NPR News Now: July 5, 2025, 9AM EDT

Live from Washington, NPR brings you the latest headlines covering significant events from natural disasters and international conflicts to unique cultural happenings around the globe.

Massive Flooding in Texas: Ongoing Rescue Efforts

Amid escalating rescue operations along the Guadalupe River in Texas, the National Weather Service has issued warnings of continued excessive rainfall and potential flooding following severe events on Friday. The situation remains dire as search teams intensify efforts to locate at least 20 missing summer campers from Camp Mystic, an all-girls Christian camp submerged by the rising river.

Governor Greg Abbott emphasized the state's commitment to the rescue mission, stating, “We will stop at nothing to ensure that every asset and person and plane and whatever is needed is going to be involved in the process of rescuing every last person” (00:38). To date, over 200 individuals have been rescued, and the death toll has risen to 24 as authorities grapple with sudden and intense downpours that caused the Guadalupe River to surge by as much as 25 feet within just 45 minutes.

NPR’s Dan Katz reports on the unfolding crisis, highlighting the unpreparedness of local officials for such extreme weather conditions.

Tropical Storm Chantal Upgraded to Warning Status

The National Weather Service has elevated Tropical Storm Chantal from a watch to a warning, anticipating heavy rainfall along the Carolina coast over the next few days. Residents in affected areas are urged to stay vigilant and prepare for potential flooding and severe weather conditions.

President Trump’s Domestic Agenda and Trade Policies

President Donald Trump is currently at his golf club in Bedminster, New Jersey, following the signing of a substantial domestic agenda bill into law during a White House Independence Day picnic. Looking ahead, the administration is set to advance its tariff agenda. Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump expressed his preference for direct communication with individual nations regarding trade matters, stating, “And you can't sit down with 200 countries. I think the letters are better. I think a simple tariff is simpler than and better than sitting down and working 15 different things” (01:55).

This strategic move involves sending tariff letters to various countries on Monday, aiming to streamline and manage trade negotiations more effectively on a one-on-one basis.

Impact of New Tax Law on Community Health Clinics

The latest tax and spending legislation poses significant challenges for approximately 1,500 federally funded community health clinics across the United States, which provide affordable care to over 3 million Americans. Yuki Noguchi reports that nearly half of the patients at these centers depend on Medicaid, making the clinics vulnerable to the new law’s cutbacks. Joe Dunn from the National Association of Community Health Centers warns that, “Health centers are largely the only primary care network in the community. And so if there's a closure or reduction in services, then it's going to be felt even more so than in maybe a suburban or urban setting because there's just not as many other options out there” (02:43).

The impending reductions in Medicaid funding threaten to force many clinics to either close their doors or significantly scale back their services, particularly devastating rural areas that rely heavily on these essential health resources.

Ukraine-Russia Conflict Escalates with Strikes and Drone Attacks

In a recent escalation of the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict, Ukraine reported striking a Russian air base today, targeting a depot and several aircraft. In retaliation, Russia launched over 300 drones into Ukrainian territory overnight, intensifying the hostilities between the two nations.

President Trump commented on the resilience of affected communities, stating, “Everything else aside, it's usually the cause. This is an amazing group of people who will rally together for just about any college you could think of” (03:47), reflecting on the broader solidarity and commitment witnessed during these tumultuous times.

World Beard and Mustache Championships Thrill Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh hosted the 2025 World Beard and Mustache Championships, attracting competitors from around the globe to the Steel City. Eliyahu Gussen from WESA highlights the intricate and diverse styles showcased, including goatees, braided beards, and categories such as full beard, natural 10-20 cm, and Alaskan whaler.

Proceeds from the championships benefit local charities, and the event, which occurs biennially, will move to Blackpool, England, in 2027. As Gussen remarks, “Let the championships begin and may the best beards win” (03:57), celebrating both the artistry of facial hair and the community spirit it fosters.

Pope Leo XIV Begins Summer Retreat

Pope Leo XIV embarks on a two-month summer retreat at the papal summer residence south of Rome, marking his first extended break since his historic election in May. Louise Schiavone reports that Castel Gandolfo, the hilltop town hosting the pope, offers serene landscapes and tranquil nights ideal for rest and reflection, providing a much-needed respite for the spiritual leader.

Parisians Rejoice as Seine River Opens for Swimming

For the first time in a century, Parisians have been permitted to swim in the Seine River this morning, thanks to designated swimming areas near iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Île Saint-Louis. This interactive public event follows a significant one and a half billion-dollar cleanup project associated with last year’s Olympics, rejuvenating the river and making it safe for recreational activities.

Residents were welcomed to dive in, celebrating the rejuvenation of one of Paris’s most famous waterways. Louise Schiavone concludes the segment by highlighting the city’s vibrant return to communal outdoor activities (04:09).

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