Axios

Texans are used to hot weather, but the combination of tropical-level humidity with triple-digit high temperatures is making for a dangerous, precedent-busting extreme heat event.

Why it matters: On average, extreme heat is the biggest annual weather-related killer in the U.S., per the National Weather Service (NWS).

The private space company True Anomaly plans to build a training ground in orbit to help the U.S. military prepare for conflict in space.

Why it matters: Satellites have become a key part of warfighting efforts around the world, and operators need to practice working with them while the stakes are relatively low.

Tropical Storm Bret formed Monday afternoon in the Central Atlantic, after emerging off the west coast of Africa and tracking over record warm ocean waters for this time of year.

Why it matters: This storm shows what can happen when the tropical North Atlantic Ocean features temperatures more typical of September than June, defying seasonal norms.

Human-caused climate change is poised to heavily strain the U.S. power grid in the coming decades, and vast improvements are needed to enhance its reliability and ability to meet increasing electricity demands, experts say.

Why it matters: The effects of new weather extremes on the grid may be seen throughout the summer if intense heat waves trigger energy demand spikes that test the limits of power infrastructures nationwide, officials have warned.

Light pollution is increasingly brightening night skies, raising concerns about possible mental and physical health issues caused by disrupted sleep patterns and altered circadian rhythms.

Why it matters: Light pollution at night increased by 7%–10% each year from 2012 to 2022, according to a study published earlier this year, and it will likely continue to climb.

The United Nations adopted a landmark international treaty to govern the high seas on Monday after nearly two decades of negotiations.

Why it matters: The first-ever legally binding global agreement of its kind, known as the Treaty of the High Seas, provides framework for environmental protections to biodiversity in international waters — which cover over 60% of the Earth’s surface. Only 1.2% of the world's ocean areas are currently protected.