Storms are dumping more rain in shorter bursts across the West than in years past, but longer stretches between them may leave the land drier over time. Researchers say a shifting climate raises concern about long-term drought and wildfire risk. Scientists say it’s not just how much rain falls — it’s how it arrives. A new analysis found heavier downpours often leave more water sitting on the surface, where it’s more likely to evaporate instead of soaking into soils or groundwater.
Corey Lesk, a climate scientist at the University of Quebec in Montreal and co-author of the study, said, “You’re asking the land to drink from a firehose.” Researchers say the findings suggest the West could face a difficult balancing act in the years ahead, managing flood risks from stronger storms while also preparing for longer and potentially more severe droughts.
The collapse of Spirit Airlines isn’t the only curveball confronting people planning summer trips. Rising jet fuel costs tied to the Iran war have pushed up airfares and associated fees across the industry. Two of the remaining U.S. budget carriers just finalized a merger. The developments illustrate how difficult it’s gotten for low-cost airlines to operate while squeezed by jet fuel prices, changing consumer preferences and competition. For decades, budget carriers thrived by targeting price-conscious passengers, but big airlines like American, Delta and United have gotten better at tailoring prices to different travelers and matching low fares. Major carriers also can more easily generate revenue to offset higher fuel costs. Read the full story from the Associated Press here.
The Clark County School Board approved a new plan meant to improve the district over the next five years. The plan sets several goals for 2031, including increasing the district’s K-3 literacy proficiency by 60 percent, raising the graduation rate to 90 percent and ensuring that at least 60 percent of those graduates are college and career ready. The district will focus on academic excellence, career-connected learning and safe, supportive schools. Superintendent Jhone Ebert told the board it’s part of her overall effort to make CCSD a “destination district.” Ebert’s goals are lofty. The school district failed to meet many of the goals outlined in its previous five-year strategic plan, passed in 2019, which included similar benchmarks.
Conor McGregor is returning to the octagon. UFC CEO Dana White announced on Saturday that McGregor will return for a rematch against Max Holloway in the UFC 329 main event on July 11 in Las Vegas. The 37-year-old Irishman has not fought since breaking his leg in a fight against Dustin Poirier in 2021 and has faced a series of legal issues. An Irish jury found him liable in a civil sexual assault case from an incident in 2018, which was upheld by Ireland’s High Court in July. McGregor was the UFC’s first double champion in 2016 with a win over Eddie Alvarez but has lost three of his past four matches. He also fought Floyd Mayweather Jr. in a boxing match in 2017. Read the full story from the Associated Press here.
Chelsea Gray made a fadeaway jumper in the lane with 3.6 seconds to play, and the Las Vegas Aces beat the Atlanta Dream 85-84 on Sunday. Gray led the Aces with 21 points, while A’ja Wilson and Chennedy Carter added 20 apiece. Wilson moved past Aces coach Becky Hammon (5,841) into 19th on the WNBA’s career scoring list with 5,844 points. Gray was 5 for 8 from 3-point range and had six assists. Atlanta’s Angel Reese had nine points on 1-of-8 shooting, with eight rebounds and eight turnovers. The Aces (4-1), the defending WNBA champions, have won four straight since a 99-66 home loss to Phoenix in the opener. Read the full story from the Associated Press here.
