President Trump alleged voting machines and ballot-counting systems are "extremely exposed to attack" — but experts say voting machines are subject to intense controls.
Fact-checking Trump's speech on election security
President Trump delivered a speech on election security Thursday night at the White House. Here are the facts behind some of his claims.
Blanche holds meeting with Epstein accusers after Tillis' request
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche met with accusers of Jeffrey Epstein following a demand to do so by a Republican senator whose support is crucial to advancing his nomination to lead the Justice Department.
Thousands of election-focused workers cut during Trump's 2nd term
Since the beginning of his second administration, the government has cut thousands of workers who were tasked with ensuring secure elections in the U.S.
HealthWatch
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HealthWatch
FDA approves new cholesterol pill
The FDA has approved a new daily cholesterol pill that works differently from popular statins and may deliver better results for some people. Dr. Corey Bradley, a cardiologist at Columbia University's Irving Medical Center, joins "CBS Evening News" to discuss.
FDA names likely cyclosporiasis source
The FDA has identified Taylor Farms as the likely source of lettuce contaminated with the parasite behind cyclosporiasis, as the outbreak grows. Mark Strassmann reports.
Cyclosporiasis outbreak possibly traced to lettuce from Mexico used by Taco Bell
A lettuce supplier to fast-food giant Taco Bell is being investigated as a possible source for a nationwide cyclosporiasis outbreak that has sickened thousands of people.
Doctors question plan to screen military members for low testosterone
Doctors raised a range of concerns about a testosterone screening policy announced by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, which is likely to be costly to implement.
Introducing Norah O'Donnell's new health podcast
"Healthful with Norah O'Donnell" launches July 22.
World
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Tree-killing Asian beetle detected in EU for first time
The emerald ash borer, which has devastated ash forests in North America, has been detected in the European Union for the first time.
Andy Burnham declared Labour Party leader, will become U.K. prime minister
Andy Burnham was officially declared leader of Britain's governing Labour Party, clearing his final hurdle to taking office as prime minister next week.
Journalist known as "The Jaguar" shot dead in Mexico
The state government condemned the murder of Josue Martinez, and called on prosecutors to launch a probe in order to find those responsible.
Live
"Worst case scenario" for shippers as U.S. and Iran step up attacks
As the U.S. and Iran escalate attacks 140 days into the war, an industry analyst says "nobody is willing to move" through the Strait of Hormuz.
Dozens of Marineland's whales coming to U.S. through rescue plan
Dozens of beluga whales are set to be relocated from the shuttered Canadian theme park to aquariums across the United States through an international emergency rescue effort, officials said.
Entertainment
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Entertainment
From the archives: Pat Oliphant and the art of political cartoons
Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonist Pat Oliphant, whose acidic drawings skewering political figures were syndicated in as many as 500 publications around the world, died on July 13, 2026 at age 90. In this April 16, 2000 "Sunday Morning" story, Oliphant talked with Morley Safer about caricature, censorship, and the influence of the first great political cartoonist, 19th century French master Honoré Daumier, whose grotesque drawings of King Louis Philippe led to a curtailment of press freedom in France in 1835.
George Santos to try hand as contestant in grueling TV reality show
George Santos has worn many hats: swindler, congressman, prison inmate, podcast host. The obvious next gig? Reality TV show contestant.
"Jurassic Park" star Sam Neill's cause of death revealed
The actor's agent said he was providing more information following news reports "which contain inaccuracies and outright falsehoods."
Behind the "Better in Person" talk show
Author and journalist Stephen Dubner, who rose to fame when he co-wrote The New York Times bestseller "Freakonomics," talks with "CBS Mornings" about launching his own weekly talk show on YouTube, "Better in Person." Dubner discusses how the show got its start, his wide range of guests and why he decided to self-finance it.
Insider at "The Wolf of Wall Street" firm opens up: "My lifestyle was insane"
The Paramount+ documentary "The Real Wolf of Wall Street" gives an inside look at Jordan Belfort's scandal-ridden firm, Stratton Oakmont.
Technology
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Technology
Erin Brockovich on data center regulation
New York is now the first state to temporarily ban data center construction, paving the way for others to follow suit. Environmental advocate Erin Brockovich joins "The Takeout" to discuss.
Mayor to homeowner losing sleep over data center plant: "Consider selling"
Noise from a Mississippi plant powering Elon Musk's xAI data centers in the area is causing migraines, ringing ears and sleepless nights, residents say.
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.
Mississippi residents decry data center plant
Residents of Southaven, Mississippi, are sounding off about a data center plant powering Elon Musk's xAI data centers in the area, likening the constant noise to being tortured.
Meta announces new safety features
Meta announced it is introducing new features to help protect teens using Instagram, Facebook and WhatsApp, including alerting a parent if their child discusses self-harm with one of its AI chatbots. Kelly O'Grady explains.
Science
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Science
How AI data centers impact the environment
New York has become the first state to impose a temporary moratorium on data center development while state lawmakers lay the groundwork to assess environmental and social impacts. Dr. Mike Weinstein, the director of sustainability at Southern New Hampshire University, explains what we know about the wider environmental impact data centers.
Russian Soyuz rocket launches fresh crew to space station
The new crew will replace three other Soyuz fliers wrapping up a 240-day stay aboard the International Space Station.
Astronomer's name deciphered from ancient Mayan ruins for first time
The name "White-chested Fox" was found in drawings dating from 400 BC to 900 AD at the San Bartolo-Xultun archaeological site.
Disclosure Foundation head on new UFO files
The Pentagon on Friday released a new batch of UFO files, spanning 19 videos and more. Jordan Flowers, executive director of the Disclosure Foundation, joins CBS News to discuss.
Watch: Pentagon releases 19 new UFO videos
The Defense Department released a fourth batch of UFO files on Friday, nearly one month after its third drop. These are all of the videos in the latest tranche, plus analysis from astrophysicist Avi Loeb.
Crime
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Journalist known as "The Jaguar" shot dead in Mexico
The state government condemned the murder of Josue Martinez, and called on prosecutors to launch a probe in order to find those responsible.
U.S. designates cartel on Texas border as foreign terrorist organization
The Juárez Cartel and Los Viagras joined six other Mexican criminal organizations that the U.S. considers terrorist groups.
Woman speaks in support of Blanche at hearing
Antioch, Illinois, mother Jennifer Bos voiced her support for Todd Blanche at his confirmation hearing to become attorney general. Bos advocates for stricter immigration policy after her daughter was allegedly murdered by an illegal immigrant.
Sons of man killed by ICE agent speak out
Ronaldo Salgado and Lorenzo Salgado Jr., the sons of the Mexican man who was shot and killed by an ICE agent in Houston, spoke to CBS News' Camilo Montoya-Galvez about their father's death.
New details emerge in Nolan Wells case
Newly obtained GPS data from the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources tracks the movements of the boat that Mississippi teen Nolan Wells was on before he went missing. Wells was found dead after a Fourth of July boat trip to Horn Island with friends. CBS News' Anna Schecter has the latest on the investigation.
Space
More Space
Meteorite that hit home contains "alien world chemistry," experts say
When scientists examined the preserved fragments of a meteorite that crashed in 2024, they found brine-like fluids and key molecules.
Russian Soyuz rocket launches fresh crew to space station
The new crew will replace three other Soyuz fliers wrapping up a 240-day stay aboard the International Space Station.
Astronomers discover sugar in space that's also found in raspberries
The sugar, called erythrulose, lurks in what's called the interstellar medium: thin clouds of gas and dust littered between stars.
Telescope spots most distant quasars ever discovered
Quasars — the brightest objects in the universe — are powered by supermassive black holes at the heart of early galaxies.
Mission launched to rescue a falling space telescope
Katalyst Space's LINK spacecraft is designed to capture and boost NASA's Swift observatory back to a safe altitude.
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.
Photos show celebrations at Obama Presidential Center
The Obama Presidential Center, museum and library opens in Chicago with a star-studded grand opening ceremony and public watch party on Midway Plaisance.
Summer music highlights of 2026
Summer is the time to enjoy live music, indoors and out. Scroll through our gallery of some of 2026's leading musical acts, featuring images by CBS News photojournalist Jake Barlow and photographers Ed Spinelli and Kirstine Walton.
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?
Timeline: The disappearance of George Smith
Family seeks answers in death of newlywed who disappeared in 2005 while on Mediterranean honeymoon cruise.
Latest CBS News Videos
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Latest CBS News Videos
Eye Opener: Dangerous wildfire smoke
Smoke from wildfires raging in parts of Canada is creating hazardous conditions for millions of Americans. Plus, President Trump questions election integrity during his primetime address, and includes several disproven claims. All that and all that matters in today's Eye Opener.
Trump speaks on elections | Special Report
President Trump on Thursday delivered a primetime address about election security where he railed against China. Tony Dokoupil anchored CBS News' special report.
Doctor on wildfire smoke health risks
Millions of Americans across the Northeast and Midwest were under air quality alerts this week as smoke from Canadian and Minnesota wildfires settled in. At the same time, some of those same areas saw severe heat. CBS News medical correspondent Dr. Céline Gounder has more.
Sen. Warner slams Trump's primetime speech
Sen. Mark Warner joins CBS News with his reaction to President Trump's primetime address on Thursday about U.S. election security.
Trump rails against China in primetime speech
President Trump addressed the U.S. in a primetime speech on Thursday night about election security, launching allegations against China. Tony Dokoupil anchored CBS News' special report.