WATER

Tropical Storm Debby came with a storm surge warning in Florida's Big Bend region in 2024.

7 Things to Know About Storm Surges

Wind isn’t the only danger a hurricane can bring to coastal communities. Storm surges are often more destructive.

Showers are great for getting a fresh start to your day or winding down for the night.

Should You Shower at Morning or Night? Here’s What the Experts Say

The answer isn‘t as straightforward as you’d think.

May want to think twice about drinking straight from the faucet, too.

Why Does My Tap Water Taste So Funny?

Depending on how weird your home’s tap water tastes, it could be due to the pipes or an old water heater, or be a problem with the water itself.

Take the hassle out of pulling fresh clothes out of your washing machine.

The Right Way to Clean Your Washing Machine

Yes, you should clean your washing machine monthly. Here's how.

Why Did Synchronized Swimming Change Its Name?

Synchronized swimming now goes by the name ‘artistic swimming.’ Here's why.

The pools at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games are built with speed in mind.

How Olympic ‘Fast Pools’ Are Designed for Maximum Performance

Learn the science behind the most advanced swimming pools out there.

You don't have to travel to Manitoba to see these majestic creatures.

Beluga Livestream Captures the Whales' Epic Summer Migration

Beat the heat by tuning into these Arctic sea creatures.

Why Does Flushing the Toilet Change the Shower Temperature?

It's what every shower-taker dreads—but it doesn't have to be this way.

How Do Astronauts Get Drinking Water on the ISS?

Astronauts spending time at the International Space Station stay hydrated with a refreshing, filtered blend of recycled shower water and pee.

An aerial view of the rust-colored Kutuk River in Gates of the Arctic National Park in Alaska. Thawing permafrost is exposing minerals to weathering, increasing the acidity of the water, which releases metals like iron, zinc and copper.

Alaska’s Rivers Are Turning Orange, and Yeah, It’s Probably Climate Change

A new study shows that rusty discoloration in Alaska’s otherwise pristine streams and rivers is likely due to melting permafrost—and that’s a problem for Arctic animals and people.

Wetness is a battle between cohesive and adhesive forces.

Is Water Wet? The Answer is Surprisingly Elusive

It depends on the properties of water, the definition of wetness, and whether you can trust when your senses inform you if something is wet or not.

What’s the Difference Between Seals and Sea Lions?

At first glance, these marine mammals seem virtually identical. But take a closer look and you’ll see that the differences between seals vs. sea lions really do stack up.

Want to Get Water Out of Your iPhone? Apple Says Using Rice Is Not a Good Idea

Rice can't save your iPhone from water damage, but other strategies can.

The Fountain of Youth, painted in 1546 by German artist Lucas Cranach the Elder.

Florida’s “Fountain of Youth” Could Be a Radioactive Water Spigot, Some Locals Claim

Punta Gorda locals have been swearing by the mystical properties of a radioactive water fountain for a century.

Vienna’s Wienflussportal, showing the spot where the Vienna River emerges from its underground course.

10 Rivers Buried Under Cities

Discover the hidden rivers buried beneath cities around the world. From Moscow to Tokyo, explore the history and modern efforts to reopen these forgotten waterways.