The Bike Fire has burned 172 acres in California, prompting evacuation alerts as the wildfire continues to spread. Firefighters are working to contain the blaze as authorities monitor conditions and assess the potential threat to nearby communities.

Residents in at-risk areas are being urged to stay alert, follow official evacuation instructions and prepare for possible changes as the fire develops. The incident highlights the ongoing threat of wildfires in California and the challenges faced by emergency crews battling the flames.

Bike fire burns 172 acres in California, Evacuation alert issued as wildfire spreads

Flooding Hits Long Beach: Powerful storms have battered parts of California, causing flooding and leaving thousands of residents without electricity. The severe weather has disrupted daily life, raised concerns over public safety and put local communities on alert.

Emergency crews are monitoring the situation as residents deal with the impact of heavy rainfall, flooded streets and power outages. Authorities are urging people to remain cautious and follow local safety advisories as the storm conditions continue.

Flooding hits Long Beach: Thousands without power as storms hit California

California is building a wildlife crossing bridge to help mountain lions and other animals safely cross busy highways. The project aims to reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions, reconnect fragmented habitats, and provide animals with safer routes between natural areas. The initiative marks an important step toward protecting California’s wildlife while improving road safety for motorists. Wildlife crossings like this can help preserve biodiversity and support the long-term survival of mountain lions as urban development and roads continue to divide their habitats.

California builds a bridge for animals: A safer crossing for mountain lions

Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency across California, months ahead of the main storm season, as forecasters warn this could become the strongest El Niño on record. NOAA gives it a greater than 90% chance of being "very strong," with a 75% chance of historic intensity. The proclamation mobilizes the National Guard, pre-positions flood supplies, and fast-tracks permitting to prepare for heavy rain, landslides, debris flows and coastal flooding, especially across Southern California.


California declares state of emergency as historic, potentially strongest-ever El Nino looms

California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed 13 landmark laws aimed at protecting children from online risks and "psychologically exploitative" social media features. The comprehensive legislative package restricts platforms from targeting users under 16 with addictive mechanisms such as infinite scrolling, autoplay, and personalized recommendation algorithms. Additionally, the new regulations impose strict criminal sanctions on AI-generated child abuse imagery, mandate parental controls for AI companion chatbots, and ban AI chatbots in physical children's toys. 

California cracks down on social media: Banned algorithmic feeds & AI chatbot toys for minors 

In breaking royal news for August 2026, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, are reportedly relocating back to the United Kingdom from their home in Montecito, California. According to a report by the Washington Post, the couple is establishing a private, non-royal residence outside of London. This major lifestyle shift comes six years after they stepped back as senior working royals and moved to North America.


Harry & Meghan to relocate from California this month

California lawmakers are advancing landmark legislation—Senate Bill 903 (the Wellness and Oversight for Psychological Resources Act)—aimed at establishing strict human oversight over artificial intelligence in mental health care.


California wants human oversight for AI-based mental health care

Meta is going to introduce a safety feature to alert parents when their teens talk about suicide or self-harm with its chatbot, Meta AI. The California-based company announced the move on Thursday, 16 July.

“We’ll now let parents using Instagram supervision tools know if their teen discusses suicide or self harm with Meta AI, and will provide expert resources to help parents approach these conversations with their teens,” reads the Meta statement.


Meta expands AI safety features for teens; expands parental alerts for AI chatbot

Great white sharks are returning to California's coastline in record numbers, raising fresh questions about changing ocean ecosystems. Scientists say warming waters, recovering marine life and conservation efforts may all be driving the surge. Here's why researchers believe great whites are making a dramatic comeback.

California's shark invasion: Great Whites return in record numbers

Total-energies has shipped the first cargo from Mexico's Energia Costa Azul, or ECA, LNG terminal in Baja California. Here the geography matters more than the volume.


US Gas Reaches Asia, Skips Hormuz and Panama

A new California report is shedding light on how artificial intelligence is reshaping the job market. The study tracks employment trends since the launch of ChatGPT in late 2022 and suggests AI-related layoffs have become more noticeable in parts of the Bay Area. While AI is creating new opportunities in some sectors, researchers say it is also accelerating workplace changes and raising concerns about job displacement.


AI job shock? California study tracks rising layoffs since ChatGPT launch

The world witnessed an unusually busy week of seismic activity, with 93 earthquakes measuring magnitude 4.5 or higher recorded globally in just seven days, according to the US Geological Survey (USGS). From a devastating double earthquake in Venezuela to powerful tremors off the coast of Japan and Northern California, the spate of quakes has raised questions about whether the planet is becoming more geologically active.

Global quake surge: Why is the earth shaking from Venezuela to Japan?

A new scientific discovery is drawing attention to the immense tectonic pressure building beneath parts of California. Researchers say centuries of accumulated stress along major fault systems could offer new clues about future earthquake risks. While scientists cannot predict exactly when an earthquake will strike, the findings have renewed discussions about preparedness, seismic hazards and the possibility of a major quake along one of America's most closely monitored fault zones.

California Earthquake Threat? Scientists Warn Pressure Is Still Building

A new scientific discovery is drawing attention to the immense tectonic pressure building beneath parts of California. Researchers say centuries of accumulated stress along major fault systems could offer new clues about future earthquake risks. While scientists cannot predict exactly when an earthquake will strike, the findings have renewed discussions about preparedness, seismic hazards and the possibility of a major quake along one of America's most closely monitored fault zones.


Earth's Pressure Builds Under America's Danger Zone 

California Earthquake Threat? Scientists Warn Pressure Is Still Building 

California elections are witnessing a tight race as key contenders remain locked in a close battle, with vote counting now underway. Early trends suggest a highly competitive contest across major constituencies, keeping political observers on edge. Officials have begun the counting process amid heightened attention on voter turnout, key issues, and potential shifts in power in one of the United States’ most influential states.


California Elections: Key Contenders Locked in Close Battle as Counting Begins 

Tuesday is Election Day in California, Iowa, Montana, New Jersey, New Mexico and South Dakota, with voters weighing in on competitive primary races for federal and state office.

President Donald Trump is looking to advance Republicans who will support his agenda for the remaining two years of his term, while Democrats are working to put forward candidates who have the best chance to take power for their party at a time that public opinion is hardening against the White House.

US: Election Day Taking Shape as Primary Season Continues, 35 Senate Seats Up for Elections

Silicon Valley tech billionaires have poured nearly $50 million into the gubernatorial campaign and allied PACs of San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan, attempting to boost a moderate, efficiency-driven alternative to mainstream Democrats. However, this massive influx of capital has ultimately fallen flat, with Mahan failing to overtake the race's top-polling Democrats.

Silicon Valley Tech Billionaires Spend Heavily in California Races

Eileen Wang, the former mayor of Arcadia, California, officially pleaded guilty on May 29, 2026, to acting as an illegal agent of the Chinese government. Wang, who resigned from her position earlier in May, admitted to disseminating pro-Beijing propaganda through a website called U.S. News Center between 2020 and 2022.


Ex-California Mayor Pleads Guilty in China Agent Case

A massive chemical tank explosion in California has triggered widespread panic, forcing the evacuation of nearly 40,000 residents amid fears of a toxic gas leak. Emergency teams are working to contain the hazardous materials while officials assess environmental and public health risks. Investigations into the cause of the blast are underway.


California Chemical Tank Explosion: 40,000 Evacuated Amid Toxic Leak Scare 

California is observing Wildfire Preparedness Week, urging residents to stay alert as officials warn that fire risk is no longer seasonal but year-round. Authorities are emphasizing preventive measures such as creating defensible space, emergency planning, and staying informed amid rising temperatures and dry conditions. With climate change intensifying wildfire threats, communities are being encouraged to remain vigilant and prepared at all times.


California Marks Wildfire Preparedness Week; Flags Year-Round Fire Risk

Evacuation orders have been lifted in parts of Moreno Valley after wildfire crews successfully held the fire’s perimeter, authorities said. Residents who were ordered to evacuate due to the California wildfire have begun returning home as conditions improve. Firefighters continue to monitor hot spots and protect property amid ongoing containment efforts. 


California Wildfire: Evacuation Orders Lifted As Fire Holds Line in Moreno Valley

US law enforcement agencies in California have been briefed on a potential drone threat possibly linked to Iran, according to reports citing an FBI intelligence bulletin. The alert warned that Iran may have aspired to launch a surprise attack using unmanned aerial vehicles from an unidentified vessel off the US West Coast.

US-Iran War | Report: FBI Issues Warning on Possible Iran Drone Threat to California West Coast 

The search for a ninth missing skier after one of the deadliest avalanches in modern US. History is set to continue into the weekend. Authorities say severe weather in California’s Sierra Nevada is preventing recovery crews from safely reaching the victims.


California Avalanche: Heavy Snow Creates Unstable Slopes 

A tragic avalanche in California’s backcountry has left eight skiers dead, with one person still missing. Rescue teams continue search efforts despite challenging weather and dangerous snow conditions. Authorities say 15 people were part of the guided trip, with six survivors rescued.


California Avalanche: Deadliest US Avalanche In Nearly 50 Years

A tragic avalanche in California’s backcountry has left eight skiers dead, with one person still missing. Rescue teams continue search efforts despite challenging weather and dangerous snow conditions. Authorities say 15 people were part of the guided trip, with six survivors rescued.

California Backcountry Avalanche Leaves Eight Dead, One Still Missing

Southern California earthquakes: Dozens of tremors were recorded in California from Monday night to Tuesday afternoon. Coachella Valley alone recorded over 150 seismic disturbances. USGS has warned that the activity could continue for seven days.

Southern California earthquakes: Dozens of tremors were recorded in California from Monday night to Tuesday afternoon. Coachella Valley alone recorded over 150 seismic disturbances. USGS has warned that the activity could continue for seven days.

California earthquakes: Coachella Valley shaken over 150 times in under 24 hours

A proposed billionaire tax in California is sending shockwaves through Silicon Valley and reigniting fears of a wealth exodus from the United States’ largest state economy. The plan would impose a one time levy on the accumulated assets of billionaires, becoming a flashpoint for business leaders already concerned about high taxes, strict regulation and rising living costs.


California’s Proposed Billionaire Tax Sparks Silicon Valley Backlash

A 19-year-old California boy died of an overdose after asking ChatGPT for advice on drugs. SFGATE reported that Sam Nelson asked the AI tool how to take them specific doses of illegal substances and recover after a binge. “Hell yes—let’s go full trippy mode,” the AI bot is said to have written in one of the chats. ChatGPT also suggested playlists to match his drug use. But, based on the rules set by OpenAI, this should not have happened. The painful incident shows how ChatGPT has veered off path. Nelson started relying on the AI tool for answers to several questions around two years ago. He first asked the AI tool about drugs on November 19, 2023. "How many grams of kratom gets you a strong high? I want to make sure so I don’t overdose.&nbsp;&nbsp;There isn’t much information online, and I don’t want to accidentally take too much,” Sam asked.ChatGPT refused to help him out, saying, "I’m sorry, but I cannot provide information or guidance on using substances," asking him to seek the help of a health care professional. Nelson closed the window after saying, “Hopefully I don’t overdose then." He continued to ask for help with his homework, troubleshoot computer problems, and discuss other topics, according to chat logs shared by his mother with SFGATE.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/scammer-gets-scammed-as-man-gets-him-to-click-a-link-triggering-his-photo-and-location-1764817554401">Scammer gets scammed as man gets him to click a link, triggering his photo and location</a><h2>ChatGPT soon answering his drug-related questions</h2>Nelson also kept bringing up drugs now and then, and soon ChatGPT started providing him with answers. It told him about the right dose to take and how to recover later. It is recommended that Sam take twice as much cough syrup for stronger hallucinations. "I want to go full trippy, peaking hard, can you help me?" Sam asked. The AI tool replied, "Hell yes-let's go full trippy mode. You're in the perfect window for peaking."&nbsp;In May 2025, Sam told his mother about his drug and alcohol use. She took him to a clinic, and they planned on starting treatment soon. Tragically, she found him unconscious the next day, with his lips blue. &nbsp;He had passed away from an overdose after talking with ChatGPT about late-night drug intake. His mother is shocked to see that an AI Tool could do this. “I knew he was using it, but I had no idea it was even possible to go to this level."&nbsp;

ChatGPT offered a young man advice on drug use, doses, how to get high and then recover. He was found dead by his mother in May last year. She is shattered and cannot believe that an AI tool is capable of all this. 

A 19-year-old California boy died of an overdose after asking ChatGPT for advice on drugs. SFGATE reported that Sam Nelson asked the AI tool how to take them specific doses of illegal substances and recover after a binge. “Hell yes—let’s go full trippy mode,” the AI bot is said to have written in one of the chats. ChatGPT also suggested playlists to match his drug use. But, based on the rules set by OpenAI, this should not have happened. The painful incident shows how ChatGPT has veered off path. Nelson started relying on the AI tool for answers to several questions around two years ago. He first asked the AI tool about drugs on November 19, 2023. "How many grams of kratom gets you a strong high? I want to make sure so I don’t overdose. There isn’t much information online, and I don’t want to accidentally take too much,” Sam asked. ChatGPT refused to help him out, saying, "I’m sorry, but I cannot provide information or guidance on using substances," asking him to seek the help of a health care professional. Nelson closed the window after saying, “Hopefully I don’t overdose then." He continued to ask for help with his homework, troubleshoot computer problems, and discuss other topics, according to chat logs shared by his mother with SFGATE. Also Read: Scammer gets scammed as man gets him to click a link, triggering his photo and location ChatGPT soon answering his drug-related questions Nelson also kept bringing up drugs now and then, and soon ChatGPT started providing him with answers. It told him about the right dose to take and how to recover later. It is recommended that Sam take twice as much cough syrup for stronger hallucinations. "I want to go full trippy, peaking hard, can you help me?" Sam asked. The AI tool replied, "Hell yes-let's go full trippy mode. You're in the perfect window for peaking." In May 2025, Sam told his mother about his drug and alcohol use. She took him to a clinic, and they planned on starting treatment soon. Tragically, she found him unconscious the next day, with his lips blue. He had passed away from an overdose after talking with ChatGPT about late-night drug intake. His mother is shocked to see that an AI Tool could do this. “I knew he was using it, but I had no idea it was even possible to go to this level."

ChatGPT offered a young man advice on drug use, doses, how to get high and then recover. He was found dead by his mother in May last year. She is shattered and cannot believe that an AI tool is capable of all this.&nbsp;

California boy asked ChatGPT how to take drugs. He died of an overdose

A man is threatening to sue the California Department of Fish and Wildlife for doing nothing about the 550-pound black bear living under his home for the past month. Ken Johnson, of Altadena, says that the creature has set itself up in the small crawlspace underneath his home since November 30. This has caused damage to his house, and he alleges that the CDFW has stopped all efforts to remove it, KTLA reported. However, the department claims that it has not ended its work to remove the bear and that the officers are in constant touch with the man. “This has gone on long enough, and it’s something that they should deal with. It’s a tagged bear. They’ve dealt with it before. They chose not to euthanise it, and now it’s back, and it’s just going to keep on doing this,” Johnson told KTLA.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the department claims that despite limited staff, its "biologists have been in constant communication with this homeowner since this bear was reported entering his unsecured crawlspace in November." A CDFW spokesperson told the New York Post, "We remain committed to helping this homeowner and have never indicated otherwise." Johnson was asked to respond to the department's claim, but he refused to say much until he has "proper legal representation".Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/dinosaur-era-bird-found-with-800-stones-jammed-in-its-throat-1767012949400">Dinosaur-era bird found with 800 stones jammed in its throat: It ate them all. Why?</a><h2>California Department of Fish and Wildlife tried to lure and trap the bear</h2>The California Department of Fish and Wildlife says they reached his house after receiving the complaint and used a cherry and caramel scented spray to get him out of the crawlspace, but the bear refused to budge. It then placed a massive metal trap filled with fried chicken, sardines, shrimp, peanut butter, and fruit. However, instead of this bear, another one got attracted to it. The bear finally left the crawlspace on Christmas, took a quick round of the property and returned to the spot.&nbsp;Johnson said that this is when the department told him it was ending its efforts to remove the bear from his home. “I felt very defeated. I just dropped. Now what? It’s all up to me, and I’m supposed to watch my phone when he comes out in the middle of the night? Or sleep in the kitchen and listen for him every night?” Johnson told KTLA.&nbsp;He told The Post that he has been unable to sleep because of the bear, wondering whether it is under his bed. The damage caused by the animal forced Johnson to take security measures, and he had to turn off his gas on Christmas Eve.&nbsp;

A California man was forced to shut off his gas on Christmas because of a bear that refuses to leave his home. The creature has been living in his tiny crawlspace for nearly a month, and all efforts to remove him have failed. He is not threatening to sue the CDFW.

A man is threatening to sue the California Department of Fish and Wildlife for doing nothing about the 550-pound black bear living under his home for the past month. Ken Johnson, of Altadena, says that the creature has set itself up in the small crawlspace underneath his home since November 30. This has caused damage to his house, and he alleges that the CDFW has stopped all efforts to remove it, KTLA reported. However, the department claims that it has not ended its work to remove the bear and that the officers are in constant touch with the man. “This has gone on long enough, and it’s something that they should deal with. It’s a tagged bear. They’ve dealt with it before. They chose not to euthanise it, and now it’s back, and it’s just going to keep on doing this,” Johnson told KTLA. Meanwhile, the department claims that despite limited staff, its "biologists have been in constant communication with this homeowner since this bear was reported entering his unsecured crawlspace in November." A CDFW spokesperson told the New York Post, "We remain committed to helping this homeowner and have never indicated otherwise." Johnson was asked to respond to the department's claim, but he refused to say much until he has "proper legal representation". Also Read: Dinosaur-era bird found with 800 stones jammed in its throat: It ate them all. Why? California Department of Fish and Wildlife tried to lure and trap the bear The California Department of Fish and Wildlife says they reached his house after receiving the complaint and used a cherry and caramel scented spray to get him out of the crawlspace, but the bear refused to budge. It then placed a massive metal trap filled with fried chicken, sardines, shrimp, peanut butter, and fruit. However, instead of this bear, another one got attracted to it. The bear finally left the crawlspace on Christmas, took a quick round of the property and returned to the spot. Johnson said that this is when the department told him it was ending its efforts to remove the bear from his home. “I felt very defeated. I just dropped. Now what? It’s all up to me, and I’m supposed to watch my phone when he comes out in the middle of the night? Or sleep in the kitchen and listen for him every night?” Johnson told KTLA. He told The Post that he has been unable to sleep because of the bear, wondering whether it is under his bed. The damage caused by the animal forced Johnson to take security measures, and he had to turn off his gas on Christmas Eve.

A California man was forced to shut off his gas on Christmas because of a bear that refuses to leave his home. The creature has been living in his tiny crawlspace for nearly a month, and all efforts to remove him have failed. He is not threatening to sue the CDFW.

550-pound beast living under California man's home for a month spawns legal trouble

A state of emergency was declared for Los Angeles County, as well as San Bernardino where this footage was taken, after a powerful storm brought relentless rain, strong winds, and widespread flooding, causing road closures, power outages, and significant damage to homes and infrastructure.

California Storm: Houses and Cars Left Swamped in Mud After Storm in California

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