E-bike fires are sparking trouble in Seattle. Here's how to use them safely Seattle’s streets have become home to hundreds of electronic bikes and scooters in recent years, with a growing number of commuters and hobbyists relying on them to get around. As usage of these lithium-ion battery powered devices grows, so has the number of fires in connection with them. That’s prompted the Seattle Fire Department to urge caution when using and storing the devices. Gustavo Sagrero Álvarez
Bremerton treats Kitsap Lake to tackle toxic algae Ever heard of lanthanum? The city of Bremerton plans to use a powdered form of lanthanum to lower levels of phosphorus in the city’s only lake, Kitsap Lake. John Ryan
A Seattle hot dog with everything — but not all the permits Mobile food are popping up at more Seattle parks and beaches this summer - but many aren’t supposed to be open. Casey Martin
Five more Seattle libraries to become extreme-heat refuges Cold cash from the Federal Emergency Management Agency is helping Seattle cool its libraries. John Ryan
The grim reason fentanyl deaths are falling in King County Fatal fentanyl overdoses may have reached a peak in Washington state. But that's not all good news. Ann Dornfeld
King County gives away lockboxes to keep guns from being stolen, accidentally fired King County public health officials hope homes in the area will be a little safer after the county gave away thousands of firearm lockboxes. Eilís O'Neill
On-duty medic and fire units now staff Seattle sporting events and concerts, leaving coverage gaps A KUOW investigation found that the Seattle Fire Department diverted on-duty staff to work special events 147 times between November 2023 and November 2024, leaving fewer units to respond to emergencies citywide. Ann Dornfeld Play AudioListen 5 mins
Weed sick: High-potency cannabis leads to ER visits, illnesses for some users As cannabis products like vapes, shatter, and dabs have reached near 100% potency, lawmakers, researchers, and doctors have sounded the alarm about a potential public health crisis. Stephen Howie
Flu levels are at a 15-year high in the U.S., but many Washington children haven't gotten their flu shot Outbreaks and high levels of illnesses (like the flu) have become more common as vaccination rates have fallen, especially among children. Dyer Oxley Matt Martin Patricia Murphy
Seattle auditor says public park bathrooms stink The city of Seattle needs more clean public bathrooms, according to a report from the City Auditor out this month. The report cites a lack of available facilities and recommends some improvements. Casey Martin
