Environment stories in Hampton Roads

Over 200,000 people have evacuated southwestern France due to wildfires, with the largest blaze in Bordeaux damaging over 240 homes. The fires have generated a rare fire cloud, complicating firefighting efforts as conditions remain unstable.

The Virginia Aquarium has achieved a significant milestone with the birth of its first lesser Madagascar tenrec on June 29. This event is part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' Species Survival Plan, highlighting the aquarium's commitment to conservation.

A wildfire in Washington Terrace threatened homes and forced the evacuation of hundreds of homes Monday.The Adams Fire started just after 11 a.m. and quickly spread to an updated estimated size of 45 acres. Its cause has yet to be determined, and an investigation is now underway on the south perimet

A new report from the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality warns of declining groundwater supplies east of Interstate 95. This study, mandated by a 2024 bill from Republican State Sen. Richard Stuart, raises concerns about the impact of data centers on local water resources.

A wildfire in Oregon has led to the closure of Interstate 84 for 70 miles, prompting immediate evacuations in the town of Huntington. The Fox Fire, which remains active, has scorched nearly 72 square miles and is currently 0% contained.

An emergency order affecting 17 states has been issued as a precaution against potential rolling blackouts across the U.S. This order serves as a last resort before more severe energy alerts are declared.

EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin visited Hampton Roads to emphasize the importance of water reuse innovations and ongoing Chesapeake Bay restoration efforts. His visit highlights the region's commitment to environmental sustainability.

A family of ducks has been trapped in a fountain installation at City Center, with only one duckling remaining after several days. Wildlife experts warn that the structure poses a significant hazard for local wildlife, as it lacks adequate escape routes.

Federal wildlife authorities are investigating a disturbing video showing a person kicking a protected sea lion at La Jolla Cove in San Diego. The incident has drawn widespread condemnation, including from local officials.

Wildfires in France and Spain have forced more than 250,000 people to evacuate their homes. In response, France is deploying a massive cargo aircraft to drop flame retardants near Bordeaux.

Wildfires in France and Spain have led to the evacuation of more than 250,000 people, prompting officials to cut the final stage of the Tour de France. Security personnel are being redeployed to manage the crisis as thousands flee their homes.

Raging wildfires in southern Europe have forced over 250,000 people to evacuate, with France deploying military aircraft to combat the flames. The final stage of the Tour de France has been shortened to redirect security personnel to assist in firefighting efforts.

A new study highlights the potential decline of groundwater in Virginia's eastern region due to data center usage and population growth, calling for stricter regulations on water withdrawal. The report, delayed for months, emphasizes the need for better oversight of industrial water use.

Rangers at Murchison Falls National Park have begun relocating 12 endangered Nubian giraffes to Ajai Wildlife Reserve to protect them from oil drilling activities. This conservation effort aims to preserve the species and enhance biodiversity in the region.

Massive wildfires in southwestern France and central Spain have forced the evacuation of over 200,000 people. The fires, exacerbated by high temperatures and climate change, have led to scenes of panic as residents flee their homes.

Brazil is utilizing forensic science to address illegal gold mining in the Amazon, a significant threat to the rainforest and Indigenous communities. The National Institute of Criminalistics has established a 'gold lab' to trace the origins of gold samples, helping to identify illegally sourced materials.

A leatherback sea turtle has laid eggs on a naval installation beach in Virginia Beach, marking the first recorded nesting of this species in the state. The nesting event is significant as leatherbacks typically nest only as far north as North Carolina.

A leatherback turtle nesting site was discovered at Naval Air Station Oceana Dam Neck Annex, marking a historic first for Virginia. This exciting find highlights the region's ecological significance and the importance of conservation efforts.

The Trump administration has rolled back federal protections for critical habitats of endangered species in Virginia, raising concerns among conservationists. This change allows for potential development in areas crucial for the survival of various vulnerable wildlife.

Virginia Beach is experiencing an unusual surge in Eastern cottontails, causing significant damage to landscaping in public parks. City crews have reported thousands of rabbits along the Boardwalk, raising concerns among local horticulturists.

A leatherback sea turtle, the largest turtle species, has laid eggs at NAS Oceana, marking the first nesting occurrence in Virginia. These turtles can grow up to 6 feet and weigh as much as 2,000 pounds, highlighting the importance of this event for local wildlife conservation efforts.

The Trump administration has finalized changes to the Endangered Species Act, removing federal protections for critical habitats. Experts warn that states lack the necessary laws and funding to effectively manage these areas, raising concerns for endangered species.

Virginia's tribes remain hopeful about joining the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Agreement despite a missed deadline for inclusion recommendations. The decision has been postponed to December, emphasizing the importance of Indigenous knowledge in conservation efforts.

As California's Central Valley faces severe water restrictions due to climate change, farmers like Todd Tracy are embracing solar energy solutions. With significant portions of farmland left dry, the shift to solar represents a critical adaptation strategy for sustaining agricultural operations.

A new study reveals that extreme snow droughts in the Western U.S. will become more frequent due to climate change, with significant impacts on water resources and wildfire risks. The likelihood of such droughts is projected to rise dramatically by the end of the century.

A leatherback sea turtle has laid eggs at the Naval Air Station Oceana Dam Neck Annex, marking the first recorded nesting in Virginia. This significant event highlights the unique occurrence of this species nesting outside its typical tropical habitats.

Farmers in Virginia Beach, particularly at Vaughan Farm’s Produce in Pungo, are facing drought challenges. Recent rainfall may provide some relief, but concerns linger about its timing and impact on seasonal yields.

Scientists have moved 30 pieces of endangered elkhorn coral from Florida nurseries to a hatchery to protect them from potential mass bleaching due to rising water temperatures. This action comes after previous heat waves have left coral populations functionally extinct along the Florida coast.