The American climate

News you can use

Time to act
Alarmed, doubtful, or dismissive? These are a few of the "six Americas" that comprise the public and their views on climate change. There is hope, according to the authors of a report. A full 90 percent of those polled say the United States should act -- even if it has economic costs. From The Center for American Progress

The science of extreme weather and climate
This week's destructive tornadoes have again brought into the limelight the questions about extreme weather and climate. This column takes an extended look at the scientific literature. From Think Progress

Crape myrtles creep north
Gardeners around Pennsylvania are experiencing our warming climate firsthand -- in earlier-blooming perennials, shrubs and fruits. Not a problem, some say? Learn what has also happened to native hardwood trees at Longwood Gardens and the resulting pests, weeds and disease. From PennLive

All streets are not created equal
How many trees are in your neighborhood? These statistics tell us where the worst urban heat islands are -- and why this is part of the larger discussion of inequality and climate change. From The Atlantic Cities

Fun stuff

Sunny options
It's the unofficial start of summer - and outdoors time is high on all our agendas. How about forgoing the fuel to boil your water and charge your cell -- with these solar-powered alternatives. Every little bit adds up. From Good and Treehugger