Data Vis Dispatch, July 7: The Fourth of July, FIFA rankings, and squids

This week, we start the Dispatch focusing on the U.S., as July 4th marked 250 years of independence. While fireworks are a key part of this celebration, they also increase the risk of injury. To mark the milestone, America's changing global power and cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) were examined.

As the 2026 World Cup approaches the quarter-finals, this week's selection of visualizations covers a range of topics, from stoppage time and lightning strikes to World Cup players and FIFA ranking differences.

Staying on the subject of sports, 113 editions of the Tour de France have been visualized as landscapes to mark the start of the race. Additionally, NBA champions have been ranked according to how "ethical" they were.

Turning our attention to the urgent issue of global warming, rising temperatures are becoming increasingly common and are setting new records. This poses a significant heat risk to households lacking air conditioning. Rising sea temperatures and the loss of ice mass are further growing concerns.

On the topic of Venezuela, maps illustrating the destruction and shake intensity caused by the two earthquakes reveal the severity of the tremors.

And finally, we wrap up this Dispatch with some more fascinating topics: the squid fishing boom in the South Atlantic, mapped-out stories of New York City, and the distribution of ancient species.