Earth’s tectonic plates driven by hot magma?

Plumes of hot magma from deep inside the Earth could propel tectonic plates around the globe, according to Scripps scientists.

Why the Arizona dust storm on July 5 was so huge

The huge dust storm in Phoenix on July 5, 2011 started with rapidly descending air moving outward from area thunderstorms - combined with a lot of available dust.

The new normal for U.S. climate reflects a warming world

Comparing average temperatures year round, every state experienced warmer temperatures in 1981–2010 compared to 1971–2000. Read about the new normal.

Brown tree snakes, pariahs of the Pacific islands

Brown tree snakes are rapidly eating their way through Guam and are poised to do the same to other islands. Can they be stopped?

Report on massive wall of dust in Phoenix on July 5, 2011

A massive wall of dust moved through Phoenix, Arizona Tuesday night, July 5. Hurricane force winds up 81 mph. Thousands temporarily without power.

Chemistry reveals where salmon spend their time

Scientists have discovered how to find out where Atlantic salmon spend their time at sea by analyzing the chemistry of their scales.

Non-native species: Should we embrace them?

Nineteen ecologists argue in the journal Nature we need to rethink management strategies for controlling non-native species. Do you agree?

Expanding light bubble over Hawaii in video

Professional astronomers captured footage of an expanding light bubble over Hawaii, but it took the combined efforts of citizen astronomers to shed light on its cause.

One of 2 hottest years on record was 2010

The NOAA 2010 State of the Climate report tracks 41 indicators, each one including thousands of measurements that allow scientists to identify overall trends. Read more about one of the hottest years on record.

See a twirling whale in this amazing video

This amazing video shows a fin whale twirling as it dives beneath a whale watching tour boat. Watch the twirling whale here.