New Mexico's largest wildfire and its aftermath

The largest wildfire in New Mexico state history, accidentally ignited by the U.S. government, has transformed survivors into experts on forest management, disaster aid, and resilience.

Byard Duncan and Patrick Lohmann report for ProPublica and Source New Mexico.

In short:

The Hermits Peak-Calf Canyon Fire, caused by a federal prescribed burn, devastated communities, highlighting the increasing frequency of such disasters in the U.S.
Survivors face challenges with FEMA's slow and bureaucratic aid process, struggling with trauma, property loss, and the daunting task of rebuilding.
The incident raises questions about forest management practices, accountability in disaster prevention, and the long-term impact on affected communities.

Key quote:

"With climate collapse, this scenario is set to repeat itself over and over across the country."

— Cyn Palmer, retired wildlife manager

Why this matters:

This story sheds light on the broader issue of climate change and its impact on disaster frequency and severity, underscoring the need for effective forest management and disaster response strategies.

Be sure to read: One of the most overlooked consequences of climate change? Our mental health.

www.propublica.org

New Mexico's largest wildfire and its aftermath

Senate moves to gut clean energy tax credits as deal nears

UN climate talks face growing backlash over corporate influence and stalled action

Climate scientist warns Earth is approaching tipping points that could reshape the planet

Extreme heat and wildfires surge across southern Europe as temperatures break records

Hotter heat waves are sticking around as the planet keeps warming

Rising seas may erase land, but not national identity, legal experts say

Old satellites vital to hurricane tracking will soon stop transmitting data

Multiple Houston-area oil and gas facilities that have violated pollution laws are seeking permit renewals

One facility has emitted cancer-causing chemicals into waterways at levels up to 520% higher than legal limits.

Pennsylvania health advocates say Trump’s first 100 days in office have caused “100 harms” to local communities

“They're terrorizing these scientists because they want to keep them silent.”

Regulators are underestimating health impacts from air pollution: Study

"The reality is, we are not exposed to one chemical at a time.”

Two years into his term, has Gov. Shapiro kept his promises to regulate Pennsylvania’s fracking industry?

A new report assesses the administration’s progress and makes new recommendations

An open letter from EPA staff to the American public

“We cannot stand by and allow this to happen. We need to hold this administration accountable.”

New evidence links heavy metal pollution with wildfire retardants

“The chemical black box” that blankets wildfire-impacted areas is increasingly under scrutiny.