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New COVID Subvariant 'Cicada' Emerges in California, Raising Concerns for Summer Surge

New COVID Subvariant 'Cicada' Emerges in California, Raising Concerns for Summer Surge

A new COVID-19 subvariant, known as 'Cicada', is spreading in California, raising concerns about a potential summer surge in cases. This subvariant, identified as BA.3.2, has shown the ability to evade immunity from previous infections and vaccinations, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The emergence of Cicada comes as COVID-19 has shifted to more of a summer disease in California, with recent summer peaks surpassing winter ones. Experts, including Dr. Neil Silverman from UCLA, warn that the subvariant could lead to increased cases, particularly among seniors who have lower vaccination rates. The California Department of Public Health has noted that while the subvariant is present in wastewater samples, it has not yet led to increased severity of illness.

California Considers Wildlife Coexistence Program Following Public Outcry Over Bear Euthanasia

California Considers Wildlife Coexistence Program Following Public Outcry Over Bear Euthanasia

In response to public outrage over the euthanization of a mama bear in Monrovia, California lawmakers are considering a bill to establish a Wildlife Coexistence Program. The proposed legislation, introduced by Sen. Catherine Blakespear, aims to promote nonlethal methods for managing human-wildlife interactions. The program would provide public education, technical assistance, and a statewide incident reporting system. It also seeks to rename and expand a compensation program for ranchers affected by wolf predation, requiring them to use approved nonlethal deterrents. The bill has garnered support from over 30 organizations but faces opposition from agricultural groups concerned about funding.

California Hybrid Bees Show Natural Resistance to Varroa Mites, Reducing Chemical Dependency

California Hybrid Bees Show Natural Resistance to Varroa Mites, Reducing Chemical Dependency

In Southern California, a unique hybrid bee population is demonstrating a natural ability to control Varroa mite infestations, a significant threat to honeybee colonies across the United States. According to research from UC Riverside, these bees, originating from a naturally mixed population, carry about 68% fewer mites compared to commercial colonies. The study, led by Genesis Chong-Echavez, tracked 236 colonies over three years and found that these bees are significantly less reliant on chemical treatments. The hybrid bees, which combine traits from African, Eastern European, Middle Eastern, and Western European lineages, show less mite attraction during the larval stage, suggesting a genetic basis for their resistance.

Cool Carriers Chile Reports Strong Results Despite U.S. Fruit Demand Decline

Cool Carriers Chile Reports Strong Results Despite U.S. Fruit Demand Decline

Cool Carriers Chile Reports Strong Results Despite U.S. Fruit Demand Decline

Survey Reveals Americans Increasingly Value Travel for Personal Growth and Discovery

Survey Reveals Americans Increasingly Value Travel for Personal Growth and Discovery

Survey Reveals Americans Increasingly Value Travel for Personal Growth and Discovery

California's Water System Embraces Solar Energy to Meet Decarbonization Goals

California's Water System Embraces Solar Energy to Meet Decarbonization Goals

California has launched the Pastoria Solar Project, a significant renewable energy initiative aimed at powering the state's water delivery system. Located near the Edmonston Pumping Plant, the project is part of the California Department of Water Resources' (DWR) plan to decarbonize its operations by 2035. The solar plant, featuring 226,000 panels, is expected to provide substantial power to the water system, which is one of the largest electricity consumers in the state. The project also includes an 80-megawatt battery storage system and a natural gas-fired plant to ensure energy reliability. This initiative is a response to the increasing energy demands and the need for sustainable solutions amid climate change challenges.

California Judge Blocks Trump-Backed Oil Pipeline Restart, Upholding State Authority

California Judge Blocks Trump-Backed Oil Pipeline Restart, Upholding State Authority

A California judge has ruled against a Trump administration initiative to restart oil pipelines off the Central Coast, emphasizing that federal orders do not override state regulations. The ruling by Santa Barbara County Superior Court Judge Donna Geck maintains a preliminary injunction against Sable Offshore Corp., preventing the company from resuming pipeline operations until it complies with state and local laws. The Trump administration had previously invoked the Defense Production Act to push for the pipeline restart, arguing it preempted state laws. Environmental groups and California Governor Gavin Newsom have hailed the decision as a victory for state authority and environmental protection.

California's New Solar Project Powers Water Infrastructure Amid Rising Energy Demand

California's New Solar Project Powers Water Infrastructure Amid Rising Energy Demand

California has launched the Pastoria Solar Project, a 105-megawatt solar plant aimed at powering the Edmonston Pumping Plant, a key component of the state's water delivery system. This project is part of California's plan to fully decarbonize operations by 2035. The solar plant is co-located with an 80-megawatt battery storage bank and a 750-megawatt natural gas-fired plant, providing energy reliability. The project comes as California faces rising energy demand due to artificial intelligence data centers, putting pressure on grids strained by extreme heat and aging infrastructure. The solar plant represents a major step in the California Department of Water Resources' efforts to achieve clean energy goals.

Trump wants to stop states from regulating AI. This Utah Republican isn't listening

Trump wants to stop states from regulating AI. This Utah Republican isn't listening

Doug Fiefia once worked at Google

Investigation Launched After Boy Shot and Killed in Baldwin Park

Investigation Launched After Boy Shot and Killed in Baldwin Park

A tragic incident occurred in Baldwin Park, California, where a male juvenile was shot and killed early Saturday morning. The Baldwin Park Police Department responded to the scene on Bess Avenue, where the victim was pronounced dead. The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department is assisting in the investigation, but details about the suspect or motive remain unclear. Authorities are seeking information from the public to aid in the investigation.

Factbox-Seventeen people have died in US immigration custody this year, ICE says

Factbox-Seventeen people have died in US immigration custody this year, ICE says

By Ted Hesson April 18 (Reuters) - At least 17 immigrants have died in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody from January 2026 through early April, according to ICE. That follows 31 deaths last year, a two-decade high.

U.S. Hydropower Generation Set to Increase Despite Snow Drought Challenges

U.S. Hydropower Generation Set to Increase Despite Snow Drought Challenges

The U.S. Energy Information Administration's April Short-Term Energy Outlook (STEO) forecasts a 5% increase in U.S. hydropower generation in 2026, despite ongoing snow drought conditions in several states. This increase follows a rise in hydropower generation to 245 billion kilowatthours (BkWh) in 2025, up from a record low in 2024. The 2026 projection of 259 BkWh would account for 6% of U.S. electricity generation. Seasonal precipitation, including rain and snowpack, plays a crucial role in predicting water supply and hydropower output. However, record warm winter temperatures have led to snow droughts, particularly affecting California, the Southwest, and parts of the Northwest. These conditions are expected to impact water supply and hydropower generation in the spring and summer months.