Axios

Antarctica is missing over 1 million square miles of floating sea ice, even though it's currently the dead of winter in the Southern Hemisphere.

Why it matters: Scientists don't know what is driving the shortfall, but they are deeply concerned about its consequences, as sea ice influences the planet's climate, global ocean currents and marine ecosystems.

The Inflation Reduction Act is a mighty boon to the climate tech sector, with its hundreds of billions of dollars in federal spending, grants and tax incentives.

Behind the scenes: It's also creating a schism among climate tech-focused venture capitalists, who are warily eyeing next fall's elections.

Exxon CEO Darren Woods gave the strongest confirmation yet of the company's interest in lithium as electric vehicles boost demand.

Why it matters: Multiple U.S. oil companies see extraction and processing meshing with their skillsets — and now the most powerful player is among them.

Some Americans are being hit harder than others by the extreme heat wave baking swaths of the country because they can't get enough to eat or drink.

The big picture: Food-insecure households are among the most at risk of health and financial hardships during blistering temperatures. They face unique exposure to dehydration and costly relief that further strains dwindling food budgets.

Phoenix endured its 31st straight day of temperatures of at least 110°F Sunday, as a California wildfire spread into Nevada and another blaze threatened border communities in Washington state and Canada.

Driving the news: The UN's World Meteorological Organization notes climate change has "spurred a surge" in extreme weather reports — including Canada's historic wildfires and the dangerous, ongoing record heat wave in the U.S. and other countries.