What is an atmospheric river? The weather phenomenon, explained.
Atmospheric rivers can be beneficial — but also destructive. Here's what to know about the weather phenomenon on the West Coast and beyond.
Atmospheric River
Another atmospheric river takes aim at California as flooding risk grows
One county has urged people to gather enough essential supplies for two weeks ahead of the incoming rain and snow.
California pummeled by heavy rain amid another round of storms
A series of atmospheric rivers are responsible for the storms which have battered California since late December.
Storms soak California after drought
More than 25 trillion gallons of water have fallen on California since late December due to a series of storms. All that rain has come as the Golden State deals with a drought. Jeffrey Mount, a senior fellow at the Public Policy Institute of California, explained the precarious water situation in the West.
24.5 trillion gallons of rain have pelted California, student scientist estimates
Heavy storms driven by atmospheric rivers have been hitting California for weeks.
Tracking the storms as they hit South, California
The Southeast is facing severe weather, including tornadoes, as the rain in California is expected to keep up through the weekend. The Weather Channel's Mike Bettes has the forecast.
California facing more storms and flooding
At least 18 people have been killed as the result of severe weather in California, and the state is bracing for another series of storms. CBS News correspondent Carter Evans joins Errol Barnett and Lana Zak from Santa Cruz, California, with more.
Search resumes for missing California boy
A search entered its third day Wednesday for missing 5-year-old Kyle Doan, who was swept away from his mother's arms by powerful flood waters near San Luis Obispo, California, on Monday. Most of California has received 600% of its normal rainfall in the past two weeks, according to the National Weather Service, as residents battle deadly flooding which has submerged homes and created sinkholes and landslides amid a series of powerful storms driven by atmospheric rivers. Carter Evans has the latest.
Search continues for 5-year-old swept away by California floodwaters
Kyle Doan was pulled from his parents' car and into the San Marcos Creek near San Miguel on Monday, officials have said.
Calif. rushes to clean up and start repairs ahead of expected rain resumption
Most of the storm-pummeled state is forecast to have a brief pause before more rain hits. But some estimates to repair the damage already done are in the $1 billion range.
Severe storms batter California
There is no rest for the West as the latest atmospheric river continued to dump buckets of water on California, causing major flooding and power outages, and forcing thousands to evacuate. The death toll from the storm continues to climb. CBS News correspondent Carter Evans reports from Santa Barbara County.
Inundated California facing even more rain as deadly storms continue
Actual or possible flooding, mudslides and rockslides closed roads and forced thousands to evacuate, while the death toll ticked up.
Atmospheric river storm turns deadly
California is getting slammed by another powerful winter storm. CBS News national correspondent Jonathan Vigliotti joins Elaine Quijano from Northern California to discuss the impact.
Latest California atmospheric river storm quickly turns deadly
It's already being blamed for at least two deaths including that of a toddler. The storm is bringing high winds, heavy rain, flooding, widespread power outages and possible mudslides.
State of emergency in California as massive storm unleashes flooding
A major storm known as an atmospheric river is dropping massive amounts of rain across a wide swath of California.
Tracking the atmospheric river hitting California
The Weather Channel's Chris Warren has more on where the wet weather is headed next as it soaks parts of California.
Atmospheric river threatens storm-weary West
A major storm known as an atmospheric river is drenching parts of California and causing flooding. Jonathan Vigliotti has the latest.
Another atmospheric river is hitting California. What's behind all these storms?
They are an important part of the world's ocean water cycle, often contributing to water supplies — but also can bring destruction.
Atmospheric river bring flooding, landslides into New Year's weekend
The storm began sweeping across the northern part of the state Friday.
Toy industry bracing for impact of Trump's promised tariffs
Toy stores and the toy industry are warning that his pledge to add tariffs to Chinese imports could harm their businesses.
3 shot, 1 stabbed in Christmas night dispute at Phoenix airport, police say
Gunfire rang out at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport on Christmas night and left three people wounded, police say. Another was stabbed. One was in critical condition.
Beyoncé's halftime show the highlight of a lackluster NFL Christmas slate
Beyoncé surprised fans by bringing out Shaboozey to perform "Sweet Honey Buckiin," and Post Malone joined her for "Levii's Jeans."
Baby found abandoned on street near Denver on Christmas morning, parents arrested
Two people have been arrested and are facing charges of felony child abuse after a one-month-old baby was discovered in the median of a road Christmas morning.
Girl, 8, missing, father dead after SUV swept away by Texas floodwaters
The tragic incident on Tuesday when her family's SUV left the roadway, got caught in a drainage ditch near U.S. 75 and Taylor Street, and was carried away by strong currents.
Plane crash in Kazakhstan killed dozens but many on board survived, officials say
Mobile phone footage circulating online appeared to show the Azerbaijani aircraft making a steep descent before slamming into the ground in a fireball.
6 hurt when taxi hits pedestrians in NYC's Herald Square
Six people were hurt including a young boy when a taxi hit pedestrians in NYC's Herald Square on Christmas Day.
Prison guard dead after Christmas morning assault by inmate, officials say
A corrections officer died after an assault by an inmate in an Ohio prison on Christmas morning, authorities say.
4 dead in New Hampshire from suspected carbon monoxide poisoning
Four people were found dead on Christmas in Wakefield, New Hampshire from suspected carbon monoxide poisoning, the fire marshal said.
U.S.
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3 shot, 1 stabbed in Christmas night dispute at Phoenix airport, police say
Gunfire rang out at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport on Christmas night and left three people wounded, police say. Another was stabbed. One was in critical condition.
What is Boxing Day? All about the celebration's origin and traditions
Boxing Day 2024 is here, but not all Americans understand the meaning of the holiday celebrated in countries like the U.K. and Canada.
Prison guard dead after Christmas morning assault by inmate, officials say
A corrections officer died after an assault by an inmate in an Ohio prison on Christmas morning, authorities say.
Beyoncé's halftime show the highlight of a lackluster NFL Christmas slate
Beyoncé surprised fans by bringing out Shaboozey to perform "Sweet Honey Buckiin," and Post Malone joined her for "Levii's Jeans."
The toy industry is bracing for the impact of Trump's promised tariffs
Toy stores and the toy industry are warning that Trump's pledge to add tariffs to Chinese imports could harm their businesses.
MoneyWatch
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The toy industry is bracing for the impact of Trump's promised tariffs
Toy stores and the toy industry are warning that Trump's pledge to add tariffs to Chinese imports could harm their businesses.
Pet food brand issues recall over bird flu contamination
A voluntary recall was issued for a line of raw and frozen pet food after a cat died of bird flu.
Lawyers for ex-Abercrombie CEO say he has dementia, can't stand trial
Defense lawyers say the former longtime CEO of Abercrombie & Fitch may have dementia, prompting a competency hearing.
Is anything open on Christmas Day? Here's what's open and closed.
Last-minute grocery items and gifts can be found on Christmas Day, but many retailers and chains may be closed today.
Starbucks strike shuts down hundreds of locations
More than 5,000 workers were expected to take part in walkout that ends later on Christmas Eve, their union says.
Politics
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Trial of man accused in Trump assassination attempt in Florida pushed back
Ryan Wesley Routh is being held in Miami awaiting trial in Fort Pierce.
With Biden's signature, bald eagle officially America's bird
President Biden signed legislation Christmas Eve to make the bald eagle officially the U.S. national bird.
Biden signs 50 bills into law on Christmas Eve
Among the new laws signed by President Biden are Paris Hilton's bill to protect institutionalized teenagers and a bill to address hazing on college campuses.
Bill Clinton discharged from hospital after being treated for flu
Former President Bill Clinton was released from a hospital in Washington. D.C., on Christmas Eve, following an overnight stay for treatment of a fever and flu.
Biden signs defense bill, despite ban on transgender health care for military kids
President Biden has signed the annual defense authorization bill into law.
HealthWatch
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HealthWatch
Why some children are turning to GLP-1 drugs
A growing number of young people are receiving prescriptions for GLP-1 weight loss medications like Ozempic and Wegovy. Janet Shamlian examines why.
FDA raises urgency of Costco egg recall
The FDA has raised the level of a Costco egg recall, warning of the risk of severe illness or death due to potential salmonella contamination. Over 10,000 cartons of Kirkland brand organic eggs sold at stores across the South are affected. Customers are urged to discard or return eggs marked with Julian code 327 and a use-by date of Jan. 5, 2025.
Expert tips to support your immune system
With flu levels rising, Dr. Rabia De Latour shares ways to support your immune system and stay healthy during the holidays.
How to stay healthy during holiday gatherings
Seasonal illnesses are increasing just days away from the holidays. The CDC reports positive flu tests are up 9% in the most recent week and cases of whooping cough are six times last year's rate. Dr. Susannah Hills, an ear, nose and throat specialist at Columbia University Medical Center, explains how to stay safe.
Are you contagious? Here's when you're most likely to spread COVID, flu, RSV
How long are you contagious after getting COVID, flu, RSV, pneumonia and more? Here's what to know to keep others safe this holiday season.
World
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What is Boxing Day? All about the celebration's origin and traditions
Boxing Day 2024 is here, but not all Americans understand the meaning of the holiday celebrated in countries like the U.K. and Canada.
Over 100 migrants rescued trying to cross English Channel on Christmas
At least 73 migrants have died trying to cross the English Channel to Britain this year, according to French authorities, making 2024 the deadliest year on record for the crossings.
347 skiers rescued by helicopter in French Alps
Chairlifts at two different resorts in the French Alps broke down on Tuesday, stranding hundreds in two separate incidents.
Royal family celebrates Christmas with no sign of Prince Andrew
King Charles III was joined at Christmas services by close members of the royal family, including Prince William and Kate — but Prince Andrew was notably absent.
Bridge collapse in Brazil leaves at least 2 dead, dozen missing
A bridge linking two northern states in Brazil collapsed, sending cars and trucks plunging into the river below. A sulphuric acid spill is complicating the rescue operation.
Entertainment
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Beyoncé's halftime show the highlight of a lackluster NFL Christmas slate
Beyoncé surprised fans by bringing out Shaboozey to perform "Sweet Honey Buckiin," and Post Malone joined her for "Levii's Jeans."
Angel Blue on Met role debut in "Aida" and Opera journey
Angel Blue, who was recently named Classical Music's "Vocalist of the Year," is set to perform the title role in "Aida" at the Metropolitan Opera. Known for her Grammy-winning performances, Blue will take the stage in New York beginning on Dec. 31. She joins "CBS Mornings Plus."
Netflix carrying 2 NFL games on Christmas Day. It's a big step.
Netflix will have one of its biggest days Wednesday since the site launched in 1998 when it airs two NFL games for the first time.
Prosecutor drops appeal, ending case against Alec Baldwin in "Rust" shooting
The appeal had asked the court to reinstate charges, including involuntary manslaughter, against Alec Baldwin.
Denzel Washington gets minister's license at Harlem church
Just shy of his 70th birthday, Denzel Washington has a new line to add to an already impressive résumé.
Technology
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Technology
AI features dominating tech heading into 2025
New artificial intelligence features appeared across the tech landscape this year, from the latest iPhone to chatbots like Google's Gemini. Adam Auriemma, the editor-in-chief at CNET, joins CBS News 24/7 with more.
Researchers develop robot to help people walk
A robotic exosuit may seem like science fiction, but a team of South Korean researchers is turning the concept into reality. CBS News' Leah Mishkin explains how the new tech is helping people with disabilities walk on their own.
How AI powered robots are helping small farms
From labor shortages to environmental impacts, farmers are looking to AI to help revolutionize the agriculture industry. One California startup, Farm-ng, is tapping into the power of AI and robotics to perform a wide range of tasks, including seeding, weeding and harvesting.
Holiday shoppers on the lookout for big TVs
TVs are some of the most popular items to fly off store shelves during the holidays. But this year, experts say shoppers are going bigger than ever. CBS News' Jeff Wagner explains.
Health care AI, intended to save money, requires expensive humans
Despite the hype over artificial intelligence in medicine, the systems require consistent monitoring and staffing to put in place and maintain.
Science
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Orca who carried her dead calf for 17 days has a new baby
Tahlequah has a newborn girl, years after she made headlines for carrying her dead calf for 17 days.
2,600-year-old shipwreck is raised from waters off Spain
An ancient shipwreck that dates back to the 7th century B.C.E. has been removed from waters off Spain, two decades after its discovery in 1994.
What to know about the winter solstice, 2024's shortest day
The 2024 winter solstice, the shortest day of the year, happens on Saturday, Dec. 21, and is marked with traditions and celebrations around the world.
Class-action lawsuit over plastic recycling
This week a group of plaintiffs in Missouri, Kansas, California and Florida filed a class-action lawsuit against dozens of companies and organizations, claiming they've falsely promoted how easy it is to recycle plastics. CBS News Los Angeles climatologist Marina Jurica has the details.
Why fish, birds and other animals yawn too, according to an expert
Humans aren't alone when it comes to yawning — all vertebrates do it. But why? An expert explains the likely reason behind this "evolutionarily ancient" act.
Crime
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3 shot, 1 stabbed in Christmas night dispute at Phoenix airport, police say
Gunfire rang out at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport on Christmas night and left three people wounded, police say. Another was stabbed. One was in critical condition.
Prison guard dead after Christmas morning assault by inmate, officials say
A corrections officer died after an assault by an inmate in an Ohio prison on Christmas morning, authorities say.
Backpacks full of $1.1 million worth of cocaine found near Canada border
Agents found 30 brick-like packages of cocaine inside the backpacks, located in a wooded area in Washington near the U.S. border with Canada.
"Desperate" killer who escaped from Mississippi prison is recaptured
Authorities in Mississippi say a "desperate" and "very dangerous" convicted murderer, Drew Johnson, is back in custody after escaping from prison Tuesday.
Former Philadelphia Eagles running back pleads guilty to fraud charges
Former Philadelphia Eagles running back Wendell Smallwood Jr. pleaded guilty to federal fraud charges.
Space
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Discovery of "tipped over" black hole surprises NASA scientists
New analysis techniques and decades-old research helped NASA scientists identify an unusual black hole in a distant galaxy.
Why are the Boeing Starliner astronauts stuck in space?
Here's why NASA astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore are stuck, but not stranded, at the International Space Station after launching into space in June.
NASA delayes return date for astronauts
NASA has delayed the return date for Boeing's Starliner astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams. CBS News' Manuel Bojorquez reports on the decision to keep the two in space.
NASA leader weighs in on Elon Musk, SpaceX and plans for moon rocket
NASA Administrator Bill Nelson says he's optimistic the Trump administration will support the space agency's agenda.
Boeing Starliner crew's return delayed again
Two astronauts who have been stuck in space since June will have to wait until at least the end of March to come home after NASA on Wednesday again pushed back their return date. Derrick Pitts, chief astronomer for the Franklin Institute, joined CBS News to discuss what's causing the delays.
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Notable Deaths in 2024
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
The Scott Peterson case: New evidence?
Peterson's death sentence for the murder of his pregnant wife Laci has been overturned. Now his supporters are pushing for a complete retrial.
The troubled marriage of Ashley and Doug Benefield
The seesaw marriage between the former ballerina and her much older husband only lasted four years, until she shot him on Sept. 27, 2020.
Texas couple investigates teen daughter's unusual death
Cayley Mandadi's mother and stepfather go to extreme lengths to prove her death was no accident.
Summer music heats up 2024
Live performances are in full swing this summer. Scroll through our concert gallery, featuring pictures by CBS News photojournalist Jake Barlow and photographers Ed Spinelli and Kirstine Walton.
Latest CBS News Videos
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Latest CBS News Videos
Academy teaches students the art of playing Santa
Twice a year, between 100 and 150 student Santas and Mrs. Clauses from as far away as Europe enroll at the Northern Lights Santa Academy in Atlanta for a three-day boot camp where they will learn to become professional Christmas entertainers. Skyler Henry has details.
In show of unity, 4 pastors swap congregations
In Midland, Texas, four pastors from different denominations decided to exchange pulpits for one day in order to deliver a message about tolerance and acceptance to their congregations and the community. Jason Allen has more.
Celebrating the holidays around the globe
Jericka Duncan takes a look at how Christmas and Hanukkah are being marked around the world and even aboard the International Space Station.
Why some children are turning to GLP-1 drugs
A growing number of young people are receiving prescriptions for GLP-1 weight loss medications like Ozempic and Wegovy. Janet Shamlian examines why.
The impact of tariffs on the U.S. toy industry
If President-elect Donald Trump follows through on his threat of imposing new tariffs on Mexico, Canada and China, it could have major repercussions for the U.S. toy industry. Kelly O'Grady explains.