NPR News Now: July 6, 2025, 8AM EDT

Host: Louise Schiavone
Date: July 6, 2025

1. Devastating Flash Floods in Central Texas

Search and rescue operations are intensifying in central Texas following catastrophic flash flooding that began on Friday. The floods have tragically resulted in over 50 fatalities, with at least 27 individuals still missing. Texas Governor Greg Abbott emphasized the state’s commitment to the rescue efforts:

"Is a 24, 7 operation day and night because we know that we are looking for Texans and Americans and we put them as our top priority. We will find every one of them."
— Gov. Greg Abbott (00:34)

Among the victims are more than two dozen children from a girls' summer camp. The sudden and severe rise of the Guadalupe River took many by surprise. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem addressed the situation, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the weather system responsible:

"At 1:18 p the flood watch was issued. Although it was moderate, it wasn't to the extremes that it was that when the system came over the area that it stalled, it was much more water... dumped unprecedented amounts of rain that caused a flooding event like this."
— Kristi Noem (01:02)

Noem assured that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is prepared to provide timely support to the affected regions.

2. Tropical Storm Chantal's Landfall and Ongoing Risks

Tropical Storm Chantal made landfall early this morning near Litchfield Beach, approximately 75 miles northeast of Charleston, South Carolina. Despite its relatively modest strength, with maximum sustained winds around 50 mph, the storm poses significant risks:

"Chantal made landfall before dawn near Litchfield beach, about 75 miles northeast of Charleston, packing maximum sustained winds of about 50 mph. Winds expected to weaken without the fuel of warm ocean waters."
— Amy Held (01:42)

As Chantal progresses northward, the National Hurricane Center warns of potential heavy rainfall that could lead to flash flooding in South Carolina today and North Carolina tomorrow. Additionally, life-threatening surf and rip currents are anticipated along the coast from Florida to the mid-Atlantic. The timing of the storm disrupts the Fourth of July holiday plans for many, with the American Automobile Association (AAA) noting a record number of Americans traveling for the holiday.

Local officials continue to urge beachgoers to exercise caution amid these hazardous conditions.

3. Surge in Americans Sleeping in Storage Units

A recent survey by storageunits.com reveals a concerning trend: one in five Americans has spent at least one night in a storage unit, primarily due to homelessness. NPR's Jennifer Ludden elaborates on the findings:

"The survey by the comparison search site storageunits.com finds most people stayed just a few nights, but some lived in a unit for weeks or even months. Respondents considered them safe and private, but the storage company notes sleeping in such units is not legal and now some cities have moved to ban it."
— Jennifer Ludden (02:25)

Cities like West Fargo, North Dakota, have enacted bans on sleeping in storage facilities in response to increasing public complaints and safety concerns. Despite these restrictions, advocates argue that some individuals have no affordable housing alternatives. A storage facility worker expressed heartbreak over policies that displace families with young children.

4. Broadway's Flourishing Play Scene Amidst Financial Challenges

Contrary to the high costs and extended timelines typically associated with musicals, Broadway plays have emerged as significant profit generators this season. Jeff London reports on the financial successes within the theater community:

"To be fair, musicals cost a lot more money and take a longer time to turn a profit. But this past season, plays helped make the Broadway box office tally at $1.9 billion, the highest in Broadway history."
— Jeff London (03:15)

Notable productions that have successfully recouped their investments include:

• The Picture of Dorian Gray: An innovative one-person play incorporating extensive video elements.
• Goodnight and Good Luck: Featuring stars like George Clooney and Kieran Culkin.
• Glengarry Glen Ross: Starring Denzel Washington and Jake Gyllenhaal.
• Othello: A new adaptation bringing classic drama to contemporary audiences.
• Omer: A farce by Cole Escola that has captivated theatergoers.

While the profitability of recent musicals remains uncertain, the overall strength of the play sector has significantly contributed to Broadway's historic box office performance.

5. Protective Measures for the Endangered North Atlantic Right Whale

The North Atlantic right whale, with only approximately 370 individuals remaining, faces critical threats from ocean warming, ship strikes, and entanglement in fishing gear. In response, the Canadian government has implemented new protective measures targeting the bustling waters of the Gulf of St. Lawrence:

"Transport Canada has now decreed that all vessels of 43ft or more in length must comply with speed restrictions in designated areas to avoid collisions with the whales."
— Louise Schiavone (04:20)

These regulations aim to reduce the likelihood of fatal encounters between ships and whales, ensuring a safer environment for these majestic creatures. Continued efforts are essential to prevent the extinction of this vanishing species.

Notable Quotes

• "We will find every one of them." — Gov. Greg Abbott (00:34)
• "At 1:18 p the flood watch was issued... dumped unprecedented amounts of rain that caused a flooding event like this." — Kristi Noem (01:02)
• "Transport Canada has now decreed that all vessels of 43ft or more in length must comply with speed restrictions in designated areas to avoid collisions with the whales." — Louise Schiavone (04:20)

This comprehensive overview captures the significant events and discussions presented in the July 6, 2025, episode of NPR News Now, providing listeners with detailed insights into the day's top stories.