Sonic boom in SC: USGS says a loud blast felt across the Midlands Thursday wasn’t an earthquake, with the origin near St. Andrews/Columbia around 5:24 p.m. and no reported damage or injuries. Drought relief in the region: A long-awaited rain pattern is easing conditions in parts of the Southeast; South Carolina’s extreme drought share reportedly dropped sharply, though water stress still lingers. Sea turtle help from students: Sullivan’s Island kids are protecting the first 2026 sea turtle nest by clearing hazards, filling holes, and reminding beachgoers to keep distance. Water safety push for summer: SC DPH is urging safer swimming habits as drowning risk rises, including supervision, barriers for pools, and basic hazard checks. Dam safety reminder: SCDES marks National Dam Safety Awareness Day by encouraging dam owners and residents to review preparedness and emergency planning. Coastal economy & climate watch: Southern Living ranked 10 SC beach towns among the South’s best, while hurricane experts say early Gulf waters—not distant waves—are key to monitor. Wildlife incident link: SLED is seeking info on a December shooting involving an SC DNR officer, saying it connects to Alabama. PFAS legal fight: Floyd County, Georgia approved counsel to pursue claims over forever-chemical contamination tied to landfills and public water. Landfill methane to energy: An Upstate company turning landfill methane into natural gas may qualify for new tax breaks under a recently signed law.