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Severe thunderstorm warnings issued for upstate NY; flash flood warnings also in effect

Severe thunderstorm warnings issued for upstate NY; flash flood warnings also in effect

The storms could bring 60 mph wind gusts, quarter-size hail and torrential rain to parts of the Finger Lakes and Southern Tier.
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Trace Selenium Levels Detected in Wailuku Water System, No Immediate Health Risk

Trace Selenium Levels Detected in Wailuku Water System, No Immediate Health Risk

Routine testing by the County of Maui Department of Water Supply (DWS) has identified trace levels of selenium in the Wailuku water system, which serves several areas including Māʻalaea, Kīhei, Wailea, and Mākena. The detected selenium levels, ranging from 2.4 to 6.5 micrograms per liter, are well below the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Maximum Contaminant Level of 50 micrograms per liter for drinking water. The initial detection occurred in May 2026, with follow-up testing in June confirming the presence of selenium. The DWS has notified the Hawaiʻi Department of Health and continues to monitor the water system to ensure compliance with federal and state standards. DWS Director John Stufflebean assures the public of the water's safety and the department's commitment to maintaining water quality.
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ASHRAE Provides Resources for Managing Air and Water Quality Challenges

ASHRAE Provides Resources for Managing Air and Water Quality Challenges

ASHRAE Provides Resources for Managing Air and Water Quality Challenges
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Wildfire Smoke Worsens U.S. Air Quality Since 2016

Wildfire Smoke Worsens U.S. Air Quality Since 2016

Recent analysis highlights a significant increase in wildfire smoke across the continental United States (CONUS) since 2016, reversing decades of improving air quality. Research from NASA and other studies confirms that smoke frequency has risen sharply, with the upper west quadrant of the U.S. experiencing 5-10 more smoke days annually compared to the early 2000s. Wildfire smoke, driven by climate change, is now recognized as a major contributor to air pollution, killing approximately 24,000 Americans annually and causing widespread disruptions to daily life. This includes impacts on health, indoor activities, and economic costs, such as investments in air purifiers and changes to ventilation systems. The findings underscore the growing influence of climate change on extreme weather events and their associated hazards. (Source: The Climate Brink, Dessler, 2026)
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Understanding the Impact of Rising Nighttime Temperatures

Understanding the Impact of Rising Nighttime Temperatures

Nighttime temperatures are rising due to climate change, posing significant risks to human health and the environment. Learn why this trend matters and how to adapt to a warming world.
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U.S. Faces Water Crisis Amidst Climate Change and Infrastructure Neglect

U.S. Faces Water Crisis Amidst Climate Change and Infrastructure Neglect

The United States is grappling with a severe water crisis exacerbated by climate change and decades of underinvestment in water infrastructure. Recent reports highlight that the Colorado River, a crucial water source for seven U.S. states, is experiencing unprecedented shortages, with its major reservoirs at their lowest levels since construction. This situation is part of a broader global pattern of water scarcity, with regions like Puerto Rico facing severe droughts. The crisis is further compounded by the ongoing El Niño, which is intensifying weather extremes worldwide. Additionally, municipal water systems in the U.S. are increasingly vulnerable to cyberattacks, adding another layer of complexity to the crisis.
Rochester Democrat and Chronicle Rochester Democrat and Chronicle
In advance of grand opening, Henrietta 7 Brew will offer freebies

In advance of grand opening, Henrietta 7 Brew will offer freebies

A new 7 Brew drive-thru coffee shop is opening in Henrietta with free drinks and charity events planned.
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New York DEC Faces Pressure to Relocate Family After Hazardous Waste Found in Love Canal Yard

New York DEC Faces Pressure to Relocate Family After Hazardous Waste Found in Love Canal Yard

A family residing in the Love Canal neighborhood of Niagara Falls, New York, has discovered potentially hazardous industrial waste in their backyard. Daniel and Jocelyn McKiernan, who moved to the area in 2020, reported health issues beginning in 2023, including miscarriages and mental health challenges. While landscaping for a pool, they uncovered metal rods and slag, which tests revealed contained high levels of lead, copper, iron, nickel, and other harmful substances. The New York Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has committed to investigating and remediating the property, although initial data suggests no immediate public health risk. However, the DEC has not addressed the family's request for relocation. The McKiernans have expressed frustration over the lack of full remediation and the discovery of a 1993 study indicating previous contamination on their property.
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Free PFAS Testing Program Launched for North Fork Private Well Users

Free PFAS Testing Program Launched for North Fork Private Well Users

Suffolk County officials have announced a new $1.5 million state pilot program offering free PFAS testing for private well users in the North Fork area. This initiative aims to help residents avoid the high costs of testing for PFAS, which are cancer-linked 'forever chemicals.' The program also provides financial assistance for installing treatment systems or connecting to public water. This comes as the Suffolk County Water Authority seeks additional funding to extend public water to properties affected by PFAS contamination, particularly in areas like Mattituck.
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New York Report Highlights Risks of Landfill Leachate to Drinking Water

New York Report Highlights Risks of Landfill Leachate to Drinking Water

A report by New York River Watch reveals that landfill leachate, containing harmful chemicals, is being discharged into drinking water sources across New York State. The report highlights that 523 million gallons of leachate were accounted for annually from 2019 to 2023, with a significant portion entering water supplies. The New York Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has proposed new regulations to address this issue, requiring active landfills to treat leachate and remove contaminants. However, environmental groups argue that the regulations need to be stricter and more comprehensive.
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EPA Faces Criticism Over Incomplete Lead Cleanup in Omaha

EPA Faces Criticism Over Incomplete Lead Cleanup in Omaha

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has been criticized for not fully addressing lead contamination in Omaha, Nebraska. Despite significant efforts and financial investment in environmental cleanup, more than half of the yards in a section of Omaha remain contaminated with lead levels high enough to pose health risks, particularly to children. The EPA's current cleanup standard, set in 2009, requires action only if lead levels exceed 400 parts per million, a threshold based on outdated health recommendations. Recent tests by the Flatwater Free Press and ProPublica found that many homes still have lead concentrations above 100 parts per million, a level now considered risky by modern health guidelines. The EPA is conducting further soil testing to determine if the cleanup site should be expanded or if the lead threshold for action should be lowered.
Rochester Democrat and Chronicle Rochester Democrat and Chronicle
Man dies after deputies shoot him at Henrietta Super 8 motel

Man dies after deputies shoot him at Henrietta Super 8 motel

Deputies said the man was armed with a box cutter and did not comply with commands to drop the weapon before they opened fire Sunday afternoon.