Tropical Storm Amanda, FEMA preparedness, Smog level concerns, mangrove protection | The Forecasters

The Friday evening edition covers the climate and environment from the Pacific Ocean to low‑Earth orbit. Satellite imagery shows convection bursts from Tropical Storm Amanda ahead of her weakening in the Pacific. Meanwhile, FEMA faces questions of storm preparedness. With six uncontrolled wildfires burning nationwide, new research reveals how smoke is reversing decades of progress on reducing U.S. smog levels. Illinois pauses new data center agreements amid rising concerns over energy and water use, part of a broader national backlash tied to the AI boom. On the International Space Station, astronauts temporarily shelter after a newly detected leak, and later we explore how microgravity research could unlock breakthroughs in space‑based pharmaceuticals. Plus — a rare look at Union Pacific’s legendary “Big Boy 4014” locomotive as it rolls through DuPage County on its cross‑country tour, and a feature on global efforts to protect vulnerable mangrove ecosystems. Finally: we reveal our 'We Bet on Weather' forecast challenge leaderboard and dive into Chicagoland's weekend forecast.