Disasters

"Tropical storm warnings have been issued for Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands."

"A coalition of environmental groups and Native American tribes is asking officials to overhaul federal mining standards ahead of new uranium mining near the Grand Canyon."

"Tropical Storm Erika formed  Monday night, the fifth named storm of the 2015 hurricane season. While Hurricane Danny struggled to maintain its intensity as it battled the hostile Atlantic environment, Tropical Storm Erika could prove to have more stamina, and is forecast to strengthen into a Category 1 hurricane by the time it reaches the Bahamas this weekend."

"The warehouse in Tianjin that exploded on Aug. 12 was one of many buildings across China that store toxic chemicals near residential areas or major roads, in violation of safety regulations, according to a review of satellite imagery and public records."

"As of this week, the average of the group of forecast models used to predict the intensity of El Niño are  calling for an event that would surpass the record-strong El Niño of 1997-1998."

"'Conditions may exist that could result in a... release of large volumes of contaminated mine waters,' stated a 2014 EPA report on the inactive Gold King Mine, whose toxic waters befouled rivers in 3 states earlier this month."

Seasonal tropical cyclones were active across the globe. Danny peaked as a category 3 hurricane, then weakened to a tropical storm as it approached the Leeward Islands. Goni threatened major rains to the Hawaiian Islands. Goni left a trail of death and destructions in the Philippines.

"Newly released documents show that firefighters responding to an oil train derailment and fire last year in Lynchburg, Va., waited more than two hours for critical details about the train and what was on it."