Explore

1Weather 1Weather
Heat Domes Projected to Double in Northwestern North America by 2080

Heat Domes Projected to Double in Northwestern North America by 2080

A recent climatology study has revealed that heat domes, large high-pressure air masses trapping hot air and suppressing precipitation, are becoming increasingly common in North America. This phenomenon is closely linked to human-caused climate change. In July 2026, a heat dome over the Western U.S. caused record-breaking temperatures, including a peak of 115°F (46.1°C) in Miles City, Montana. The study projects that the frequency of heat domes in northwestern North America could nearly double by 2080 if carbon emissions remain high. Extreme heat events like these are contributing to increased rates of heat-related illnesses, with Colorado reporting its highest medical visit rates for such conditions since data collection began in 2019 (Colorado Sun, 2026).
Rapid Read Rapid Read
Moose Fire Prompts Evacuation Orders as It Burns Over 4,000 Acres

Moose Fire Prompts Evacuation Orders as It Burns Over 4,000 Acres

The Moose Fire, located 24 miles southwest of Philipsburg, Montana, has burned 4,314 acres and remains uncontained. Evacuation orders have been issued for the Frog Pond Basin, while warnings are in place for areas south of the Highway 38 junction with Moose Lake Road. The fire, which started on July 26, has been fueled by low humidity and gusty winds, leading to rapid growth. Firefighters, supported by aircraft scooping water from Georgetown Lake, are working to protect structures and strengthen containment lines. The fire's behavior is expected to remain aggressive due to continued warm and dry weather conditions.
1Weather 1Weather
July 2026: Hottest Month on Record in the U.S.

July 2026: Hottest Month on Record in the U.S.

The United States experienced its hottest month on record in July 2026, with widespread heat waves and drought conditions affecting much of the country. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, around 40% of the U.S. and Puerto Rico were in drought by the end of the month. Several regions also faced extreme weather events, including heavy rainfall and flash flooding. For instance, the Texas Hill Country saw over 28 inches of rain from July 13 to 17, while eastern New York experienced nearly 12 inches of rain from July 28 to 30. NOAA reported that Wyoming had its warmest July and month ever, with temperatures 5.1°F (2.8°C) above average. Record-breaking temperatures were also observed in Idaho, Utah, Wyoming, and Montana, with highs reaching up to 115°F (46.1°C) in Miles City, Montana.
Rapid Read Rapid Read
Rhode Island's 'Taylor Swift Tax' Aims to Address Housing Shortages

Rhode Island's 'Taylor Swift Tax' Aims to Address Housing Shortages

Rhode Island has enacted a new property tax, colloquially known as the 'Taylor Swift Tax', targeting high-end vacation homes that are often left vacant. The tax imposes a surcharge on properties not occupied for more than half the year, with the revenue intended to support housing affordability initiatives. The tax is named after pop star Taylor Swift, who owns a mansion in the state. Officials in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, are considering a similar measure to address local housing shortages, as rising property values have made it difficult for year-round residents to afford homes.
1Weather 1Weather
Air Quality Alert in Effect Amid Wildfire Smoke in Montana

Air Quality Alert in Effect Amid Wildfire Smoke in Montana

Wildfire smoke has heavily settled across northwest Montana, leading to reduced air quality and visibility. An AIR QUALITY ALERT is in effect until 9 a.m. Monday for multiple counties, including Beaverhead, Flathead, and Missoula, due to elevated particulate levels. Dry and breezy conditions are expected tomorrow, particularly in southwest Montana near Dillon, where wind gusts up to 30 mph are forecast. These conditions may lead to elevated fire weather concerns. A cooling trend is anticipated later in the week, with chances for precipitation and thunderstorms starting Wednesday, especially along the Continental Divide.
Trendline Trendline
U.S. Attorney's Office Recovers $850,000 in Montana Dairy Fraud Case

U.S. Attorney's Office Recovers $850,000 in Montana Dairy Fraud Case

U.S. Attorney's Office Recovers $850,000 in Montana Dairy Fraud Case
Rapid Read Rapid Read
Montana DEQ Issues Air Quality Alert Amidst Widespread Wildfires

Montana DEQ Issues Air Quality Alert Amidst Widespread Wildfires

The Montana Department of Environmental Quality has issued an air quality alert for several counties due to smoke from regional wildfires. As of August 7, 2026, particulate levels in Columbia Falls, Dillon, and Libby are considered unhealthy, while other areas like Butte and Missoula are unhealthy for sensitive groups. The smoke is primarily from wildfires in Oregon and Washington, with local fires in the Pioneer and Sapphire Mountains also contributing. The Bobcat Lakes Fire and Sand Creek Fire are among the most active, burning thousands of acres. Weather conditions, including a ridge of high pressure, are exacerbating the situation by trapping smoke in valleys. The forecast suggests that monsoonal moisture may bring some relief next week, but the risk of dry thunderstorms could ignite new fires.
Rapid Read Rapid Read
NYC Landlords File Lawsuit Against Rent Guidelines Board Over Rent Freeze

NYC Landlords File Lawsuit Against Rent Guidelines Board Over Rent Freeze

Landlords in New York City have filed a lawsuit against the Rent Guidelines Board (RGB) following the board's decision to implement a rent freeze on over one million rent-stabilized apartments. The freeze, which applies to one- and two-year leases, includes exemptions for seniors and disabled tenants. The landlords argue that the RGB's decision was politically motivated, claiming that Mayor Zohran Mamdani influenced the board's composition to favor the freeze. The lawsuit alleges that the RGB overstepped its authority and that the decision was a political attack. Despite the landlords' claims, the RGB's decision was supported by public hearings and data analysis. The rent freeze is seen as a response to the rising cost of living in NYC, where many tenants are struggling with high rent burdens.
Trendline Trendline
Belgrade MT Commercial Development: Jackrabbit Lane Boom Drives Economic Growth

Belgrade MT Commercial Development: Jackrabbit Lane Boom Drives Economic Growth

Belgrade MT Commercial Development: Jackrabbit Lane Boom Drives Economic Growth
Rapid Read Rapid Read
Understanding Heat-Related Illnesses During Montana's Summer Heat

Understanding Heat-Related Illnesses During Montana's Summer Heat

Meteorologist Mitchel Coombs explores the impact of heat on the human body using 3D technology. As temperatures rise during the summer, the risk of heat-related illnesses increases. The body's cooling mechanism, sweat, becomes less effective in humid conditions, leading to potential health risks such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating and dizziness, while heat stroke is more severe, requiring immediate medical attention. Residents are advised to stay hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to heat.
Trendline Trendline
Montana Copper Explorer Initiates 9,000m Drill Program at Smart Creek

Montana Copper Explorer Initiates 9,000m Drill Program at Smart Creek

Montana Copper Explorer Initiates 9,000m Drill Program at Smart Creek
Rapid Read Rapid Read
Governor Gianforte Seeks Public Input on Montana Public Service Commission Applicants

Governor Gianforte Seeks Public Input on Montana Public Service Commission Applicants

Governor Greg Gianforte of Montana has announced a call for public comments regarding applicants for a temporary appointment to the Montana Public Service Commission. The public is invited to submit letters of support or comments about the applicants until August 20, 5 p.m. Mountain Time. The applications are available for review on the governor's official website. The governor's office has requested that comments be submitted via email or mail, and these will be made publicly available online. This initiative is part of the governor's process to ensure transparency and public involvement in the appointment process.