A prolonged heat wave has gripped the industrial corridor. Power grids are strained, workers are at risk, and vulnerable populations need protection.
Spring snowmelt and sustained rain have pushed the river system to historic levels. Levees protecting the delta's farmland and small towns are under stress. This is a marathon—the flood rises slowly over weeks, testing sustained resource management and strategic levee decisions.
Heavy spring rains have swollen the Central River beyond capacity. Flood warnings are in effect for the metropolitan area.
A severe coastal storm has overwhelmed the Harbor District's aging flood defenses. Storm surge and heavy rainfall threaten the historic waterfront and surrounding neighborhoods.
A fast-moving wildfire has ignited in the Sierra Ridge forest. Drought conditions and high winds are fueling rapid spread toward residential communities.
Lightning-sparked fires on both sides of Cascade Pass have trapped thousands of travelers on the highway while threatening isolated mountain communities. Smoke periodically grounds aircraft. The only route through the mountains is now a danger zone.
A record-breaking heat dome has settled over the island resort community of Coral Bay during peak tourist season. The island's small hospital is overwhelmed, ferry service is suspended due to rough seas, and the limited airstrip can only handle small aircraft.
A Category 4 hurricane is bearing down on the Atlantic Coast. Mandatory evacuations are underway as the storm approaches.
An explosion at the Bayshore petrochemical complex has triggered intense fires and released toxic smoke over nearby residential areas. The industrial fire burns hotter than natural wildfires and poses ongoing explosion risks. Residents must evacuate but many are reluctant to leave.
The 60-year-old Millbrook Dam is showing critical seepage after weeks of heavy rain. Engineers estimate 48-72 hours before potential failure. The valley town of 48,000 sits directly in the flood path with a 45-minute warning window once breach begins.
A magnitude 7.1 earthquake has struck the metropolitan area. Buildings are damaged, fires are breaking out, and communications are disrupted.
A magnitude 6.4 earthquake has struck during the city's largest cultural festival. The downtown area, normally home to 80,000, has over 280,000 people packed into temporary stages, vendor tents, and historic buildings. Cell networks have collapsed. Families are separated.
