Data Vis Dispatch, April 4

After months of extreme weather, California expects to see a superbloom this spring, with hills covered in blooming flowers. Plus, air quality across the U.S. improved in 2022.

On the other hand, President Biden’s oil policies have been criticized by activists and oil companies alike.

And Europe is split on the type of fuel that powers its cars, with the North and West going electric, while the rest of the region lags behind.

China’s influence is growing — in terms of diplomatic missions, research, and military spending.

Voters and politicians around the U.S. are discussing a proposed anti-trans rights bill, one of many legislative steps to limit the rights of transgender people in the country.

And guns have become the leading cause of death of U.S. children and teens in the past few years.

The finance world is still busy analyzing the recent collapse of banks, including Signature Bank and Credit Suisse.

Belgium aims to get 80% of its working-age population to work.

And Germany is already prepared for next winter, without fears of a gas shortage.

Other notable charts this week covered the popularity of bubble tea and cosmetic surgery, the link between pets and allergies, ocean conservation, and the growing number of rats in New York City.