NTA Video Stories

Zaragoza, Spain – A Spanish Army emergency helicopter is supporting operations against the Orés wildfire, with aerial footage showing the scale of the blaze spreading across hills, fields, and wooded areas. Video from the helicopter captures thick smoke rising above the landscape as flames burn through green and blackened terrain. Wide aerial views reveal fire activity across agricultural areas and forested sections, with large smoke columns visible under a hazy sky. The Emergency Helicopter Battalion II of the Spanish Army’s Air Mobile Forces has deployed resources to strengthen firefighting efforts in Zaragoza. The unit provides support and assistance during emergencies and works with the Military Emergency Unit on rescue, assistance, and fire suppression operations. Part of the battalion’s resources have joined the response to the Orés forest fire, which began around July 15 in the Cinco Villas region. Multiple ground and aerial teams continue working to contain the wildfire.

Zaragoza Province, Spain – Spanish military personnel from the Emergency Military Unit continue working in Malpica de Arba to support forest firefighters and BRIF teams battling the Orés wildfire. Footage shows military crews operating at night as flames spread across hillsides. Emergency vehicles with flashing lights move along roads while thick smoke and large fire fronts illuminate the dark landscape. Heavy machinery marked for the military emergency unit works close to the blaze, clearing firebreaks and supporting containment efforts. Firefighters and personnel in protective gear operate alongside engines and equipment as the wildfire continues burning. The Orés fire, which started around July 15, 2026, in the Cinco Villas region, has burned an estimated 7,600 to more than 12,000 hectares. Around 1,000 residents from Orés, Asín, Luesia, Uncastillo, Malpica de Arba, and Petilla de Aragón in Navarra have been evacuated. At least 10 homes in Asín were damaged. Spanish forces are carrying out support and containment operations in coordination with Aragón forest fire services and BRIF teams as crews continue efforts to stop the wildfire’s advance.

Turin, Italy – Extinction Rebellion painted a Toret fountain in the city center bright fluorescent green to protest extreme heat waves and drought conditions. The fountain, located in Piazza Arbarello and described as being in a state of neglect, was transformed with a bright green coating and the message “Heat and drought: those who govern leave you dry.” The action turned the Toret fountain, one of Turin’s public water symbols, into a protest display against climate policies of the government and the Piedmont Region. The fountain was also decorated with flower pots and cups available for people to use for drinking water. Extinction Rebellion said the fluorescent green color was chosen because it is associated with warning and contamination and has become a visual symbol of the movement. The group said the protest was intended to draw attention to extreme heat, drought, fires, infrastructure damage, and pressure on water resources. Extinction Rebellion also criticized responses to the water crisis, highlighting concerns about drought conditions, low river levels, and melting glaciers.

Iceland – The UK Carrier Strike Group is carrying out a historic NATO Air Policing mission near Iceland, with F-35B fifth-generation fighter aircraft operating from HMS Prince of Wales for the first time. F-35B jets from 809 Naval Air Squadron are deployed aboard the aircraft carrier as part of efforts with Icelandic authorities to keep Icelandic airspace safe and secure. The mission, known as Airborne Surveillance and Interception Capabilities to Meet Iceland’s Peacetime Preparedness Needs, is a peacetime operation unique to Iceland. The UK Carrier Strike Group is operating under NATO command in the High North, Arctic, and Euro-Atlantic regions while demonstrating its ability to operate in a strategically important area. HMS Prince of Wales is accompanied by HMS Duncan and RFA Tidespring during Operation Firecrest in the first half of 2026, showcasing the UK’s advanced warfighting capability for NATO and Joint Expeditionary Force alliances. The operation and previous exercises with NATO allies strengthen collective defence, reinforce deterrence, and highlight the readiness of the sailors, soldiers, and aviators of the UK Carrier Strike Group.

Sydney, Australia – Engineers have created a new drone that nearly disappears during flight by using a high-speed spinning design based on motion blur. Called the “Phantom Twist,” the drone rotates up to 25 times per second, causing it to appear as a faint, ghostly blur that blends into its surroundings instead of showing a clear shape. Unlike a typical quadcopter with four separate rotors, the Phantom Twist uses one motor and one propeller. The propeller spins in one direction while the rest of the drone rotates in the opposite direction, eliminating stationary parts visible to the human eye. Researchers used computer models, artificial intelligence, and optimization algorithms to generate and test thousands of possible designs. The system selected configurations that reduced visibility from different angles while maintaining stable flight. The team evaluated the designs by simulating the drones over real-world backgrounds and using a model based on human vision to measure how noticeable they appeared. The optimized drone was found to be about 10 times less visually perceptible than a conventional quadcopter. Researchers say the technology could eventually support wildlife monitoring, environmental surveys, and infrastructure inspections with less visual disruption. The Phantom Twist still has limitations, including propeller noise and visible wires and support rods. Future versions may use more transparent materials or quieter propulsion to make it even less noticeable.

Texas – Dramatic footage shows Texas Game Wardens carrying a young child through deep floodwaters during an ongoing rescue response across the state. The video from an inflatable boat shows wardens in bright yellow high-visibility gear and helmets moving through murky brown water surrounding homes, trees, and submerged yards. One warden carefully carries a small child wearing a blue life vest and snorkel mask toward the rescue boat while other rescuers assist nearby. The team lifts the child aboard a gray Yamaha-powered vessel as gray skies cover the flooded residential area. Texas Game Wardens have rescued more than 40 people from rising floodwaters, including residents trapped in homes, submerged vehicles, and vehicles swept off roadways. The response continues with partner agencies as heavy rains affect large portions of the state, particularly Uvalde County and surrounding areas. Officials continue to urge people never to drive or walk through floodwaters as rivers and creeks continue to rise.

Uvalde County, Texas – Dramatic aerial footage shows residents being rescued from floodwaters surrounding homes as Texas Game Wardens and Texas Department of Public Safety personnel carry out helicopter operations. Murky brown water covers houses, vehicles, and yards under dark skies as a rescuer in a bright yellow-green high-visibility suit works among trees and debris. Inside the helicopter, crew members in tactical gear and life vests hoist people aboard using harnesses and help them into seats as the aircraft continues operations over the flooded landscape. The joint rescue crew included a Texas Game Warden helicopter, a pilot, a rescue swimmer, and a Texas Department of Public Safety hoist operator. Heavy rains caused the Leona River and local creeks in Uvalde County to overflow, isolating communities, submerging roads, and trapping residents in homes and vehicles. Texas Game Wardens have taken part in more than 40 rescues across the region, with the majority in Uvalde County, using boats and aircraft. Statewide emergency teams have saved well over 70 people. Officials continue urging residents to avoid flooded roads and follow evacuation guidance as more rain remains possible.

Gulf of Oman – Dramatic footage shows U.S. Marines from the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit conducting a verification boarding aboard the M/T Wen Yao on July 16, 2026. The video captures Marines preparing equipment, coiled ropes, and rifles before a gray Marine Corps helicopter lifts off from a ship over open water. A large black-hulled tanker with a green deck and white superstructure is seen nearby, with a U.S. warship visible in the distance. Armed Marines descend from the helicopter onto the tanker’s deck, move across pipes and equipment, and secure positions near orange-clad crew members as the boarding team establishes control. The operation was carried out as part of the renewed U.S. naval blockade against vessels traveling to or from Iranian ports. U.S. forces reported redirecting three commercial vessels attempting to evade restrictions, disabling one vessel that did not comply, and boarding one vessel to confirm adherence during the latest 24-hour period. The Strait of Hormuz and surrounding waters remain open to legitimate traffic while U.S. forces continue operations against vessels attempting to violate the blockade.

Albay Province, Philippines – Dramatic footage shows dark gray ash and smoke rising from the southwestern flank of Mayon Volcano as new lava activity continues at the Mi-isi Gully. Glowing orange lava moves down the gully, with incandescent material visible as the advancing flow collapses and breaks apart. A thick ash plume spreads across the scene during the ongoing volcanic activity. Residents in communities south and east of the volcano may experience light ashfall carried by weak winds. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology reports continued lava flow advancement and collapse at the Mi-isi Gully on Mayon Volcano’s southwestern flank. Alert Level 3 remains in effect over the volcano. This level indicates increased chances of hazardous explosive eruptions. Residents are advised to remain vigilant, avoid the 6-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone, and prepare for possible impacts as monitoring continues.

Uvalde County, Texas – Dramatic helicopter footage shows a Texas Department of Public Safety aircrew rescuing a young girl, her family members, and their two dogs from rising floodwaters. The video captures rescuers in bright yellow-green gloves and orange gear working from a hovering helicopter as family members are secured into harnesses and lifted one by one. Two dogs, including one white dog and one smaller fluffy dog, are carefully handled and brought aboard during the rescue. The footage shows a rainy, overcast sky, wooden fencing, a flooded yard with a blue pool below, and the steady winch operation as the family is pulled to safety. The rescue took place in Uvalde County on July 15, 2026, as heavy rains caused widespread flooding across South and Central Texas. Up to 28 inches of rain fell in parts of Uvalde County, turning streets into rivers, isolating communities, and forcing high-water rescues. Emergency crews, including Texas Game Wardens, local responders, and DPS aircraft, have pulled more than 70 people to safety. Officials continue urging residents to stay away from flooded roads and follow guidance from local officials as recovery efforts continue.

San Bernardino, California – A vegetation fire spread across dry, brush-covered hills as firefighters and aircraft worked to slow the blaze near Foothill Drive and Manzanita Drive. Flames moved along the ridge of a steep hillside under heavy gray smoke, with bright orange fire fronts advancing through light, flashy fuels. The footage shows San Bernardino County Fire engines, CAL FIRE trucks, and U.S. Forest Service vehicles positioned along dirt roads while firefighters in yellow gear worked near the equipment. A large red-and-white air tanker later made a sharp turn over the burning slopes and released a long stream of vivid pink fire retardant. Additional aircraft appeared overhead as smoke continued rising from active hot spots. The fire was reported at approximately 40 acres before aerial mapping updated the size to 26.5 acres. San Bernardino County Fire, CAL FIRE San Bernardino Unit, and the San Bernardino National Forest responded to the incident under unified command. Air tankers dropped multiple loads of retardant while ground crews built containment lines. Forward spread was stopped and containment reached 30 percent by evening. No structures were damaged and no injuries were reported. The cause of the fire remains under investigation as crews continued operations through the night.

Southlake, Texas – A routine traffic stop on State Highway 114 turned into a life-threatening emergency when Corporal Swisher responded to a vehicle with heavy smoke coming from it. After directing the vehicle safely onto the shoulder, flames suddenly erupted from underneath the car. Realizing the driver was still inside, Corporal Swisher immediately moved toward the burning vehicle, pulled the driver to safety, and helped prevent a tragic outcome. The intense moments were captured on body camera and dashcam footage, showing the officer’s quick response during the emergency. For his courage, quick thinking, and decisive actions, Corporal Swisher received the Southlake Police Department’s Meritorious Conduct Award.

Persian Gulf Region – U.S. military jets launched from an undisclosed location and carried out precision strikes against Iranian military targets during operations in the region. The footage shows jets taxiing, taking off, and conducting missions before deploying precision munitions in coordinated strikes. Nighttime and daytime scenes capture aircraft movements, weapon releases, and distant impacts during the operations. The strikes targeted Iranian coastal defenses, missile sites, and related infrastructure, including air defense systems, command networks, coastal radar, anti-ship missiles, and Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps vessels. The operation took place on or around July 16, 2026, following Iranian attacks on merchant vessels, including strikes on tankers in the Strait of Hormuz. The strikes aimed to reduce Iran’s ability to disrupt international maritime commerce while supporting freedom of navigation. No U.S. casualties were reported, and operations concluded successfully as part of broader efforts to deter further aggression amid regional tensions.

Amandola, Italy – Firefighters carried out a nighttime operation to recover a horse that had fallen into a ravine in the Villa Conti area. The Amandola team, with support from a veterinarian who arrived at the scene, first tried to help the animal stand again, but the attempt was unsuccessful. The rescue operation continued throughout the night. At dawn, the helicopter Drago 170 from the Pescara unit helped complete the recovery. The horse was lifted out of the ravine and then handed over to veterinary personnel for care.

Grant County, Oregon – Dramatic aerial footage shows air tankers releasing bright pink fire retardant over forested terrain near the Olive Butte Fire. The aircraft makes multiple low-level passes, dropping long streams of vivid red and pink retardant onto trees and the fire perimeter as heavy smoke rises from the burning area below. A separate clip shows a heavy oversize-load flatbed truck traveling along a winding dirt road with a massive column of smoke visible in the background. The Olive Butte Fire was started by lightning on July 8, 2026, in Grant County, Oregon, and has burned more than 2,000 acres amid steep terrain, heavy fuels, and challenging conditions. Air tankers are dropping fire retardant to slow the spread of the blaze and protect nearby communities, including Granite, which has faced Level 3 evacuation orders. Ground resources, including dozers and crews, continue building containment lines. The fire remains part of a larger complex of lightning-started fires in the region, with no structures reported lost as of recent updates.

Zaragoza, Spain – Multiple aerial clips from a helicopter reveal the Orés wildfire burning across hills, forests, and agricultural fields in the Zaragoza area. Thick gray and white smoke blankets the landscape as active flames appear along ridges and through vegetation in several sections of the blaze. The footage shows the fire perimeter from above, with dirt roads, harvested plots, and surrounding terrain visible through the smoke. As the helicopter moves, visibility decreases in areas covered by heavier smoke. BRIF teams from Cuenca are relocating to a different work sector as the wildfire continues to burn. The fire, which started around July 15 in the Cinco Villas region of Zaragoza, has scorched an estimated 7,600 to more than 12,000 hectares. Around 1,000 residents from Orés, Asín, Luesia, Uncastillo, Malpica de Arba, and Petilla de Aragón in Navarra remain evacuated. Irregular winds continue to complicate containment efforts involving BRIF teams, the Military Emergency Unit, ground crews, and aerial resources.

Zaragoza, Spain – Aerial footage from a helicopter captures the Orés wildfire burning across hilly, forested terrain mixed with agricultural fields in the Zaragoza area. Thick plumes of white and gray smoke rise from multiple active fire fronts as flames spread along ridgelines and through vegetation. The camera moves over scorched and green landscapes, dirt tracks, and open fields while the wildfire continues to burn. A second clip shows a hillside with active flames advancing through scrub and trees under heavy smoke. BRIF teams from Cuenca are being moved to another sector of the Orés wildfire to continue working where the situation requires. Each change requires a new strategy, but the objective remains the same. The wildfire, which began around July 15, 2026, has burned an estimated 7,600 to more than 12,000 hectares. Irregular winds have complicated firefighting efforts involving ground crews, the Military Emergency Unit, and aerial resources. The fire has forced the evacuation of roughly 1,000 people from several towns, including Orés, Asín, Luesia, Uncastillo, Malpica de Arba, and Petilla de Aragón in Navarra. Homes in Asín sustained damage as the blaze advanced.

Washington DC – A four-legged robot has demonstrated the ability to quickly switch between different motor skills to navigate uneven terrain, move through forests, climb stairs, and jump over obstacles such as fallen branches and stepping stones. Researchers developed a new reinforcement learning framework that allows the robot to select from a set of pre-trained movement skills and autonomously adapt to different environments. The system, called action pretrained transformer-based reinforcement learning, or APT-RL, helps the robot perform agile and high-speed movements using only onboard perception and computation. The framework includes three learning phases. The robot first learns basic gait patterns, including trotting and bounding, on flat terrain using a large two-dimensional motion dataset. It then learns to choose suitable movements for different obstacles and environments through reinforcement learning. In the final stage, the robot improves its actions using real-world sensory information. Tests showed that the robot equipped with APT-RL could travel across paved pathways and forested areas, climb stairs, and jump over obstacles by switching between different motor skills. Researchers said future versions of the framework could help enable autonomous search and rescue operations or exploration missions.

Democratic Republic of Congo – Scientists have identified a new species of colobus monkey living in the forests of the Democratic Republic of Congo. The first sign of the unknown primate came in 2008, when conservationists photographed an unidentified monkey during an expedition in Lomami National Park. After another sighting in 2018, researchers launched a mission to locate and formally describe the animal. The species has been given the scientific name Colobus congoensis and the common name “Likweli”, the name used by local communities. Although mostly black, the monkey can be recognized by a bright orange patch around its mouth, bare grey skin on its cheek bones, black skin around its eyes resembling a mask, and a distinctive patch of white fur around the anus. Likweli produce loud calls known as roars, interrupted by distinctive snorts. Their orange lips make these vocal displays visually as well as audibly striking. Field surveys found the species living across at least 1,700 square kilometers of closed-canopy forest between the Lomami and Lilo rivers. Researchers believe its range is far smaller than that of most other colobus monkeys, making it highly sensitive to habitat quality. The monkeys were usually seen in small groups and often alongside other monkey species. Because of their limited range and population size, researchers recommend that the species be listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List. Genetic and anatomical studies showed that Likweli are most closely related to black colobus monkeys despite being separated by more than 1,200 kilometers of forest. Researchers estimate the species split from its closest relatives between 5.78 and 3.44 million years ago. Colobus congoensis is only the fifth new species of African monkey to be described during the last 75 years.

Middle East – U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II stealth fighter aircraft received fuel from a KC-135 Stratotanker while flying patrols over the Middle East. Close-up aerial footage shows the gray fighters approaching and connecting to the tanker’s refueling boom high above hazy terrain typical of the region. The aircraft, carrying the markings “KANSAS” and “COYOTES” on their tails, are seen locking onto the boom from multiple angles during the fuel transfer. The video includes views from the boom operator looking down at the fighter aircraft, side profiles of the refueling connection, and green infrared night-vision footage showing the same operation after dark. U.S. Central Command said the F-35A Lightning II aircraft were receiving fuel while conducting patrol missions over the region. Aerial refueling allows the fifth-generation fighters to remain on station for longer periods without landing. The operations support ongoing U.S. force presence and readiness within the CENTCOM area of responsibility. Similar missions involving KC-135 tankers and F-35 aircraft have been documented throughout 2026 as part of routine air operations.

Caposele (AV) – Firefighters carried out an overnight rescue operation in Caposele, in the province of Avellino, after a man fell into an underground shaft while carrying out work activities. Teams from the Lioni and Avellino stations worked for more than five hours, performing a delicate excavation operation to reach the man and recover him safely. At the end of the rescue effort, the 37-year-old was brought out and handed over to medical personnel for the necessary treatment.

Perth, Australia – A short video from Perth Zoo shows pygmy marmosets sharing snacks in a charming interaction captured by Keeper Chloe. The tiny primates are seen enjoying treats together, highlighting their social and playful nature. The footage shows the world’s smallest monkeys sharing food side by side, providing a glimpse of their close social bonds and cooperative behavior. The interaction captures the pygmy marmosets taking part in a zoo enrichment activity that supports their natural behaviors.

Iran – U.S. Central Command completed an evening wave of strikes against Iran at 9 p.m. ET on July 15. U.S. forces struck Iranian command centers, air defense sites, missile and drone capabilities, and coastal surveillance facilities. CENTCOM used precision munitions to hit targets in multiple locations, including Bandar Abbas, to further degrade Iran’s ability to threaten innocent mariners crewing commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz. Earlier on July 15, American forces struck coastal defense and cruise missile sites on Greater Tunb Island during a 90-minute wave. The U.S. military said it is holding Iran accountable at the direction of the Commander in Chief.

Benetússer, Valencia, Spain – A three-story residential building on Calle Las Américas in Benetússer collapsed completely during the night of July 14-15, 2026. Residents had been evacuated just minutes earlier after noticing cracks and unusual noises in the structure. The timely evacuation prevented any injuries or fatalities. Nighttime footage shows firefighters from the Valencia Provincial Firefighters Consortium working at the collapse site. A large pile of rubble covered the street, with concrete, bricks, and debris scattered across the area. An orange excavator operated on the debris while firefighters wearing high-visibility uniforms and helmets inspected the scene with flashlights. A damaged car was partially buried under the rubble as teams coordinated near the collapse site. Police vehicles and emergency lights were visible, and responders were seen near a stretcher while assessing the area. Firefighters worked through the night to secure the site and manage the debris. Authorities are investigating the cause of the collapse, while the neighboring building was also evacuated as a precaution.

Sant Quirze Safaja, Catalonia, Spain – A wildfire broke out on July 15, 2026, in the municipality of Sant Quirze Safaja in the Moianès region. Aerial footage shows thick gray and white smoke rising from the ground as orange flames burn through vegetation on the hillsides. The fire initially affected an estimated 20 hectares of land, according to provisional data from Agents Rurals. Within around 35 minutes, the affected area grew to approximately 70 hectares, mostly forested land. Additional aerial footage shows a taller and denser column of smoke rising from the active fire front, with flames visible along the perimeter as the blaze moves through forest and terrain. The footage highlights the scale of the wildfire, with smoke spreading across the hilly landscape while fields, roads, and scattered buildings can be seen in the distance. Agents Rurals are investigating the cause of the fire while firefighting efforts continue.

Orés, Zaragoza, Spain – Dashcam-style footage shows the arrival of the Spanish Military Emergency Unit (UME) BIEM4 battalion as firefighters respond to the Orés wildfire. Thick orange smoke filled the road ahead, reducing visibility as a vehicle followed a truck through the haze. Bright flames could be seen along the roadside. At the fire front, firefighters wearing red UME uniforms stood ready with hoses on a dry field. Red fire trucks were positioned nearby as heavy smoke and intense flames rose from burning hillsides. The Spanish Military Emergency Unit deployed its BIEM4 battalion to the Orés wildfire in Zaragoza province on July 15, 2026. Regional firefighting teams from Aragon coordinated the response alongside UME personnel. Firefighters worked with hoses and heavy equipment to contain the blaze spreading across hillsides.

Jeff Davis County, Georgia – The Jeff Davis County Sheriff’s Office responded after three bulls escaped early May 9, 2026, and ran through roads near Hazlehurst, damaging property and acting aggressively toward law enforcement. A deputy said he initially responded to reports of cows damaging property in the roadway but found the animals were bulls. The deputy reported that the bulls ran toward his patrol vehicle, causing him to reverse to avoid them. He also said the bulls followed his vehicle and damaged mailboxes along the road. The incident ended at a home on Fred Bush Road, where another deputy said he was cornered on a porch as two bulls approached. The deputy shot both bulls, and the animals died. Deputies later located the owners, who said the bulls escaped after damaging a fence. The remaining bull was guided back to their property. The owner said the bulls were dairy bulls and that one of the bulls was very aggressive, according to the incident report. The report also stated that the owner said the bulls were going to be butchered in September for meat. Sheriff Preston Bohannon said video footage publicly released from the May 9 incident represents only one portion of the full sequence of events. He said additional video recordings and documentation related to the case have not been released. The sheriff said the office is working to redact personal and protected information from incident reports and video footage to comply with privacy laws. Once the process is complete, the Jeff Davis County Sheriff’s Office said it will release the complete incident reports and available video footage.

Iran – U.S. Central Command completed an additional round of strikes against Iran at 10 p.m. ET on July 14, hitting dozens of military targets near the Strait of Hormuz and Iranian coastal areas. During the seven-hour wave, U.S. fighter aircraft, drones, and naval vessels launched precision munitions against Iranian missile and drone sites, naval capabilities, and coastal defense systems. The strikes were carried out to further degrade Iran’s ability to threaten commercial shipping and civilian crews. The operation took place on the same day U.S. forces resumed the naval blockade against vessels traveling to or from Iranian ports and coastal areas. The blockade went into effect at 4 p.m. ET on July 14. U.S. forces remain vigilant, lethal, and prepared to execute operations directed by the Commander in Chief.

Milas, Muğla, Turkey – Nighttime footage shows intense firefighting operations against a major wildfire on a hillside in Milas, Muğla province. The blaze illuminated the night sky with towering orange and red flames as vegetation and trees burned. Thick smoke glowed against the darkness while firefighters worked near the active fire line. Red forestry fire trucks with flashing lights were positioned in the area as crews equipped with headlamps and hoses fought the flames. Heavy machinery, including bulldozers, operated through smoke and fire as teams carried out suppression efforts. Sparks and embers could be seen flying through the air while crews sprayed water or retardant. A significant forest fire erupted in Milas district on the evening of July 14, 2026. Forestry teams, supported by aircraft, helicopters, ground crews, and heavy machinery, worked through the night to contain the flames. The fire was largely brought under control by the following day, while mop-up operations continued amid broader wildfire activity across the Muğla region.

Portland, Oregon – Tamu, a 2-year-old eastern black rhinoceros at the Oregon Zoo, has reached a massive milestone by weighing 2,040 pounds. Born on Dec. 4, 2023, the young rhino is nearly as large as his 2,600-pound mother, Jozi. “He’s the only 2-year-old I know who weighs a ton,” said Virginia Grimley, a keeper in the zoo’s Africa area. “He’s growing up big and strong, just like a young rhinoceros should.” Care staff said Tamu is still expected to grow, with another year or two before he catches up to his 3,100-pound father, King. “Tamu is a lot of fun to watch,” Grimley said. “He might be almost as big as his parents, but he still runs around and plays like the young rhino he is.” Tamu can usually be seen with Jozi for now, but he is nearing the age and size where wild male rhinos naturally move away from their mothers. Eventually, he may need the opportunity to mingle with other young rhinos. “These animals represent a species that’s among the most imperiled on the planet,” Grimley said. “Hopefully, Tamu can eventually have calves of his own and help grow the population.” Tamu and his parents belong to the eastern subspecies of black rhinoceros. The western subspecies of black rhino was declared extinct in 2011.

Pinellas County, Florida – On July 4, 2026, the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office Air Unit spotted a vehicle launching fireworks from the passenger window while traveling on Interstate 95. The fireworks were observed landing in the median and traffic lanes as vehicles passed on the highway, leading to a law enforcement response. Patrol deputies located the silver SUV and stopped the vehicle. The occupants initially denied involvement until deputies informed them the activity had been captured on camera. Aerial infrared footage showed the SUV traveling southbound on I-95 with bright flashes from objects being ejected from the passenger side and landing near traffic lanes. The passenger was arrested and charged with shooting a deadly missile from a moving vehicle. Officials reminded the public that fireworks should be handled safely and responsibly, including using them only from a hard surface and keeping a safe distance from people and other objects.

Pinellas County, Florida – Deputies responded after receiving a call about a citizen walking along US 19 and were unsure what situation they were heading toward. The call unexpectedly involved two ducklings that had fallen into a storm drain while a citizen was attempting to rescue them as they crossed the highway. The ducklings’ mother was nowhere in sight, and with US 19 being a busy roadway, it was unknown what had happened. Thanks to the caring citizen and Deputies Urf and Norton, the ducklings were safely retrieved. The ducklings appeared to be uninjured and were taken to Owl’s Nest Sanctuary for Wildlife to be checked out. Officials advised people who find injured or orphaned wildlife to call first so experts can guide them on whether and how to help before they arrive. They also advised helping only when it is safe, not offering food or water to injured wildlife, keeping distance while monitoring the animal, and keeping other people and pets away from the area.

Charleston, South Carolina – Coast Guard Sector Charleston response personnel responded to a submerged shipyard crane that fell into the Cooper River near Pier G in Charleston, South Carolina, on July 12, 2026. The Coast Guard Sector Charleston Captain of the Port established a 100-yard safety zone around the crane following the collapse. Boom was deployed around the area as response operations continued near the submerged crane.

Iran – U.S. Central Command completed a morning round of strikes against Iran at 7:30 a.m. ET on July 15. During the 90-minute wave, CENTCOM launched precision munitions against coastal defense systems as well as cruise missile storage and launch sites on Greater Tunb Island. The strikes further degraded Iran’s ability to attack commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

Northern Minnesota, United States – Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz declared a peacetime emergency on July 12, 2026, activating the Minnesota National Guard in support of aerial wildfire suppression operations in Northern Minnesota. On July 13, 23 members of the Minnesota National Guard supported the mission with four UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters. The helicopters and crews based their operations at the City of Orr Airport as aerial wildfire suppression efforts continued. The Minnesota National Guard said it remains “Always ready, Always there” to protect life, preserve property, and support Minnesota’s communities and civil authorities.

Iran – U.S. forces enforced naval blockade measures against Iran on July 15 by disabling an unladen oil tanker that was attempting to sail toward an Iranian port in the Arabian Gulf. U.S. Central Command forces observed the Curacao-flagged M/T Belma as it traveled through international waters toward Kharg Island. The commercial vessel ignored multiple warnings while attempting to violate the U.S. blockade. A U.S. aircraft disabled the vessel after firing Hellfire missiles into the ship’s smokestack. The ship is no longer transiting to Iran. U.S. forces resumed the naval blockade against vessels traveling to or from Iranian ports and coastal areas at 4 p.m. ET on July 14. During the first 24 hours of enforcement, CENTCOM redirected two compliant commercial vessels and disabled one non-compliant vessel. U.S. forces remain vigilant and prepared to ensure full compliance.

Hawaii, United States – After several days of precursor lava flows and pauses in activity, episode 51 of the ongoing summit eruption at Kīlauea began at 8:30 a.m. HST on Wednesday, July 15. By 10:15 a.m. HST, the USGS Volcano Alert Level remained at WATCH, while the Aviation Color Code stayed at ORANGE. The lava eruption was confined to Halemaʻumaʻu crater within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. The USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory stated in a Volcanic Activity Notice that “communities may be impacted by wind-blown tephra,” explaining that “low level winds are out of the northeast and higher level winds are from the south.” In an update issued at 10:06 a.m., the Observatory reported that the plume cloud from the eruption had climbed to about 17,000 feet, or 5,000 meters, above sea level. The plume remained mostly centered over the area just southwest of the vents. According to the notice issued shortly after 9 a.m. HST, lava fountains from the north vent were reaching heights of around 160 feet, or 50 meters, above ground level. Peak fountaining generally occurs one to two hours after an episode begins. The north vent fountains were feeding large lava flows across the floor of Halemaʻumaʻu crater. At that time, no fountains or lava flows were erupting from the south vent. Ground-level sensors near the eruptive vents indicated winds of 5 to 10 mph, or 2 to 5 m/s, from the east-northeast. This suggested that volcanic gas emissions and volcanic material could move west-southwest from Halemaʻumaʻu. The notice warned that tephra, including ash, could be carried toward communities in the Kaʻu District, including Pāhala and Nāʻālehu, as well as Highway 11 southwest of Volcano. Higher level winds from the south also created the possibility of tephra spreading into communities adjacent to and north of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.

Íscar, Spain – A wildfire started at 4:30 p.m. on July 14, 2026, between the town and the hillside of the castle in Íscar, Valladolid province, close to nearby homes. Aerial footage from a helicopter showed flames burning along the fire perimeter as thick gray and brown smoke rose over dry fields, scattered trees, and nearby buildings. The fire advanced at a speed of 33 meters per minute during its first hour, leading to the deployment of extensive firefighting resources from the beginning of the incident. The wind initially pushed the flames away from the town as crews worked to contain the blaze. The fire affected part of the historic castle area, with aircraft carrying out water or retardant drops over the burning vegetation. The wildfire burned through pine forest, fields, and vegetation near Íscar. Favorable progress was reported by evening, although low nighttime humidity increased the risk of the fire restarting in dry grass.

Phoenix, Arizona – A high-angle timelapse from Phoenix City Hall captured the dramatic arrival of the first major monsoon storm of 2026. The footage began at sunset with golden light shining through scattered clouds over the city skyline and distant mountains. A massive wall of dust then moved across the horizon, covering buildings and streets in a thick orange-brown haze as visibility dropped. The haboob swept across the urban landscape, creating an eerie twilight scene as city lights became visible through the dust-filled sky. Phoenix experienced its first significant taste of the 2026 monsoon season as the powerful dust storm moved through the city during the evening hours. The event marked the beginning of Arizona’s monsoon period after weeks of extreme heat.

Uvalde County, Texas – Texas Game Wardens responded to multiple swiftwater rescue calls in South Texas counties. In Uvalde County west of Sabinal, the occupants of a vehicle were rescued shortly before the pickup truck was swept away by powerful floodwaters. Dramatic footage showed a white pickup truck stranded on a flooded roadway as strong currents rushed around the vehicle. The truck was then carried away downstream by the force of the water. Texas Game Wardens said they will continue responding to calls and working with emergency management partners to protect Texans. Officials urged people to monitor local forecasts, follow instructions from local officials, and never drive through flooded roadways. The warning remains: “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.”

Vienna, Austria – A research project from Schönbrunn Zoo has received international recognition after scientist Susanne Stückler, PhD, was awarded for her study on black-spotted toads in India. The study focused on a rare natural event during the one- to two-day breeding period, when male black-spotted toads change from an ordinary brown color to bright yellow. Researchers found that the striking color change may help prevent mistaken pairings during the intense mating activity. Stückler explained that the discovery came through experiments using brown and yellow 3D toad models placed among hundreds of animals during the breeding period. The results showed that males embraced the brown models significantly more often than the yellow ones. The award-winning research was recognized as the “Best Paper Young Scholar in Herpetology for 2025” at the Joint Meeting of Ichthyologists and Herpetologists, an international conference for fish, amphibian, and reptile research. The study involved the University of Vienna, Brown University in the United States, local farmer Gopalkrishna Hedge, and herpetologist KV Gururaja, PhD. Researchers continue studying the amphibians in their natural habitat and at Schönbrunn Zoo, including behavior studies and the hormonal mechanisms behind the unusual color change.

Clay County, Florida – Clay County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a call about an escaped pig running loose in the area. Bodycam footage showed officers approaching the large pig on a grassy roadside area as they worked together to contain and capture the animal. Using coordinated movements and tools, deputies successfully secured the pig without incident. The footage captured the officers’ teamwork as they brought the unusual call to a safe resolution.

Tucson, Arizona – Tucson Fire crews responded to a swift water rescue at 12:07 a.m. near South Harrison and East Escalante roads. Engine 12 arrived at the scene three minutes later and found a vehicle stranded in the Pantano Wash, surrounded by fast-moving water. The driver had climbed onto the roof of the vehicle as floodwaters rushed around it. Firefighters from Quint 17 extended a ladder to the stranded vehicle, assisted the driver onto the ladder, and safely brought the person back to shore. Bodycam and scene footage showed emergency crews arriving at the flooded wash at night as a vehicle sat submerged up to its windows in the rushing water. The footage captured firefighters positioning the ladder truck, extending the aerial ladder across the current, and carrying out the rescue. No injuries were reported. Officials reminded residents that monsoon storms can quickly flood washes and roadways, even when it is not raining nearby, and warned drivers never to attempt crossing flooded areas.

Colorado, USA – Thousands of bats poured from the rocky entrance of the Orient Mine in a massive swirling cloud as they spread across the evening sky above a mountain valley. The footage showed the bats streaming out over distant peaks and a small green field below as dusk settled over the landscape. Colorado Parks and Wildlife said summer is the best time to see bats across the state as warmer temperatures and abundant insects bring increased activity. A second video showed bats darting and skimming low across the calm surface of Waneka Lake at twilight, while others flew higher against a backdrop of silhouetted trees and distant lights. On-screen text in the video read, “Watch them fly high Or skim the water!” alongside a location tag for Waneka Lake. Colorado Parks and Wildlife said the footage from the historic Orient Mine showed a large colony of Mexican free-tailed bats, also known as Brazilian free-tailed bats, leaving to forage for insects during warm summer evenings when activity is at its peak.

Philippines – Time-lapse footage captured glowing lava pouring from the summit crater of Mayon Volcano during the night of July 14, 2026. The sped-up recordings showed lava effusion and Strombolian activity at 8:09 p.m., 9:13 p.m., 10:27 p.m., and 10:48 p.m. as documented by the PHIVOLCS Quick Response Team. Bursts of incandescent material were thrown into the air while bright lava flows moved down the volcano’s slopes against the dark landscape. The effusive eruption at Mayon Volcano has continued for a 191st consecutive day, producing incandescent lava flows, pyroclastic density currents known as “uson”, and rockfalls. Alert Level 3 remains in effect at the volcano, and entry into the six-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone remains prohibited.

Sierra Valley, California – The Elephant Fire has reached 12,303 acres and is 5 percent contained, with more than 500 personnel assigned to the incident. Weather conditions remained overcast, with steady rain falling overnight and low visibility reported along roads throughout Sierra Valley. Video showed heavy fog engulfing a rural road as a black SUV with bright headlights slowly drove toward the camera past a parked RV trailer. The footage then shifted to a barbed-wire fence beside a grassy field, barely visible through the dense mist. Another scene showed a small town street where buildings were almost completely hidden by the fog as a white SUV with its taillights illuminated drove away near railroad crossing signs. Fire crews are using the current weather window to continue securing firelines while working toward full containment of the blaze. Portions of the Tahoe National Forest and Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest near the fire remain closed to the public.

Napa County, California – Improved mapping has updated the Hardin Fire to 78.6 acres with 60 percent containment. A rapid and coordinated response from firefighters on the ground and in the air prevented any structures from being damaged or destroyed. The fire burned primarily in annual grasses and spread at a moderate rate. Volunteer firefighters from the Napa County Fire Department played a critical role in the response by deploying three water tenders and one engine to the incident. An additional engine was staffed to continue fire protection for the Spanish Flat community and the Lake Berryessa area. Aerial and ground footage showed firefighters and aircraft working along the Hardin Fire perimeter in grassy terrain. Helicopters released water while air tankers laid down retardant lines to help contain the blaze as crews mopped up hot spots and smoke drifted across the landscape near Lake Berryessa.

Sonoma County, California – An air tanker dropped fire retardant over the Ledson Fire to slow the spread of the flames and allow ground crews to move in with direct suppression operations. Copter 616 carried out tactical water drops on the fire as crews focused on the most active section of the blaze. The northern end of the fire, on the left flank, remained the most active area during the operation. Aerial footage showed a long line of pink fire retardant falling across a burning hillside while the helicopter made multiple drops on active flames below. Thick smoke rose from the fire and remained visible across Sonoma County as firefighters continued their efforts. CAL FIRE, the Sonoma Sheriff, the County of Sonoma, and the Santa Rosa Fire Department were involved in the response.

Bandar Abbas, Iran – U.S. Central Command forces used multiple one-way attack surface drones to strike a submarine and ship maintenance facility in Iran on July 12, 2026. Three Corsair unmanned surface vessels hit the port at Bandar Abbas Naval Base during the operation. The attack marked the first time American forces have employed sea drones in combat operations. The strikes degraded Iran’s ability to continue attacking commercial shipping.

Strait of Hormuz – U.S. Central Command forces carried out new strikes against Iranian military targets. The strikes were launched in response to Iran’s attack on commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz.