Climate Change

The urgency of addressing human causes of climate change has long been apparent. To amplify this issue that's paramount to us all, KPBS has launched a Climate Change Desk to step up our coverage of this existential threat including reported stories and interviews with experts and newsmakers.

Environment

Insurance costs are soaring around Tornado Alley. Hail is the big problem.

Michael Copley

While tornadoes can obliterate communities, hailstorms cause damage across much larger areas.
Environment

Electric grills are a climate-friendly option to fossil fuel grills

Jeff Brady

Grilling usually involves burning fossil fuel. But some manufacturers are offering electric grills and citing climate change and convenience as reasons to switch.
Politics

Congress moves to loosen toxic air pollution rules

Alejandra Borunda

The House and Senate both voted to loosen regulations on air pollutants like dioxin and mercury, which are associated with higher cancer risk.
Environment

Forecasters predict above-average hurricane season again

Rebecca Hersher

Forecasters expect 13 to 19 storms to form in the Atlantic between June 1 and the end of November. At least 6 of those are forecast to be full-blown hurricanes.
Environment

Community groups say Louisiana is trying to stop them from monitoring air pollution

Michael Copley

For community groups to allege violations of environmental rules, a state law says groups have to use federally-approved testing equipment, and it sets restrictions for analyzing and sharing the data.
Economy

Upending norms, the Senate votes to undo California's EV rules

Camila Domonoske

The Senate parliamentarian advised lawmakers that they couldn't use the Congressional Review Act to revoke California's right to set vehicle standards. But they did it anyway. Expect a legal fight.
National

Large tornado outbreaks are becoming more common. But it's unclear why

Rebecca Hersher

It's getting more common for a lot of tornadoes to form over a big area in a short period of time. But the total number of tornadoes each year in the U.S. is stable.
Environment

Where does your weather forecast come from?

Rebecca Hersher

Whether you get your forecast from an app on your phone, a website or a meteorologist on TV, most of the underlying information comes from the federal government.
This country is slowing climate action. Its capital city is stepping up

Julia Simon

As many federal governments slow — or reverse — climate action, Austria's capital, Vienna, wants to show how cities can take the lead.
Environment

Need help switching appliances from gas to electric? A 'coach' can help

Jeff Brady

Government incentives for climate-friendly upgrades are confusing to navigate, and it can be hard to find businesses that sell them. So a new industry is emerging to help: the decarbonization coach.