Deep-Sea Mining Fight: Conservation and community groups sued the U.S. government to stop the Trump administration’s plan to move forward with deep-sea mining lease sales off the Northern Mariana Islands and Guam, arguing the National Marine Fisheries Service rubberstamped the decision without properly assessing impacts on threatened species and critical habitat. Local Governance & Health: American Samoa’s Environmental Health Services shut down two businesses and a government building for sanitation and public health violations, including the Port Administration Airport Hangar Facility (VIP Lounge excluded), the FM Mart meat room and ice-making operations, and Matai’s Corporation. Public Input Push: U.S. lawmakers, including American Samoa’s Delegate Aumua Amata, asked for a 90-day public comment period on proposed deep-sea mining leases around the region, warning the first-of-its-kind leasing could set a precedent. Climate Watch: The National Weather Service says a strong to very strong El Niño is likely to strengthen through late 2026 into early 2027, raising risks for heat, water shortages, crop and fishery stress, tropical cyclones, coral bleaching, and lower sea levels—urging residents to prepare now. Fisheries Science: The Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council’s scientific panel meets Sept. 8–10 in Honolulu to review American Samoa large-vessel rules around Rose Atoll and set science-based bottomfish catch guidance for 2027–2030. Regional Health Alert: Hawaiʻi reported dengue virus detected in wastewater from Hilo, with no active cases currently tracked, but reminding Pacific communities that dengue can spread via mosquitoes and travel-linked infections.