HOUSTON, Texas – Here’s a look at your top stories to help start your day.
Avalanche Rescue Underway Near Lake Tahoe; 9 Skiers Still Missing
Crews battling a powerful winter storm pushed into remote terrain near Lake Tahoe to rescue six backcountry skiers trapped by a massive avalanche in rugged Castle Peak country. The group was on a multi-day ski trip when the avalanche struck, burying members under heavy snow and ice. Search and rescue teams reached the survivors after hours in dangerous conditions; two were taken to the hospital. Meanwhile, nine others from the party remain unaccounted for amid ongoing storms and unstable avalanche conditions, and authorities are urging caution for backcountry travelers.
18-Year-Old Arrested at U.S. Capitol Armed With Shotgun
U.S. Capitol Police apprehended an 18-year-old man after he exited a vehicle and ran several hundred yards toward the west side of the Capitol armed with a loaded shotgun. Officials say the young man was wearing a tactical vest and gloves and that additional gear, including a Kevlar helmet and gas mask, was found in his SUV. Officers stopped him before he reached the building; no injuries were reported. The motive remains under investigation, and authorities are reviewing surveillance footage. Congress was not in session at the time.
Federal Judge Dismisses “Boneless Wings” Misleading Label Lawsuit
A federal judge in Chicago dismissed a consumer’s lawsuit claiming that Buffalo Wild Wings misled customers by selling boneless chicken labeled as “boneless wings,” even though the product is essentially chicken breast meat more like nuggets. The judge ruled that reasonable consumers are not likely to be confused by the term and that the complaint lacked sufficient factual support. The restaurant can continue using the name on its menu, though the plaintiff may amend the complaint to include additional evidence by March.
Japan Releases 2026 Cherry Blossom Forecast
Japan’s meteorological and forecast services have announced schedules for when cherry trees, known as sakura, are expected to begin flowering across the country. The iconic blooms are anticipated to start around March 21 in central regions such as Tokyo, then spread through eastern and western Japan over the following weeks. These forecasts help travelers and locals plan hanami (flower-viewing) trips, though dates could shift slightly due to weather changes.