Sophia Schmidt covers the environment for WHYY’s PlanPhilly. Before coming to Philadelphia in 2021, Sophia reported on her home state of Delaware for Delaware Public Media and produced interviews for NPR’s “Weekend Edition.” Sophia was a 2021 Metcalf Fellow.
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Climate scientists say extreme rain behind deadly Bucks County flood is becoming more frequent
The storm behind the deadly Bucks County flood dumped about a month’s worth of rain in two hours. It’s the sort of deluge scientists say climate change could make more common.
3 years ago
Victims identified in Upper Makefield flooding, as search for missing children expands
“These people did not drive into high water,” said Fire Chief Tim Brewer. “They were caught.”
3 years ago
Environmental org creates tool to help municipalities regulate warehouse development
A model ordinance released by PennFuture aims to limit impacts like truck traffic and increased stormwater runoff.
3 years ago
Philly’s summer has been wetter than normal. So what’s with the drought watch?
Drought declarations are not just based on rain. They also consider soil moisture, stream flow, and groundwater, which tends to lag behind rain.
3 years ago
‘Replace fossil fuels’: Climate activists target PECO’s next power purchase plan
Every four years, PECO makes a plan to buy electricity for its customers. Climate activists want the utility to do something different the next time around.
3 years ago
This company turns food scraps into compost for Philly community gardens at an old city building
“Food waste from our rec centers becomes high-quality compost, adding valuable nutrients back into city soils,” one official said.
3 years ago
Are you working on environmental justice solutions in Philly? This new grant could help
Projects addressing heat, flooding, air pollution, litter, food insecurity, or other issues could be eligible.
3 years ago
‘We don’t have to be in jeopardy’: Philly gardeners cheer city deal to buy back liens
Community gardens on tax-delinquent land with privately held liens are considered particularly at risk for development.
3 years ago
Philly teens learned to install solar panels. Then asbestos closed their school
The celebrated Bright Solar Futures program went on, but without its key hands-on element.
3 years ago
Listen 3:35How wildfire smoke affects your health, and how to protect yourself
To protect yourself and your family, avoid going outside if possible and close windows and doors.
3 years ago
Listen 1:09Pennsylvania and New Jersey are under fire risk warning Tuesday
Be careful when discarding cigarette butts, keep vehicles off of dry grass, and consider skipping the campfire.
3 years ago
Listen 0:58Some Pa. residents can get free air conditioners this summer
It’s Pennsylvania’s second pilot to provide new A/C units and repairs to people who already received LIHEAP or weatherization assistance in the past year.
3 years ago
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