Latest News

Startup led by Microsoft veterans debuts the first real-time carbon tracker for AI workloads

A new tool from Seattle-based startup Neuralwatt calculates the exact AI carbon footprint tracker metrics for individual prompts in real time to curb data center emissions. Read More

Why Seattle's fire department is using AI in 911 dispatch

Artificial intelligence is listening to emergency callers along with 911 dispatchers in Seattle. The technology is supposed to make emergency calls more efficient, but its effectiveness is unclear and legal experts have concerns.  Seattle Times reporter Daniel Beekman is here to tell us more. Read his reporting here. We can only make Seattle Now because listeners support us. Tap here to make a gift and keep Seattle Now in your feed.  Got questions about local news or story ideas to share? We want to hear from you! Email us at [email protected], leave us a voicemail at (206) 616-6746 or leave us feedback online.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

King County Transportation District approves new sales tax in close vote

The 0.1% tax will fund the county’s Roads and Services Division and sends tens of thousands, if not millions, to local jurisdictions for transportation projects.

Monday Evening Headlines

Seattle hosts its first World Cup match, it's nearly 20 degrees above normal in the Northwest, and Dems push back against dismantling of ocean observatories. It’s our daily roundup of top stories from the KUOW newsroom, with host Paige Browning. We can only make Seattle Now because listeners support us. Tap here to make a gift and keep Seattle Now in your feed.  Got questions about local news or story ideas to share? We want to hear from you! Email us at [email protected], leave us a voicemail at (206) 616-6746 or leave us feedback online.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

UW Allen School honors Ridwell and Focused Space co-founders with 2026 alumni awards

Two University of Washington alumni who built companies out of everyday frustrations — hard-to-recycle household waste and the struggle to focus while working alone — have been recognized with the Allen School's 2026 Alumni Impact Awards. Read More

Five years in, new analysis ties Seattle’s ‘JumpStart’ tax to downtown decline

A new Downtown Seattle Association report says the city's JumpStart payroll tax has helped drive jobs and office value out of downtown over its first five years, pointing to booming Bellevue as the contrast. Supporters, including Mayor Katie Wilson, call the tax a success. Read More

‘Wake Up Everybody!’ This Song Still Resonates In Black Music Month 2026

Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes' 1975 track, 'Wake Up Everybody,' maintains its profound relevance as a call to action for societal improvement and justice. Introduced on Soul Train by lead singer Teddy Pendergrass, the song urged listeners to actively contribute to a better America, a message that continues to inspire awareness and engagement in addressing systemic issues.

Amazon CEO reportedly raised Anthropic Fable concerns prior to U.S. order forcing models offline

Andy Jassy was reportedly among the tech leaders who flagged security risks in Anthropic's newest AI models to senior Trump administration officials — an awkward turn for Amazon, which has invested billions in the AI lab. Read More

Cyclist killed in collision with truck near Fauntleroy Ferry dock

Cyclist killed in collision with truck near Fauntleroy Ferry dock Off patr Mon, 06/15/2026 - 9:18am

COLUMN | Remembering Tyjon Stewart and Tra'Veiah Houfmuse on Graduation Day at Rainier Beach High School

World Cup Kicks Off In Seattle Today: What Residents Need To Know

Seattle is poised to host the FIFA World Cup 2026, bringing global attention and one of history's largest sporting events to the Pacific Northwest, with six matches scheduled at Lumen Field from June 15 to July 6, notably including a Juneteenth fixture.

Hip-Hop Activist: Plastics Are The New Civil Rights Fight

Rev. Lennox Yearwood Jr., a minister, community activist, and Air Force veteran, is featured in the Netflix documentary "The Plastic Detox," advocating for Black communities to reduce exposure to microplastics and petrochemicals. He highlights these substances as critical factors in environmental injustice and widespread health issues.