Latest Science News
Researchers find widespread silicone-based pollutant in air worldwide
Scientists report unexpectedly high atmospheric levels of methylsiloxanes, detected across cities, rural areas, coasts, and forests. The compounds may be coming from vehicle and ship engines as well as consumer and industrial sources, raising questions about health and climate impacts.
Atmospheric methylsiloxanes may be more common than PFAS in air
The study says methylsiloxanes account for about 2% to 4.3% of total organic aerosols, making them among the most common synthetic substances in airborne particles. Researchers warn that daily inhalation exposure could already exceed that of PFAS and microplastics, though long-term health effects are still unknown.
Vehicle emissions may be a major source of hidden silicone pollution
More than half of the detected pollution is believed to come from vehicle emissions, according to the study. Unlike pollution confined to traffic corridors, these particles appear to travel long distances, suggesting a globally distributed source.
Scientists warn the pollutant could affect clouds and climate
Beyond human exposure, researchers say methylsiloxanes may alter aerosol behavior in the atmosphere. That could influence cloud formation and ice processes, creating possible climate effects that still need further study.
More than half of the United States faces severe drought
A climatologist says over 60% of the U.S. is currently in drought, with more than 20% in extreme drought conditions. The combination of intensity and geographic spread makes this one of the worst drought episodes in decades.
Colorado and the Southeast are among the hardest-hit drought regions
Experts say the greatest water-resource concerns are in Colorado and the Southeast, especially Georgia and Florida. Dryness in the West is especially problematic because mountain regions depend on winter snowpack to refill reservoirs and rivers.
La Niña helped drive the current U.S. dryness pattern
The drought pattern was linked in part to La Niña conditions in the Pacific, which often bring drier weather to the southern U.S. This year’s event was unusual because the Pacific Northwest also stayed notably dry.
Scientists are watching for a possible El Niño shift later this year
One climatologist noted that a historic El Niño could develop next fall and winter, potentially reversing some of the current dryness patterns. If it forms, it could bring a very different precipitation regime to North America.
G2 geomagnetic storm watch issued for May 15
A moderate geomagnetic storm watch has been issued due to the expected impact of a corotating interaction region. Space-weather forecasters say auroras may be visible farther south than usual across parts of the northern United States.
National Science Board issues warning about U.S. competitiveness with China
An unreleased document from the fired U.S. Science Board reportedly warns that the United States risks falling behind China in science and technology. The board is urging a stronger response to preserve research leadership and innovation capacity.