...Some of the intercepted communications and other intelligence mentions New York, Washington and unspecified cities on the West Coast, said the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity. Authorities also are concerned about dams, bridges, nuclear plants, chemical facilities and other public works....
So basically, it is the same sh**, different threat level rising.
My theory. It's Christmas, there is increased "chatter". Whenever they do this, it seems to result in an attack not happening. So, they keep with it.
Did you ever try to fix something that isn't working and you try some really obscure thing and it works. So, whenever said object breaks you just keep applying technique. That's what this reminds me of.