Independent report on California fires
An independent report gives a new timeline of how January's devastating wildfires in California broke out. CBS News correspondent Carter Evans has more from Pacific Palisades, California.
Wildfire Smoke
Pickett Fire smoke threatens California vineyard: "Like licking an ashtray"
Even if Pickett Fire flames don't reach the orchards, smoke will impact the economic lifeblood of Napa Valley.
Air quality maps show how Canadian wildfire smoke is affecting U.S.
Smoke from Canadian wildfires is causing air quality concerns for millions of Americans in the Midwest and Northeast.
Historic prediction for 2025 wildfire season
Firefighters in California are battling a wildfire that's burned nearly 40,000 acres near Santa Barbara. Elise Preston has more on that and other wildfires currently impacting North America.
Grand Canyon, Utah wildfires creating "fire clouds"
Wildfires burning at the Grand Canyon and in Utah are so hot that they're spurring the formation of "fire clouds" that can create their own erratic weather systems.
Historic Grand Canyon Lodge destroyed by expanding wildfire
The Dragon Bravo Fire in Arizona has destroyed dozens of structures and a water treatment facility on the Grand Canyon's North Rim.
Study: Maui fires impacted mental health
Nearly two years after devastating wildfires tore through Maui, a new study shows a glimpse into the journey from crisis to recovery. CBS News correspondent Carter Evans has more.
Maps show U.S. air quality and Canada wildfire smoke forecast
An air quality map shows conditions improving in the U.S. on Friday as smoke from the Canadian wildfires subsides.
Canada's raging wildfires kill 2, force more than 33,000 to evacuate
Wildfires scorching several Canadian provinces have driven at least 33,400 people from their homes, with smoke now reaching all the way to Europe.
What is the Air Quality Index?
If you're seeing a thick haze outside your window, it's likely air pollution. Here's how to find out what the air quality is near you.
Canadian wildfires force tens of thousands to evacuate
Dozens of wildfires remained active Sunday and diminished air quality in parts of Canada and the U.S., according to officials.
Death toll from L.A. area wildfires rises
The death toll from the Los Angeles area wildfires rose to 16 on Saturday evening, the Los Angeles County coroner's office announced. CBS News Los Angeles' Mark Liu and Laurie Perez report.
L.A. officials give update on Eaton Fire
Officials provided an update on the Eaton Fire burning in northeast Los Angeles County on Saturday afternoon. L.A. County Supervisor Kathryn Barger said she invited President-elect Donald Trump to survey the area. Authorities also discussed firefighting efforts, curfew orders, public health risks, power outages, price gouging and other information.
Map shows where air quality is being affected by Los Angeles wildfires
As thousands of acres burn across Southern California, wildfire smoke is causing poor air quality in the region and beyond.
Firefighter team briefly runs out of water
A state of emergency was declared in California as multiple wildfires destroyed homes near L.A. and killed at least 5 people. CBS News Los Angeles' Joy Benedict reports that some firefighters ran out of water, but got help from other departments. Rachel Kim interviews a resident looking for "a sign of hope to get over this devastation." Gio Insignares has more on an active fire-fight.
Doctor on LA air quality risks
Millions of Los Angeles County residents are facing extremely hazardous air quality as wildfires continue to burn. The air quality index in Los Angeles on Wednesday was 178, which is considered to be "unhealthy" for any individual who is active outdoors. Pediatric pulmonologist Dr. Irina Dralyuk joins "The Daily Report" to discuss the risks and symptoms of poor air quality.
Officials provide update on wildfires
California officials on Wednesday held a news conference to provide updates on the brush fires raging in the Los Angeles area. The Pacific Palisades fire, the Eaton fire and several other blazes have destroyed homes, schools and businesses. The fires are also responsible for several deaths. Authorities urged those in evacuation zones to leave, described first-responder efforts and outlined ways to help.
Los Angeles under state of emergency
Los Angeles remains in a state of emergency due to the deadly wildfires spreading across the county. CBS News correspondent Elisa Preston reports on the ground in Malibu.
Satellite images show devastating LA fires
Satellite imagery captured the rapid growth of the fires burning in Los Angeles County. KCAL assignment manager Mark Liu shares infrared satellite data, which shows heat signatures and activity from the destructive fires on Wednesday.
How bad is the California wildfire smoke for health?
Tens of thousands of people are evacuating Los Angeles as wildfires blaze across the region, emitting dangerous smoke. Here's how it impacts health.
Wildfire smoke linked to heightened risk of dementia diagnosis, new California research finds
When a wildfire rips through your community, your life and home are likely top of mind, but what about your brain health?
Thousands of firefighters battling California's Park Fire, other western blazes
The sprawling Park Fire, near Chico — which officials say was sparked after a man pushed a burning car into a gully and then fled — was only 12% contained.
Wildfires force evacuation of New Mexico town
Two wildfires that have scorched about 19,000 acres in less than 24 hours forced the evacuation of the New Mexico mountain town of Ruidoso. The urgent evacuation led to a traffic jam as people fled on the main road out. So far, an estimated 500 structures have been damaged in the wildfires. Omar Villafranca has the latest.
How wildfire smoke can impact your health
Last year, the worst wildfire season on record in Canada filled skies with a smoky haze. Forecasters predict this year's fire season could be even worse, potentially putting more people at risk of health impacts. CBS News' Anne-Marie Green has more.
Canadian town bracing for out-of-control wildfire
The town's mayor warned residents who haven't evacuated may "find that the resources that they need are gone" if they fail to leave before the Parker Lake Wildfire arrives.
Everything we know about Minnesota's massive fraud schemes
A viral social media video has put Minnesota's long-running fraud scandal at the center of the national conversation. Here's what to know.
Dozens feared dead as fire hits New Year's revelers in Swiss Alps bar
Police in Switzerland say a fire at a bar in the Crans-Montana ski resort area is believed to have left "several tens of people" dead and dozens more injured.
New Year's celebrations welcome 2026 around the world. See the photos.
New Zealand and Australia were among the first to welcome 2026, but in Sydney and some other cities, the festivities are tinged by grief.
Zohran Mamdani sworn in to become New York City's 112th mayor
In a private ceremony at the abandoned Old City Hall subway station, Mamdani was sworn in by New York Attorney General Letitia James as the clock struck midnight on New Year's Eve.
Videos released in Epstein files raise fresh questions about jail footage
A recently released cache of security videos is raising new questions about the prison cameras at the facility where Jeffrey Epstein died in his cell in 2019.
Alleged drug smugglers jumped overboard in recent boat strikes, U.S. military says
Three people were killed Tuesday when the first boat was hit, while individuals in two other boats jumped overboard, according to U.S. Southern Command.
Judge voids decision to end legal status of 60,000 immigrants
A U.S. District Court judge issued a summary judgment on Wednesday, finding that the effort to revoke the legal status of tens of thousands of Hondurans, Nepalis and Nicaraguans was unlawful
Can you guess 6-7 words on the 50th annual "Banished Words List"?
Respondents to a Michigan college's survey of overused and misused words and phrases say "6-7" is "cooked" and should come to a massive full-stop.
Notable works entering the public domain in 2026
Here are the significant books, films and characters joining the list of works in the public domain on Jan. 1, 2026.
U.S.
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What's open on New Year's Day 2026? See which stores are operating.
Plan ahead as banks, post offices and major stock exchanges will be closed in observance of the federal holiday.
Can you guess 6-7 words on the 50th annual "Banished Words List"?
Respondents to a Michigan college's survey of overused and misused words and phrases say "6-7" is "cooked" and should come to a massive full-stop.
Federal appeals court blocks Hawaii's tourist tax on cruise ships
The levy, which would impose a new 11% tax on the gross fares paid by a cruise ship's passenger, was set to go into effect at the start of 2026.
Notable works entering the public domain in 2026
Here are the significant books, films and characters joining the list of works in the public domain on Jan. 1, 2026.
Judge voids decision to end legal status of 60,000 immigrants
A U.S. District Court judge issued a summary judgment on Wednesday, finding that the effort to revoke the legal status of tens of thousands of Hondurans, Nepalis and Nicaraguans was unlawful
MoneyWatch
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What's open on New Year's Day 2026? See which stores are operating.
Plan ahead as banks, post offices and major stock exchanges will be closed in observance of the federal holiday.
Federal appeals court blocks Hawaii's tourist tax on cruise ships
The levy, which would impose a new 11% tax on the gross fares paid by a cruise ship's passenger, was set to go into effect at the start of 2026.
Some states set to impose SNAP bans on soda, candy and other foods
Starting January 1, food-stamp recipients in five U.S. states will face restrictions on using the benefits to buy some sugary foods.
Mortgage rates fall to their lowest level in 2025
The average cost of a conventional 30-year U.S. mortgage continues to edge down, while rates on other home loans fell to less than 5.5%.
These national and regional retailers went out of business in 2025
More than 8,000 stores closed across the U.S. this year, according to retail industry data, including these well-known brands.
Politics
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Zohran Mamdani sworn in at abandoned NYC subway station, becoming city's 112th mayor
In a private ceremony at the abandoned Old City Hall subway station, Mamdani was sworn in by New York Attorney General Letitia James as the clock struck midnight on New Year's Eve.
Chief Justice Roberts says Constitution remains "firm and unshaken"
Chief Justice John Roberts says the Constitution remains a sturdy pillar for the country, a message that comes after a tumultuous year in the nation's judicial system.
Alleged drug smugglers jumped overboard in recent boat strikes, U.S. military says
Three people were killed Tuesday when the first boat was hit, while individuals in two other boats jumped overboard, according to U.S. Southern Command.
Judge voids decision to end legal status of 60,000 immigrants
A U.S. District Court judge issued a summary judgment on Wednesday, finding that the effort to revoke the legal status of tens of thousands of Hondurans, Nepalis and Nicaraguans was unlawful
Some states set to impose SNAP bans on soda, candy and other foods
Starting January 1, food-stamp recipients in five U.S. states will face restrictions on using the benefits to buy some sugary foods.
HealthWatch
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HealthWatch
Some states ban junk food from SNAP benefits
In 2026, several states are set to prohibit individuals from purchasing certain junk food items using their federal benefits. Meg Oliver has the details.
Flu cases spiking this holiday season, CDC data shows
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says 32 jurisdictions are showing "high" or "very high" levels of flu.
New California tortilla law aims to decrease birth defects in Latino babies
Mom-and-pop shops will be exempt from this change, but big manufacturers in California will need to start adding folic acid to tortillas beginning January 1.
Advances in treatment for Alzheimer's disease
The number of Americans with Alzheimer's disease is expected to double from 7 million in 2020 to 14 million by 2060, according to the CDC. However, advances in treatment options are giving more people hope in slowing the decline. Dr. Jon LaPook breaks it down.
Flu cases skyrocket across the U.S
Nearly five million flu cases have been reported nationwide, the CDC estimates, and at least 1,900 people have died from the virus. "CBS Saturday Morning" has more on why this year's strain is breaking records.
World
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Dozens feared dead as fire hits New Year's revelers in Swiss Alps bar
Police in Switzerland say a fire at a bar in the Crans-Montana ski resort area is believed to have left "several tens of people" dead and dozens more injured.
France defends granting George Clooney and his family French citizenship
George Clooney and his wife, Amal Clooney, were granted French citizenship because "they contribute, through their distinguished actions, to France's international influence and cultural outreach," the French government said.
British boxer Anthony Joshua released from hospital after crash in Nigeria
The two-time former heavyweight champion and Olympic gold medalist was involved in a fatal road crash near Lagos on Monday.
Alleged drug smugglers jumped overboard in recent boat strikes, U.S. military says
Three people were killed Tuesday when the first boat was hit, while individuals in two other boats jumped overboard, according to U.S. Southern Command.
U.S. sanctions 4 firms, oil tankers with ties to Venezuela
The latest wave of sanctions targets oil traders and vessels that are helping prop up President Nicolás Maduro's regime, the Treasury Department said.
Entertainment
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France defends granting George Clooney and his family French citizenship
George Clooney and his wife, Amal Clooney, were granted French citizenship because "they contribute, through their distinguished actions, to France's international influence and cultural outreach," the French government said.
Notable works entering the public domain in 2026
Here are the significant books, films and characters joining the list of works in the public domain on Jan. 1, 2026.
Noah Wyle on authenticity of "The Pitt"
The hit series "The Pitt" has earned praise for its realistic look at the pressures facing health care workers. Chief medical correspondent Dr. Jon LaPook spoke to the star of the show, Noah Wyle, for "CBS Sunday Morning." Wyle talked about how the cast prepared for their roles beyond learning their lines before shooting the series even began.
Here's who's performing on New Year's Eve to ring in 2026
Here's what to know about the lineup of performances scheduled for New Year's Eve, as crowds gather in Times Square to ring in 2026.
Isiah Whitlock Jr., actor known for his roles in "The Wire" and "Veep," dies at 71
Isiah Whitlock Jr. is perhaps best known for his role as state Sen. R. Clayton "Clay" Davis on HBO's "The Wire."
Technology
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Technology
Economic oasis emerges in the Arizona desert
Arizona is fast becoming a major hub for computer chip production thanks to what's being called the largest foreign direct investment in U.S. history. Kris Van Cleave takes us to a sprawling campus in Phoenix that is providing thousands of jobs while reducing America's reliance on overseas products.
OpenAI hiring for head safety executive to mitigate AI risks
The company's investment in safety prevention comes amid growing concerns over the potential harm of artificial intelligence.
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.
Instacart ending AI price tests for retailers
Instacart says its ending its controversial system of using AI price tests for retailers. Earlier this month, an investigation by Consumer Reports and progressive think tank Groundwork Collaborative found that Instacart's algorithmic pricing charged various prices for the same item from the same store. Jo Ling Kent reports.
Tech companies push for data centers
Massive tech companies wanting to build more data centers in the U.S. are lobbying for support among Americans, according to a recent report by POLITICO. Gabby Miller joins CBS News with more on her reporting.
Science
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2025 was so hot it pushed Earth past critical climate change mark
2025 was the third hottest year on record and pushed Earth past a critical climate change mark, scientists say.
Major climate research center on Trump administration chopping block
The Trump administration intends to dismantle one of the world's leading climate research institutions, in Boulder, Colorado, over what it said were concerns about "climate alarmism."
Researchers capture video of rare polar bear adoption
The footage of a bear caring for an adopted cub was captured during the annual polar bear migration along the Western Hudson Bay in Churchill, Manitoba.
Dinosaur tracks showing "herds moving in synchrony" found in Italy
Most of the footprints are elongated and made by bipeds. The best-preserved ones bear traces of at least four toes.
Interstellar comet is making its closest approach to Earth
NASA continues to aim its space telescopes at the visiting ice ball, estimated to be up to 3.5 miles in size.
Crime
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Crime
Fallout grows over freezing of child care funds
After the Trump administration paused federal assistance to child care centers in Minnesota, parents are now wondering if their kids' day care is in jeopardy, as the government investigates fraud claims. Jonah Kaplan has been following this developing story.
Epstein survivors decry delay in releasing files
There may be millions of documents the Justice Department still needs to release from the case against convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. By law, those files were required to be made public nearly two weeks ago. Scott MacFarlane has the latest.
Day care in Minneapolis vandalized after viral video purporting fraud
A Minneapolis day care says that vandals damaged the facility early this week, after a YouTube video purporting to expose fraud among day cares in the Twin Cities metro area went viral.
New details on charges against Stefon Diggs
Patriots star Stefon Diggs is facing charges of strangulation, assault and battery following an incident in Massachusetts earlier this month. Diggs' attorney, David Meier, said in a statement that the wide receiver "categorically denies" the allegations and "looks forward to establishing the truth" in court. CBS News Boston's Aaron Parseghian has more.
New Orleans marks 1 year since terror attack
New Orleans is marking one year since 14 people were killed and dozens more were injured in a terror attack on the city's iconic Bourbon Street. Kati Weis spoke to the family of one of the victims about how they're remembering their loved one.
Space
More Space
Space
NASA's search for next lunar rover
NASA astronauts took their first drive on the moon 54 years ago. Now, three companies are competing for a NASA contract to build a new lunar rover for use starting with the Artemis 5 mission in 2030. Kris Van Cleave reports.
Artemis 2 astronauts rehearse countdown for upcoming moon launch
NASA is gearing up to send four Artemis astronauts on looping test flight around the moon in 2026.
Woman is first wheelchair user launched into space
A German aerospace engineer made history Saturday, becoming the first wheelchair user to go into space when she took a 10-minute trip aboard a Blue Origin rocket.
Blue Origin safely launches wheelchair user to space and back
German engineer Michaela Benthaus is the first person with a significant physical handicap to reach space.
Jared Isaacman, billionaire who's flown with SpaceX, confirmed to lead NASA
President Trump withdrew Isaacman's nomination for NASA administrator in April, before nominating him again in November.
Latest Galleries
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Notable Deaths in 2025
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
Evidence in the Barbara Kendhammer case
Does the evidence show a cover-up, or was Todd Kendhammer wrongfully convicted for the murder of his wife?
The life & near death of prizefighter Christy Salters-Martin
Christy Salters-Martin dominated in the boxing ring but faced her toughest challenger at home.
Timeline: The disappearance of George Smith
Family seeks answers in death of newlywed who disappeared in 2005 while on Mediterranean honeymoon cruise.
Who is Alix Tichelman?
Meet the tattooed beauty charged in the death of Google executive Forrest Hayes.
Latest CBS News Videos
More Latest CBS News Videos
Latest CBS News Videos
Economic oasis emerges in the Arizona desert
Arizona is fast becoming a major hub for computer chip production thanks to what's being called the largest foreign direct investment in U.S. history. Kris Van Cleave takes us to a sprawling campus in Phoenix that is providing thousands of jobs while reducing America's reliance on overseas products.
Fallout grows over freezing of child care funds
After the Trump administration paused federal assistance to child care centers in Minnesota, parents are now wondering if their kids' day care is in jeopardy, as the government investigates fraud claims. Jonah Kaplan has been following this developing story.
Some states ban junk food from SNAP benefits
In 2026, several states are set to prohibit individuals from purchasing certain junk food items using their federal benefits. Meg Oliver has the details.
Epstein survivors decry delay in releasing files
There may be millions of documents the Justice Department still needs to release from the case against convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. By law, those files were required to be made public nearly two weeks ago. Scott MacFarlane has the latest.
Parts of U.S. ushering in new year under snow
As thousands in the U.S. gear up to celebrate the new year, snow and rain are coming down harder in parts of the country. Meteorologist Rob Marciano has the latest forecast.