Better Planet
California facing 'invisible water surcharge'
Researchers found that an increase in crop water demand explains a great deal of "half of the cumulative deficits of the agricultural water balance" since 1980.
Dogs have even more benefits to humans, study finds
A study found that spending quality time with canine companions can increase the power of brain waves linked to concentration.
Immigrants 'significantly less likely' to commit crimes than US-born
The disparity in incarceration rates between immigrants and U.S. nationals has widened since 1960, and stands now at 60 percent.
Scientists discover why cheetahs are so fast
Scientists found there is a sweet spot for fast animals that allows them to run as fast as they do.
Utah water update as snowpack builds up
The state's reservoirs are currently at 83 percent, which is 22 percent higher than usual, meaning good things for water supply.
Cosmic expansion mystery suggests "we have misunderstood the universe"
Astronomers may be one step closer to solving a never-ending cosmic puzzle about how fast the universe is expanding.
Minnesota lakes "setting new records" for early ice-out
"There are 110 lakes with lake ice out reports on the DNR webpage and more are coming in each day," a climatologist told Newsweek.
Better Planet
US weather patterns could change with Arctic sea ice loss
Once ice depletes, the heat of the ocean escapes and enters the atmosphere, meaning cold weather events are warmer than usual.
Alligator attack in Florida Everglades sees man airlifted to hospital
Emergency services responded to the incident that occurred near the entrance to the Everglades National Park on Sunday afternoon.
Secrets of hammerhead sharks revealed in "very rare" images
A series of pictures show how the hammerhead starts to widen halfway through the sharks' gestation period.
Yosemite sees 47 inches of snowfall as national parks give storm updates
Crater Lake National Park in southern Oregon also reported 77.9 inches of snowfall following winter storms.
California's plan to store more storm water against future drought
Officials have announced a new groundwater mapping project that will provide "critical information" about the underground water supply.
Atmospheric rivers "double-edged sword" for water in California
While the weather phenomenon helps water supply, it also comes with consequences including floods and landslides, an expert told Newsweek.
Seal attacks eagle in photos of "never before seen" tactic
A birdwatcher caught a photo of the seal leaping from the water and spitting water at the predator.
Sierra Nevada snowpack turns around after blizzard
As of March 5, snowpack levels for the entire Sierra Nevada were at 104 percent of average.
'Food of the gods': Archaeologists discover historical fact about chocolate
The cacao tree faces a number of threats, including climate change, but a study revealing its genetic history and diversity will help scientists address these.
Lake Mead water update as final Colorado River plan released
The proposal aims to save around 3 million acre-feet of water by the end of 2026, the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation reported.
Great white sharks arrive in Florida in time for spring break
Two great white sharks were tracked in the Florida panhandle on March 5.
Southern California's largest natural lake swells after atmospheric rivers
Lake Elsinore, in western Riverside County, currently lies at an elevation of 1248 feet, the highest level since 2011.
Better Planet
Study warns of largest US cities to face "significant flooding"
Miami and New Orleans are among the five cities found to be most at risk.
Mass Salmon Death in California From Gas Bubble Disease
Officials said the disease — caused by a severe pressure change — likely originated as the fish migrated though a Dam tunnel on the Klamath River.
Psychologist reveals "simple" new way to reduce anxiety
Spending just 15 minutes observing butterflies helped people feel more connected with nature.
Most of North America's lizards species now "at risk"
Although some lizards may be able to adapt to warming temperatures, if deforestation continues, they could be threatened.
Death Valley's lake is vanishing again
The temporary lake, which was deep enough for people to kayak on, has begun to recede.
Scientists discover exception to 200-year-old natural law
"Sometimes creativity requires that you put the textbook aside for a moment," Steve Granick of the University of Massachusetts Amherst said of the discovery.
Mercury levels in tuna aren't decreasing
Mercury poisoning can affect the nervous system, causing problems with fertility and blood pressure, as well as developmental delays in young children.
Strange seismic signals lead to discovery of upside-down ocean crust
The seismic signals were produced as part of an earthquake that occurred deep underneath Spain.
Yosemite gives snowpack update following rare blizzard
Yosemite's team measured the Merced River drainage, which was at 72 percent of average snowpack, while the Tuolumne River stood at 83 percent.
Great white shark washes up on beach, shocking crowd
The rare stranding occurred after the great white shark thrashed in the shallows off a popular Australian beach.
Scientists reveal why the color green makes us feel good
New research found that a lack of greenery can lead to negative psychological responses in humans, and even lead to feelings of depression.