9 Missing, 6 Survive After Guided Ski Group Hit by Avalanche Near Donner Summit
A guided backcountry ski group was caught in a powerful avalanche near Castle Peak during a HIGH-danger storm warning, burying or sweeping away 9 people. Six survivors sheltered in whiteout conditions as dozens of rescuers mounted a perilous, multi-county response.
Race To Save Lick Observatory’s Great Refractor As Bay Area Storms Line Up
A temporary cover now protects the historic 36‑inch telescope at Lick Observatory after Christmas dome damage. Repairs will take months and the visitor center remains closed.
Golden State Forests Gobble Up Wildfire Carbon, State Tally Finds
A new CARB inventory finds California’s natural and working lands stored nearly 5 billion metric tons of carbon and absorbed about twice the carbon lost to wildfires, though recent mega‑fires have reduced stocks.
SF Braces for Midweek Soaker as Thunder Crashes Commute
A coastal low brings rain and a window for afternoon thunderstorms in San Francisco; expect slick roads, gusty SSE winds and choppy ferry rides. Bring rain gear and budget extra travel time.












