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Between prices and a diarrhea-causing parasite, lettuce is causing hard times at some restaurants

Between prices and a diarrhea-causing parasite, lettuce is causing hard times at some restaurants

It’s been a choppy year for restaurants that lean into lettuce

Lettuce Prices and Parasite Outbreak Impact U.S. Restaurants

Lettuce Prices and Parasite Outbreak Impact U.S. Restaurants

Restaurants across the U.S. are facing challenges due to rising lettuce prices and a cyclospora outbreak linked to shredded lettuce. The outbreak, which causes diarrhea, has affected thousands of Americans and led to a decline in sales for chains like Taco Bell. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration identified the source as shredded iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms, prompting a recall. The outbreak exacerbates existing issues in the lettuce industry, where prices have surged due to hot weather in Arizona. Restaurants are struggling to maintain customer traffic amid these challenges.

Lettuce Prices and Parasite Outbreak Challenge U.S. Restaurants

Lettuce Prices and Parasite Outbreak Challenge U.S. Restaurants

The U.S. lettuce industry is facing challenges due to a sharp increase in prices and a cyclospora outbreak linked to shredded lettuce. The price of iceberg lettuce rose nearly 20% in the first half of 2026, exacerbated by hot weather in Arizona and increased fuel costs. The cyclospora outbreak has affected thousands of Americans, leading to a decline in sales for restaurants like Taco Bell, which removed affected lettuce from its menu. The outbreak has also impacted other chains, with some experiencing reduced foot traffic and sales.

Arizona Republic

This rocket launch may be visible tonight in Arizona. Where to spot it

This rocket launch may be visible tonight in Arizona. Where to spot it

SpaceX plans to conduct the 8th and final California rocket launch of July tonight. Here's how you may be able to see the Falcon 9 rocket in Arizona.

Heat Wave Affects 42 Million in the U.S. with Record Temperatures

Heat Wave Affects 42 Million in the U.S. with Record Temperatures

A severe heat wave is impacting large parts of the United States, with over 42 million people under heat alerts. Temperatures have soared above 100°F in many areas, with a record high of 119°F recorded near Tecopa, California. The heat dome responsible for these extreme temperatures has shifted westward, affecting the Southwest and parts of the Intermountain West. The National Weather Service has issued warnings for several states, including Arizona, California, Nevada, and Utah, where temperatures are expected to remain dangerously high through the weekend.

Extreme Heat Warnings Issued Across U.S. Southwest Amid Record Temperatures

Extreme Heat Warnings Issued Across U.S. Southwest Amid Record Temperatures

A significant heat wave is affecting parts of the United States, with over 39 million people under heat alerts. The National Weather Service has reported temperatures exceeding 100°F in several areas, with a high of 119°F recorded near Topock, Arizona, and Tecopa, California. The heat dome, which previously impacted the central and eastern U.S., has shifted westward, intensifying conditions in the Southwest. Extreme heat warnings are in place across six states, including Arizona, California, Nevada, Utah, Oklahoma, and western Arkansas. These warnings are expected to remain through the weekend, with some areas under alert until Monday night. The heat index, which accounts for humidity, could reach 120°F in parts of southern Arizona and South Texas.

Heat Wave Puts 39 Million Americans Under Alerts as Temperatures Soar

Heat Wave Puts 39 Million Americans Under Alerts as Temperatures Soar

A severe heat wave is affecting parts of the United States, with over 39 million people under heat alerts. Temperatures have soared above 100°F in several areas, with a high of 119°F recorded near Topock, Arizona, and Tecopa, California. The 'heat dome' responsible for these extreme conditions has shifted west, intensifying the heat in the Southwest and expected to expand into the intermountain West and northern High Plains. Extreme heat warnings are in effect across six states, including Arizona, California, and Nevada, with temperatures forecasted to reach 110-120°F in some desert locations.

Arizona Republic

What Nancy Guthrie's life can teach about avoiding loneliness

What Nancy Guthrie's life can teach about avoiding loneliness

In the six months since Nancy Guthrie's mysterious abduction, a portrait has emerged of a highly social and well-connected woman, even in older age.

Climate Change Impacting Sleep Patterns in U.S. Cities Due to Rising Nighttime Temperatures

Climate Change Impacting Sleep Patterns in U.S. Cities Due to Rising Nighttime Temperatures

A recent analysis by Climate Central reveals that climate change is significantly affecting sleep patterns in U.S. cities due to rising nighttime temperatures. The study, which examined data from 253 U.S. cities between 2020 and 2025, found that residents lost an average of 36 hours of sleep annually due to higher nighttime temperatures. Of this, approximately four hours, or 13%, were attributed to human-induced climate change. The cities most affected include those in Arizona, California, Florida, and Nevada, where residents experienced between seven and nine hours of sleep loss per year linked to climate change. The analysis utilized Climate Central’s Climate Shift Index to estimate the influence of climate change on daily temperatures, highlighting a growing trend of sleep disruption due to warmer nights.

Western U.S. Faces Prolonged Heatwave Due to Building Atmospheric Ridge

Western U.S. Faces Prolonged Heatwave Due to Building Atmospheric Ridge

A significant atmospheric ridge is developing over the southwestern United States, leading to a prolonged heatwave expected to persist into August. This ridge, centered over Southern California and Arizona, is anticipated to bring record-breaking temperatures and elevated humidity levels, particularly in Southern California. The heatwave is characterized by high 500mb geopotential heights, indicating extreme atmospheric conditions. The warm ocean temperatures along the California coast are contributing to the elevated humidity, making the heat more oppressive. The National Weather Service has issued heat advisories and warnings, highlighting the potential for health impacts due to the combination of heat and humidity.

Climate Change Contributes to Sleep Loss Across U.S. Cities

Climate Change Contributes to Sleep Loss Across U.S. Cities

A recent analysis by Climate Central reveals that climate change is causing significant sleep loss due to rising nighttime temperatures. Between 2020 and 2025, people in 253 U.S. cities lost an average of 36 hours of sleep annually, with about 13% of this loss attributed to human-caused climate change. The most affected states include Arizona, California, Florida, and Nevada. The study highlights the growing impact of climate change on sleep quality, as warmer nights disrupt the body's cooling process, leading to shorter sleep duration and reduced quality.

Hot Weather in Arizona Drives Lettuce Price Surge and Cyclospora Outbreak

Hot Weather in Arizona Drives Lettuce Price Surge and Cyclospora Outbreak

Arizona's unusually hot weather in early 2026 has significantly impacted lettuce production, causing prices to rise sharply. The U.S. Department of Agriculture reported a 33% increase in fresh lettuce costs compared to the previous year. Additionally, a cyclospora outbreak linked to shredded iceberg lettuce has sickened over 6,700 Americans, according to the CDC as of July 27, 2026. The outbreak initially affected Taco Bell restaurants in several states, prompting the removal of lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms and subsequent recalls. Other restaurant chains, including Chipotle and Chopt, have also reported reduced sales due to consumer concerns. The outbreak highlights the challenges faced by the lettuce industry, compounded by supply gaps and rising fuel costs.