california
Newsletter
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New map reveals nearly half of the US faces landslide risk
Government scientists have released new data showing that 44% of the U.S. is at risk of experiencing landslides, with some areas particularly vulnerable.
In short:
- A new interactive map from the U.S. Geological Survey identifies nearly 44% of the U.S. as susceptible to landslides.
- High-risk areas include Appalachia, the Rocky Mountains, the California coast, southeast Alaska and Puerto Rico, where more than 90% of the territory is at risk.
- Landslides are often triggered by heavy rain and human development, with climate change increasing the likelihood of intense rainfall events.
Key quote:
“The best protection is knowledge. Knowing what a landslide is and how it might impact you is the best first step toward preparation.”
— Benjamin Mirus, research geologist with the United States Geological Survey
Why this matters:
Landslides pose a significant hazard, especially as climate change increases extreme rainfall, which is a primary trigger. Understanding landslide risks helps communities prepare and reduce the potential for devastating loss of life and property.
Related coverage: California's Highway 1 faces increasing threats
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California music festival linked to rise in fungal infections
At least 19 people have contracted valley fever, a fungal infection that can sometimes be fatal, after attending a music festival in Southern California this past May.
In short:
- Valley fever is caused by inhaling Coccidioides, a fungus found in soil in the US Southwest.
- Of the 19 confirmed cases from the festival, eight were hospitalized.
- California has seen a sharp rise in valley fever cases, fueled by climate change and soil disturbances.
Key quote:
“We’re preparing for another possible increase in valley fever cases in the coming months, and we want Californians to know the signs and symptoms to detect it early.”
— Dr. Tomás Aragón, state public health officer
Why this matters:
Valley fever poses a growing health risk as climate change makes areas in the US Southwest more favorable for the fungus. Public awareness is key to early detection and treatment, especially as the number of infections continues to rise.
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Berkeley aims to tax large buildings for natural gas use after gas ban repeal
Berkeley residents will vote in November on a first-of-its-kind tax targeting natural gas consumption in large buildings to fund the city's transition to electric alternatives.
In short:
- The proposed tax targets buildings more than 15,000 square feet, charging $2.96 per 100 cubic feet of gas used.
- Expected to generate $26.7 million annually, 90% of funds will go to electric retrofits in homes and buildings.
- The measure faces legal scrutiny similar to the gas ban but proponents believe it will hold up in court.
Key quote:
“People look to Berkeley as a bellwether for progressive climate action as well as an incubator of ideas. Someone needs to be putting ideas out there, and we think that has been and can continue to be Berkeley.”
— Daniel Tahara, lead organizer, Fossil Free Berkeley
Why this matters:
Shifting large buildings to electric power is crucial for reducing carbon emissions. Berkeley's tax could set a national precedent for how cities fund and enforce decarbonization policies.
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Indigenous fire practices show potential for wildfire resilience in California
A Miwok fire practitioner sees signs of renewal in wildfire-scorched California landscapes, advocating for wider use of Indigenous cultural burns to manage land and reduce wildfire risks.
In short:
- Don Hankins, a Miwok cultural fire expert, observes ecological resilience in areas managed with cultural burns during the Park Fire in Northern California.
- Indigenous fire practices, which have been restricted by historical policies, show promise in reducing wildfire intensity by promoting native species and reducing flammable grasses.
- Despite success on smaller scales, significant policy barriers prevent widespread adoption of cultural burns.
Key quote:
“Indigenous communities often recognize colonization as the beginning of the climate crisis.”
— Don Hankins, cultural fire practitioner
Why this matters:
Indigenous fire practices could play a crucial role in mitigating wildfire risks as climate change intensifies. Addressing policy barriers may allow these methods to be implemented more widely, enhancing ecological resilience.
Related: LISTEN: Deniss Martinez on Indigenous science and cultural fire practices
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Oil industry faces pressure as California activists push for 'polluter pays' bills
Activists rallied outside California's Capitol, urging legislators to pass bills that would hold oil companies accountable for environmental damage as the legislative session nears its end.
In short:
- Three bills aim to strengthen local control over oil and gas operations, accelerate the decommissioning of idle wells, and impose penalties on low-producing wells.
- Activists argue the bills are crucial for protecting vulnerable communities from pollution linked to fossil fuel extraction.
- The oil industry is opposing the bills, citing concerns about increased reliance on foreign oil and potential job losses.
Key quote:
“We’re here today to push back against Big Oil’s influence in Sacramento. We’re here to show that the people have the power.”
— Woody Little, campaign lead at Last Chance Alliance
Why this matters:
These bills could help prevent further environmental harm in California communities already burdened by pollution. If passed, they may set a precedent for stricter oil industry regulations nationwide.
Be sure to read:
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California plans significant changes to insurance rules as wildfires increase risk
California regulators propose major insurance reforms to address soaring costs and dwindling options for homeowners in wildfire-prone areas.
In short:
- California is considering updates to Proposition 103, which currently limits insurance rate changes, to require firms to cover high-risk areas based on market share.
- The proposal includes using "catastrophe modeling" to better assess wildfire risks, though its impact on rates is debated.
- Experts worry that while these changes may attract insurers back, they could also raise costs for consumers.
Key quote:
"We are nervous. The reality is that prices are so high already, and affordability is so low right now."
— Amy Bach, executive director of United Policyholders
Why this matters:
As wildfires worsen, Californians face fewer and costlier insurance options. These reforms could determine whether homeowners in high-risk areas can find or afford coverage. Read more: Insurance woes increase as climate change impacts profitability.
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California reduces safety inspections as farmworkers face worsening heat
California has reduced enforcement of outdoor heat protection laws even as farmworkers endure increasingly extreme temperatures, with inspections by Cal/OSHA dropping nearly 30% since 2017.
In short:
- From 2017 to 2023, Cal/OSHA inspections for outdoor heat safety decreased by almost 30%, with violations issued to employers falling by over 40%.
- Farmworkers report frequent violations of safety laws, including lack of shade and water, amid ongoing agency staffing shortages.
- California lawmakers are considering legislation to strengthen enforcement and ensure compensation for heat-related injuries.
Key quote:
“We just need Cal/OSHA to be out there more often and do more inspections that hopefully will save farmworker lives.”
— Ephraim Camacho, community worker for California Rural Legal Assistance
Why this matters:
As climate change drives temperatures higher, vulnerable outdoor workers face increased health risks, and weakened enforcement of heat protection laws puts their lives in greater danger.
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