Supreme Court Declines Missouri Redistricting Appeal, August Sets Heat Record

Why it matters locally: The record-setting global temperatures in August could raise concerns in Louisiana regarding hurricane season intensity and prolonged heat advisories, which can impact public health and energy consumption across the state.

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Supreme Court on Thursday again declined a Republican appeal seeking changes to Missouri's congressional map. The decision leaves in place the current district boundaries, which Republicans had sought to alter in a way that some analysts suggested could have resulted in the party gaining an additional House seat. Simultaneously, climate scientists announced that August registered as the hottest month ever recorded globally. Researchers attribute these temperature increases to ongoing climate patterns and human activity. Across the country, New York City has begun preparations to observe the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks. As part of the preliminary commemorations, thousands of drones illuminated the sky in a display that recreated the silhouettes of the Twin Towers. The city will host a series of events leading up to the official anniversary.