The world of news is complex – and false stories and images are often widely shared on social media. Blasting News’s editorial team spots the most popular hoaxes and misleading information every week to help you discern truth from falsehood. Here is some of the most popular Fake News of the week from around the world. Don't be fooled!
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No, Florida is not running a classified project to modify weather
The Lie: Several posts on X and Instagram are heavily circulating in the last few weeks in Florida evoking the chemtrails conspiracy.
The posts are triggered by Monty Fritts, a Florida state republican representative, who presented a bill to ban “weather manipulation activities.”
The bill highlights that the federal government and other agencies acting on its behalf are planning to conduct experiments by releasing chemicals into the atmosphere. It also emphasizes that the effects of this form of large-scale geoengineering on human health and the environment are not yet fully understood.
Country: U.S.
Languages and outlets: English, social media
Where spotted: Facebook, Instagram, Telegram, X
The Truth:
- Contrails Explained by Atmospheric Science: What are often referred to as "chemtrails" are actually contrails, which are short for "condensation trails." These are formed when the water vapor from aircraft engine exhaust condenses and freezes into ice crystals at high altitudes. The specific atmospheric conditions, such as temperature and humidity, determine whether contrails dissipate quickly or persist and spread out.
- Lack of Scientific Evidence: Extensive scientific research and investigations by reputable organizations, including the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), NASA, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), have found no evidence supporting the existence of chemtrails. These studies consistently demonstrate that contrails are a normal byproduct of aircraft operations and do not contain harmful chemicals deliberately dispersed into the atmosphere.
- Transparency in Aviation Practices: The aviation industry is subject to strict regulations and oversight regarding emissions and environmental impact. Any large-scale chemical dispersal in the atmosphere would require substantial logistical planning, resources, and disclosure, none of which have been substantiated. Additionally, whistleblowers or credible sources within the industry have not provided verifiable proof of chemtrail programs.
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One of the posts (Archived version)
