Wildfire Aftermath: Investigators say the Chelan Hills Fire that erupted July 4 in Douglas County is under criminal investigation after one death and about 10,000 acres burned, with homes destroyed and crews still working as containment sits around 20%. Water & Climate: A draft long-range forecast warns Columbia Basin water supplies will become more vulnerable by the 2040s as warming shifts rain/snow patterns and strains summer and early-fall flows; Ecology is taking public comments through July 31. Air, Climate Policy: Washington’s gas tax is set to rise automatically again under an escalator law, while fuel suppliers also keep buying carbon allowances under the Climate Commitment Act—two built-in costs that hit consumers without new votes. Local Courts & Environment: Gov. Bob Ferguson appointed Kelly Wood to Thurston County Superior Court; Wood has led Ecology litigation work, including Clean Water Act cases. Wildlife Health: WSU researchers confirmed a deadly fox tapeworm in Washington after finding it in a Pullman red fox, raising pet-safety reminders for dogs and wildlife exposure. Business & Environment: Amazon reported a 16% jump in 2025 emissions tied to AI-driven data center growth, even as emissions per shipped product improved. Public Safety: Two western Washington men were indicted in a yearlong pharmacy burglary spree targeting prescription narcotics across multiple counties.