Axios

Scientists have found genetics played a big role in why humans began talking — and they think this singular ability was key to our survival, AP reports.

Why it matters: A study out Tuesday links a particular gene to the ancient origins of spoken language. So a protein variant found only in humans may have helped us communicate in a novel way.

A massive, severe storm system that's slamming the U.S. Northeast with heavy snow has this weekend triggered flash flood warnings in West Virginia, Virginia, Tennessee and Kentucky, where officials reported at least 11 deaths.

The big picture: The multifaceted storm that began Saturday knocked out power to an estimated half a million customers from Virginia to Mississippi and delayed thousands of flights during the holiday weekend.