A massive earthquake in Russia sent tsunami waves surging toward the California coast, prompting warnings and elevated surf from Mendocino to the Oregon border. The National Weather Service reported waves up to three-and-a-half feet above normal, with Crescent City facing the highest flood risk. Alerts remain in effect for low-lying coastal areas. Officials warn the unusually high surf could continue through this morning.
Nine small restaurants in Mendocino County will receive $5,000 grants through a program funded by the PG&E Foundation and the California Restaurant Foundation. The money can be used for equipment upgrades, employee training, or other business improvements. Local recipients include The Q BBQ and Grille, Fog Eater Cafe, Mosswood Market Cafe, and Scoops Ice Cream. The grants are part of a larger $1.1 million effort to support 188 restaurants across PG&E’s service area.
Fire crews are making progress on the Medicine Fire northwest of Covelo, which is now 50% contained after burning 263 acres, according to Cal Fire. Three firefighters were injured while battling the blaze, though their conditions have not been disclosed. The fire broke out Sunday near Hopper Lane and Highway 162, triggering brief mandatory evacuations that were lifted later that evening. Crews remain on the ground working to fully contain the fire as the cause remains under investigation.
Lake County’s homelessness crisis will be the focus of a public meeting next month hosted by the Lake County Continuum of Care. The Community Conversation on Homelessness will explore current efforts, upcoming plans, and give space for those with lived experience to share their stories. Organizers say the issue touches everyone—from families to local businesses—and community input is key. The event takes place September 24 at 5:30 p.m. at the Soper Reese Theater in Lakeport.
California is joining 22 other states in a federal lawsuit challenging Medicaid cuts to Planned Parenthood. Filed in Boston, the suit argues that defunding the clinics violates their constitutional rights to free speech and expression. Supporters say the move targets organizations for their political views. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services says states shouldn’t be required to fund groups involved in political advocacy.
Two Clearlake churches are teaming up to help local students gear up for school. Praises of Zion Baptist and the Church of the Nazarene will host a free backpack giveaway on Saturday, Aug. 2, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Church of the Nazarene on Olympic Drive. They’ll hand out 150 backpacks filled with school supplies to children in grades K–12, who must be present to receive one. Health and safety resources will also be available for families at the event.
