Rescuers are racing against time to reach survivors and supply urgent aid after a devastating cyclone Chido ripped through the French Indian ocean territory of Mayotte, destroying homes across the islands, with hundreds feared dead.

Devastation, And Destruction After Cyclone Chido

Rescuers are racing against time to reach survivors and supply urgent aid after a devastating cyclone Chido ripped through the French Indian ocean territory of Mayotte, destroying homes across the islands, with hundreds feared dead.





<p>On the morning of 26 December 2004, exactly 19 years ago, a mega earthquake hit northern Sumatra in Indonesia, triggering one of the largest tsunamis in the world. The epicentre of the earthquake was the off-west coast of northern Sumatra islands and the tsunami also wreaked havoc in India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The megathrust earthquake of 9.1-9.3 magnitude on the Richter scale prompted a massive tsunami near the Indian Ocean. The waves, as high as 30 m (100 ft), devastated inhabitants along the coasts of the Indian Ocean, killing an estimated 227,898 people in 14 countries and displacing thousands. It was reportedly the most powerful earthquake ever recorded in Asia and also the most powerful earthquake in the 21st century.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beijing-warns-rocket-remnants-to-hit-south-china-sea-amid-ongoing-dispute-with-philippines-673628">Beijing warns rocket remnants to hit South China Sea amid ongoing dispute with Philippines</a></p>

<p>It has been 19 years since one of the mightiest natural disasters the world has ever seen, here’s how everything unfolded that day and the aftermath:</p>

<h2><strong>26 December 2004, Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami: How everything unfolded</strong></h2>

<p>In 2004, on the morning of Boxing Day (a day after Christmas) on December 26 at around 7:58 am local time, a major earthquake with a 9.1-9.3 magnitude struck the west coast of northern Sumatra in Indonesia.</p>

<p>As per the scientific community, the earthquake was caused by a rupture along the fault between the Burma Plate and the Indian Plate. The earthquake was so intense that it reached a Mercalli intensity of up to IX in some areas. It had the longest duration of faulting ever observed- between eight to ten minutes.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Soon the earthquake triggered one of the biggest tsunamis, causing direct disruptions to people in Sri Lanka, India and Thailand (apart from Indonesia). Banda Aceh in Indonesia reported the largest number of deaths. Splay faults, or secondary "pop-up faults", caused long, narrow parts of the seafloor to pop up in seconds. This quickly elevated the height and increased the speed of waves, destroying the nearby Indonesian town of Lhoknga.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">19 Years Ago on this day the Tsunami 🌊 hit Sri Lanka 🇱🇰. Over 35,000 lifes lost.<br />
<br />
Let us remember all the 2004 Tsunami victims🙏<br />
<br />
<a href="https://t.co/Y1p5rq97o3">pic.twitter.com/Y1p5rq97o3</a></p>
— Erik Solheim (@ErikSolheim) <a href="https://twitter.com/ErikSolheim/status/1739477884371365977?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Many reports even say that the earthquake was so mighty that it caused the planet to vibrate as much as 10 m&nbsp;(0.4 in) and also remotely triggered earthquakes as far away as Alaska.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In India, as per official estimates, more than 10,700 people died, 5,640 went missing and another thousand became homeless due to the tsunami.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-fog-30-flights-delayed-due-to-poor-visibility-as-fog-engulfs-city-5-others-diverted-to-jaipur-673626">Delhi fog: 30 flights delayed due to poor visibility as fog engulfs city; 5 others diverted to Jaipur</a></p>

<p>The Great Nicobar and Car Nicobar Islands were the worst hit among all the islands because of their proximity to the quake and relatively flat terrain. Aftershocks rocked the area, and one-fifth of the population of the Nicobar Islands was reported dead, injured or missing.</p>

<p>The damage done to the number of people and countries prompted a worldwide humanitarian response, with donations worth more than $14 billion in that year. Since then, India and other countries along the Indian Ocean belt worked on advancing their security systems to respond swiftly to any such warning in future.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


On the morning of 26 December 2004, exactly 19 years ago, a mega earthquake hit northern Sumatra in Indonesia, triggering one of the largest tsunamis in the world.

On the morning of 26 December 2004, exactly 19 years ago, a mega earthquake hit northern Sumatra in Indonesia, triggering one of the largest tsunamis in the world. The epicentre of the earthquake was the off-west coast of northern Sumatra islands and the tsunami also wreaked havoc in India. The megathrust earthquake of 9.1-9.3 magnitude on the Richter scale prompted a massive tsunami near the Indian Ocean. The waves, as high as 30 m (100 ft), devastated inhabitants along the coasts of the Indian Ocean, killing an estimated 227,898 people in 14 countries and displacing thousands. It was reportedly the most powerful earthquake ever recorded in Asia and also the most powerful earthquake in the 21st century. Also Read | Beijing warns rocket remnants to hit South China Sea amid ongoing dispute with Philippines It has been 19 years since one of the mightiest natural disasters the world has ever seen, here’s how everything unfolded that day and the aftermath: 26 December 2004, Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami: How everything unfolded In 2004, on the morning of Boxing Day (a day after Christmas) on December 26 at around 7:58 am local time, a major earthquake with a 9.1-9.3 magnitude struck the west coast of northern Sumatra in Indonesia. As per the scientific community, the earthquake was caused by a rupture along the fault between the Burma Plate and the Indian Plate. The earthquake was so intense that it reached a Mercalli intensity of up to IX in some areas. It had the longest duration of faulting ever observed- between eight to ten minutes. Also Read | ISRO-made software 'FEAST' available for Indian academia, industries Soon the earthquake triggered one of the biggest tsunamis, causing direct disruptions to people in Sri Lanka, India and Thailand (apart from Indonesia). Banda Aceh in Indonesia reported the largest number of deaths. Splay faults, or secondary "pop-up faults", caused long, narrow parts of the seafloor to pop up in seconds. This quickly elevated the height and increased the speed of waves, destroying the nearby Indonesian town of Lhoknga. 19 Years Ago on this day the Tsunami 🌊 hit Sri Lanka 🇱🇰. Over 35,000 lifes lost. Let us remember all the 2004 Tsunami victims🙏 pic.twitter.com/Y1p5rq97o3 — Erik Solheim (@ErikSolheim) December 26, 2023 × Many reports even say that the earthquake was so mighty that it caused the planet to vibrate as much as 10 m (0.4 in) and also remotely triggered earthquakes as far away as Alaska. In India, as per official estimates, more than 10,700 people died, 5,640 went missing and another thousand became homeless due to the tsunami. Also Read | Delhi fog: 30 flights delayed due to poor visibility as fog engulfs city; 5 others diverted to Jaipur The Great Nicobar and Car Nicobar Islands were the worst hit among all the islands because of their proximity to the quake and relatively flat terrain. Aftershocks rocked the area, and one-fifth of the population of the Nicobar Islands was reported dead, injured or missing. The damage done to the number of people and countries prompted a worldwide humanitarian response, with donations worth more than $14 billion in that year. Since then, India and other countries along the Indian Ocean belt worked on advancing their security systems to respond swiftly to any such warning in future. (With inputs from agencies)

2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami: 19 years since devastating Boxing Day tsunami

<p>The "Devil Comet" which is hurtling towards Earth and has exploded on its way from the sun has created a lot of buzz about being roughly twice the size of Mount Everest and having cloud horns, which make it appear menacing.<br />
<br />
However, researchers who have been studying such phenomenon, while speaking to Insider, said that although the comet is large and unusual, it does not mean that it poses any threat to planet Earth.<br />
<br />
The comet, which is called “12P/Pons-Brooks” by scientists made an appearance in the skies of the Earth last time more than 70 years ago. Judging by the comet's brightness, astronomers estimated that the comet's solid part or its nucleus is around 12.4 miles across, which is approximately double the size of Mount Everest.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/enormous-volcanic-comet-races-towards-earth-with-regrown-horns-647885">Giant cryovolcanic comet with 'horns' is racing towards Earth after exploding in space</a></p>

<p>Generally, comets are between 0.6 and 1.8 miles wide, as per Teddy Kareta, who is a postdoctoral researcher at Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, Arizona. "We know it's big. We know it's an outlier. We know it's rare," Kareta said while speaking to Insider.</p>

<h2><strong>An extinction-level event threat?</strong></h2>

<p>He added that it is most likely to be visible to the naked eye next spring, however, it is not barrelling towards our planet with a scope of carrying out an extinction-level event.<br />
<br />
Kareta clarified that the comet will still remain around one-and-half astronomical units away from Earth. "It might be bright enough that you can see with your naked eye or with binoculars, but that's not because it's going to be super close. It's because it's just generally very bright,” said Kareta.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Cosmic journey: Space balloons &amp; space station visit part of the tour</strong></p>

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<p>The “horns” of the comet have been formed by tails of gas and dust released in an odd series of explosive outbursts which scientists have still not been able to understand. Two such outbursts were seen this year – the first occurred in July and the other earlier this month.<br />
<br />
An "outburst" as per Kareta, is "where comets suddenly get much more active," throwing off tons of gas and dust in a short period of time. “When this happens the comet brightens really rapidly and then sort of fades back to the brightness it had before," he said.<br />
<br />
"And in Pons-Brooks, these are really, really bright — really, really large outbursts. And this is what makes this comet so interesting to scientists,” he added.<br />
<br />
The outbursts have been particularly interesting because of their frequency and where they took place. As per one theory, the comet contains forms of ice which after getting exposed to the sun's heat for the time leads to volatile explosions.<br />
<br />
However, those explosions have typically been seen closer to the sun and do not occur often. As per Kareta, "It might happen twice in five years."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The "Devil Comet" which is hurtling towards Earth and has exploded on its way from the sun has created a lot of buzz about being roughly twice the size of Mount Everest and having cloud horns, which make it appear menacing.

The "Devil Comet" which is hurtling towards Earth and has exploded on its way from the sun has created a lot of buzz about being roughly twice the size of Mount Everest and having cloud horns, which make it appear menacing. However, researchers who have been studying such phenomenon, while speaking to Insider, said that although the comet is large and unusual, it does not mean that it poses any threat to planet Earth. The comet, which is called “12P/Pons-Brooks” by scientists made an appearance in the skies of the Earth last time more than 70 years ago. Judging by the comet's brightness, astronomers estimated that the comet's solid part or its nucleus is around 12.4 miles across, which is approximately double the size of Mount Everest. ALSO READ | Giant cryovolcanic comet with 'horns' is racing towards Earth after exploding in space Generally, comets are between 0.6 and 1.8 miles wide, as per Teddy Kareta, who is a postdoctoral researcher at Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, Arizona. "We know it's big. We know it's an outlier. We know it's rare," Kareta said while speaking to Insider. An extinction-level event threat? He added that it is most likely to be visible to the naked eye next spring, however, it is not barrelling towards our planet with a scope of carrying out an extinction-level event. Kareta clarified that the comet will still remain around one-and-half astronomical units away from Earth. "It might be bright enough that you can see with your naked eye or with binoculars, but that's not because it's going to be super close. It's because it's just generally very bright,” said Kareta. Watch | Cosmic journey: Space balloons & space station visit part of the tour The “horns” of the comet have been formed by tails of gas and dust released in an odd series of explosive outbursts which scientists have still not been able to understand. Two such outbursts were seen this year – the first occurred in July and the other earlier this month. An "outburst" as per Kareta, is "where comets suddenly get much more active," throwing off tons of gas and dust in a short period of time. “When this happens the comet brightens really rapidly and then sort of fades back to the brightness it had before," he said. "And in Pons-Brooks, these are really, really bright — really, really large outbursts. And this is what makes this comet so interesting to scientists,” he added. The outbursts have been particularly interesting because of their frequency and where they took place. As per one theory, the comet contains forms of ice which after getting exposed to the sun's heat for the time leads to volatile explosions. However, those explosions have typically been seen closer to the sun and do not occur often. As per Kareta, "It might happen twice in five years." (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Will 'Devil Comet' hurtling towards Earth bring devastation? Here's what scientists suggest

<p>Hawaii authorities have adjusted the count of casualties resulting from the devastating Maui wildfire, confirming at least 97 fatalities. This figure is notably lower than the previously estimated 115 deaths by the officials. Moreover, the number of individuals reported as missing has decreased from 41 to 31.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a conversation with CNN, Hawaii Gov. Josh Green said that the death toll registered a decline after genetic testing conducted by anthropologists at the Department of Defense.&nbsp;“They were able to make sure we weren’t tragically co-mingling any of the people we lost. For instance, in a car where there might have been several people - at first it might have been thought there were eight people, instead there were five,” Green told CNN.</p>

<p>It has proven exceptionally challenging&nbsp;to come to the precise death toll stemming from the August 8 wildfire in Lahaina due to the extensive damage caused by the fire and the ensuing chaos as people sought to escape, the officials reportedly said.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-defence-min-shows-bombers-and-missiles-to-kim-during-last-leg-of-trip-636492">Russia’s defence min shows bombers and missiles to Kim during last leg of trip</a></p>

<p>Additionally, the inadvertent collection of animal remains alongside human remains has further complicated the process. Maui Police Chief John Pelletier said that the authorities have positively identified 74 of the deceased.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Unprecedented tragedy</strong></h2>

<p>The Lahaina wildfire stands as the deadliest fire incident in the United States in over a century. The situation was chaotic, with some residents losing their lives in their vehicles, while others resorted to leaping into the ocean or making desperate attempts to flee.</p>

<p>As a result of people huddling together in dire moments, including holding onto pets, some remains arrived commingled,&nbsp;Dr. Jeremy Stuelpnagel, Maui County physician's coroner reportedly said.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>John Byrd, laboratory director with the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, reportedly clarified, "We look at body bags that come in and we do an initial inventory and we assess how many people are represented there,"</p>

<p>He added, "When you do the first tally of all those that have come in, the number tends to be too high because as you begin to do more analysis and examination you realize that actually you've got two bags that were the same person or you have two bags that were the same two people but you didn't realize that."</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Mahsa Amini Death Row: Iran's brutal crackdown continues</strong></p>

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<p>Despite the tragedy, authorities expressed a sense of relief at gaining a clearer understanding of the number of casualties and those still unaccounted for in the wildfire.&nbsp;"The numbers start a little too high on the morgue side and eventually settles until at some point it's going to be a final accurate number. I would say we're not quite there yet," Byrd said.</p>

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Hawaii authorities have adjusted the count of casualties resulting from the devastating Maui wildfire, confirming at least 97 fatalities. This figure is notably lower than the previously estimated 115 deaths by the officials.

Hawaii authorities have adjusted the count of casualties resulting from the devastating Maui wildfire, confirming at least 97 fatalities. This figure is notably lower than the previously estimated 115 deaths by the officials. Moreover, the number of individuals reported as missing has decreased from 41 to 31. In a conversation with CNN, Hawaii Gov. Josh Green said that the death toll registered a decline after genetic testing conducted by anthropologists at the Department of Defense. “They were able to make sure we weren’t tragically co-mingling any of the people we lost. For instance, in a car where there might have been several people - at first it might have been thought there were eight people, instead there were five,” Green told CNN. It has proven exceptionally challenging to come to the precise death toll stemming from the August 8 wildfire in Lahaina due to the extensive damage caused by the fire and the ensuing chaos as people sought to escape, the officials reportedly said. Also Read | Russia’s defence min shows bombers and missiles to Kim during last leg of trip Additionally, the inadvertent collection of animal remains alongside human remains has further complicated the process. Maui Police Chief John Pelletier said that the authorities have positively identified 74 of the deceased. Unprecedented tragedy The Lahaina wildfire stands as the deadliest fire incident in the United States in over a century. The situation was chaotic, with some residents losing their lives in their vehicles, while others resorted to leaping into the ocean or making desperate attempts to flee. As a result of people huddling together in dire moments, including holding onto pets, some remains arrived commingled, Dr. Jeremy Stuelpnagel, Maui County physician's coroner reportedly said. Also Read | Australia: Sydney teenager in coma after allegedly being dragged 2 km by car John Byrd, laboratory director with the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, reportedly clarified, "We look at body bags that come in and we do an initial inventory and we assess how many people are represented there," He added, "When you do the first tally of all those that have come in, the number tends to be too high because as you begin to do more analysis and examination you realize that actually you've got two bags that were the same person or you have two bags that were the same two people but you didn't realize that." Watch | Mahsa Amini Death Row: Iran's brutal crackdown continues × Despite the tragedy, authorities expressed a sense of relief at gaining a clearer understanding of the number of casualties and those still unaccounted for in the wildfire. "The numbers start a little too high on the morgue side and eventually settles until at some point it's going to be a final accurate number. I would say we're not quite there yet," Byrd said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Maui wildfire death toll revised downward to 97 after DNA testing, 31 still missing

Before-and-after aerial photographs of Hawaii unveil the harrowing aftermath of a devastating wildfire. Maui, which was once characterised by lush greenery and beauty, now lies in ruins, reduced to ashes by the fierce flames.

Before and After pics | Destructive wildfires turn Hawaii into ruins, aerial images tell the tale

The cyclone is causing mayhem for Rohingya refugees living in low-lying areas disrupting their lives. Authorities in Bangladesh are in emergency mode.

In Pics | Cyclone Mocha causes devastation in Myanmar, Bangladesh

Heavy rains continue to barter Malaysia as day-to-day life continues to be paralyzed due to the incessant rainfall. The country has been plagued with continuous rain since November last year in which four people have lost their lives.

Malaysia battered by heavy rains, 40,000 residents flee their homes

In Pics | Floods and landslides batter Brazil, killing 36 people

<p>Joshimath, a spiritual town&nbsp;in Uttarakhand where Adi Shankaracharya, a religious reformer, acquired enlightenment in the eighth century, has become a matter of countrywide concern.&nbsp;Nearly 66 families have been forced to vacate&nbsp;their homes, the largest ropeway in Asia has been closed to tourists, two hotels have shut their doors for an indefinite period, and locals have taken to the streets. The events in Joshimath come as a second blow to the hill state, the first being the&nbsp;unrest in Haldwani over eviction notices. Many have drawn comparisons between the agitation in Haldwani and the protests in Delhi's Shaheen Bagh over the Citizenship Amendment Act 2020.</p>

<p>On Thursday (5 January),&nbsp;Joshimath villagers blocked the Badrinath national highway amid a new panic as water began to leak from the "Joshimath rock." The residents were already battling menacing cracks and crevices that started to form in their homes, on the roadways, and in their fields.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They heard noises coming from below the ground on Monday (2 January)&nbsp;around midnight. On Wednesday (4 January), many terrified families fled to safer areas, and more are waiting in line. The JP residential estate in Marwari was nearby when an aquifer also burst, adding to the commotion.</p>

<p>On Thursday (5 January), the terrified villagers, who have been pleading with the authorities to halt all construction activities in their "sinking" town, gathered on the streets holding torches. The town is "placed on an old landslide," making it vulnerable, and there is concern that the hillside on which it is built would collapse.</p>

<p>The Uttarakhand government assembled a team of scientists on Thursday (5 January) to determine the cause of the sinking of the land and the cracks in the buildings in an attempt to reassure the locals. The crew will visit the location and look into the cause.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-takes-g20-presidency-at-critical-time-will-provide-solutions-says-chief-coordinator-harsh-shringla-549951">"India takes G20 Presidency at critical time, will provide solutions," says Chief Coordinator Harsh Shringla</a></p>

<p>By the evening of the&nbsp;same day, the Tapovan-Vishnugad hydro project and the current building of the Helang bypass, which are thought to be two of the primary causes of the sinking, were to be immediately suspended by the orders of the Chamoli district magistrate.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Land subsidence and cracks in many houses continue in Uttarakhand's Joshimath. Cracks have appeared on 561 houses in Joshimath, and water seepage continues from underground in JP Colony, Marwadi. <a href="https://t.co/vo7IxIh1Xl">pic.twitter.com/vo7IxIh1Xl</a></p>
— ANI UP/Uttarakhand (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1610847313613959170?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>News agency&nbsp;<em>ANI</em>&nbsp;stated that cracks have reportedly been observed in as many as 561 houses. “Now the process of increasing cracks in Singhdhar and Marwadi has started. Badrinath NH near Singhdhar Jain locality and JP Company Gate in Marwadi, near the forest department check post, is continuously cracking. This crack is increasing every hour which is worrying," said Joshimath Municipal Chairman Shailendra Pawar who spoke to <em>ANI</em>.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Sinking Joshimath: First signs of the impending doom</strong></h2>

<p>The devastating landslide in Chamoli, which caused many landslides, made the first mention of the cracks in homes in the national media in 2021. To add some support to the homes they are living in, the locals began using wooden poles. Seismic earthquakes continued to be frequent the next year as well.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India's EAM S. Jaishankar takes on Europe's charges, calls out China</strong></p>

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<p>The Uttarakhand government nevertheless established an expert group in 2022. The researchers discovered that a few areas in Joshimath are "sinking" as a result of both man-made and natural factors. The panel discovered that structural faults and damage have been caused by ground subsidence, which is a gradual sinking or sudden settling of the earth's surface caused by the removal or relocation of subsurface components.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">उत्तराखंड: चमोली के जोशीमठ में ज़मीन के धंसने से कई घरों में दरारें आ गई हैं। स्थानीय अपने घरों को खाली कर सुरक्षित स्थानों की तलाश में भटक रहे हैं।<br />
<br />
एक स्थानीय ने बताया, "दरारों से कई लोग घर खाली करके चले गए हैं।सरकार तत्काल समाधान निकाले। हम घरों के बाहर रहने के लिए मजबूर हैं।" <a href="https://t.co/mv19LOmJ0p">pic.twitter.com/mv19LOmJ0p</a></p>
— ANI_HindiNews (@AHindinews) <a href="https://twitter.com/AHindinews/status/1609029309062316034?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>More than 40 families are said to be living in "such risky conditions" in Joshimath's Gandhinagar, Ravigram, and Sunil regions, according to Lalita Devi, a former ward member of Gandhinagar who spoke to ANI.&nbsp; Additionally, 10 families are said to be living in homes that have wooden poles for additional support.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Despite a geological examination of the town, the inhabitants claimed that no assistance has yet been given to the affected families.</p>

<p>Notably, Joshimath in the Chamoli district is significant not just because it's close to the Indo-Tibet border but also because it's the last significant town on the roads to Badrinath, Valley of Flowers, and Hemkund.</p>

<h2><strong>Why is Joshimath prone to landslides?</strong></h2>

<p>The town's location is the main factor contributing to Joshimath's sinking. Experts have long cautioned that the landslide debris on which the city was built has a low bearing capacity and cannot support a rapid rate of construction. The slopes have become extremely unstable in the previous few decades due to increased building, hydropower projects, and the extension of the National Highway.</p>

<p>Researchers from the <em>Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology</em> did a survey in 2022 and found that these gneissic rocks are extremely worn-out , have a poor cohesive value, and have a propensity for high pore pressure when saturated with water, especially during monsoons.</p>

<h2><strong>Joshimath residents blame&nbsp;</strong><b>National Thermal Power Corporation Limited (NTPC)</b></h2>

<p>The government has been charged with "turning a blind eye" to the complaints of the community on the NTPC projects.</p>

<p>Joshimath Bachao Sangharsh Samiti leader Atul Sati stated to The Times of India (TOI) that the NTPC confessed "the tunnel was witnessing water seepage from a punctured aquifer, leading to the drying of water sources in Joshimath" in 2020.</p>

<p>Environmentalist Ravi Chopra told TOI that the punctured aquifer inside the Joshimath mountain area would act like a leaking balloon. “Just as water will leak out of the balloon, causing it to gradually collapse, a similar phenomenon may have occurred inside the mountains in the area. ”</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-top-court-steps-closer-to-decide-legal-status-of-same-sex-couples-550037">India's top court steps closer to decide legal status of same-sex couples</a></p>

<p>NPTC officials refuted these assertions, claiming that Joshimath was not "sinking" as a result of the project and that the tunnel was dry, as quoted by the TOI.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>How can Joshimath be revived?&nbsp;Experts suggest ways</strong></h2>

<p>An expert team led by Dr. Ranjit Sinha, Secretary of Disaster Management, has been dispatched by the government to Joshimath to address the situation, and it will deliver its report following a thorough investigation.</p>

<p>Experts advise that all construction and hydroelectric projects in the area be stopped immediately. The population must first move to a safer area, and only then should the town's planning be revised to account for the new variables and shifting geographical conditions.</p>

<p>One of the most important aspects that need investigation and development is drainage planning. As more and more garbage seeps into the soil, loosening it from the inside, the city is suffering from poor drainage and sewer management. The state administration has urged the irrigation department to check into the situation.</p>

<p>In order to preserve the soil capacity in the area, experts have also recommended replanting, particularly at sensitive sites. To save Joshimath, there needs to be a coordinated effort between the government and civil organisations with the help of military organisations like the Border Roads Organisation (BRO).</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Joshimath, a spiritual town in Uttarakhand where Adi Shankaracharya, a religious reformer, acquired enlightenment in the eighth century, has become a matter of countrywide concern.

Joshimath, a spiritual town in Uttarakhand where Adi Shankaracharya, a religious reformer, acquired enlightenment in the eighth century, has become a matter of countrywide concern. Nearly 66 families have been forced to vacate their homes, the largest ropeway in Asia has been closed to tourists, two hotels have shut their doors for an indefinite period, and locals have taken to the streets. The events in Joshimath come as a second blow to the hill state, the first being the unrest in Haldwani over eviction notices. Many have drawn comparisons between the agitation in Haldwani and the protests in Delhi's Shaheen Bagh over the Citizenship Amendment Act 2020. On Thursday (5 January), Joshimath villagers blocked the Badrinath national highway amid a new panic as water began to leak from the "Joshimath rock." The residents were already battling menacing cracks and crevices that started to form in their homes, on the roadways, and in their fields. They heard noises coming from below the ground on Monday (2 January) around midnight. On Wednesday (4 January), many terrified families fled to safer areas, and more are waiting in line. The JP residential estate in Marwari was nearby when an aquifer also burst, adding to the commotion. On Thursday (5 January), the terrified villagers, who have been pleading with the authorities to halt all construction activities in their "sinking" town, gathered on the streets holding torches. The town is "placed on an old landslide," making it vulnerable, and there is concern that the hillside on which it is built would collapse. The Uttarakhand government assembled a team of scientists on Thursday (5 January) to determine the cause of the sinking of the land and the cracks in the buildings in an attempt to reassure the locals. The crew will visit the location and look into the cause. Also read | "India takes G20 Presidency at critical time, will provide solutions," says Chief Coordinator Harsh Shringla By the evening of the same day, the Tapovan-Vishnugad hydro project and the current building of the Helang bypass, which are thought to be two of the primary causes of the sinking, were to be immediately suspended by the orders of the Chamoli district magistrate. #WATCH | Land subsidence and cracks in many houses continue in Uttarakhand's Joshimath. Cracks have appeared on 561 houses in Joshimath, and water seepage continues from underground in JP Colony, Marwadi. pic.twitter.com/vo7IxIh1Xl — ANI UP/Uttarakhand (@ANINewsUP) January 5, 2023 × News agency ANI stated that cracks have reportedly been observed in as many as 561 houses. “Now the process of increasing cracks in Singhdhar and Marwadi has started. Badrinath NH near Singhdhar Jain locality and JP Company Gate in Marwadi, near the forest department check post, is continuously cracking. This crack is increasing every hour which is worrying," said Joshimath Municipal Chairman Shailendra Pawar who spoke to ANI. Sinking Joshimath: First signs of the impending doom The devastating landslide in Chamoli, which caused many landslides, made the first mention of the cracks in homes in the national media in 2021. To add some support to the homes they are living in, the locals began using wooden poles. Seismic earthquakes continued to be frequent the next year as well. Also watch | India's EAM S. Jaishankar takes on Europe's charges, calls out China The Uttarakhand government nevertheless established an expert group in 2022. The researchers discovered that a few areas in Joshimath are "sinking" as a result of both man-made and natural factors. The panel discovered that structural faults and damage have been caused by ground subsidence, which is a gradual sinking or sudden settling of the earth's surface caused by the removal or relocation of subsurface components. उत्तराखंड: चमोली के जोशीमठ में ज़मीन के धंसने से कई घरों में दरारें आ गई हैं। स्थानीय अपने घरों को खाली कर सुरक्षित स्थानों की तलाश में भटक रहे हैं। एक स्थानीय ने बताया, "दरारों से कई लोग घर खाली करके चले गए हैं।सरकार तत्काल समाधान निकाले। हम घरों के बाहर रहने के लिए मजबूर हैं।" pic.twitter.com/mv19LOmJ0p — ANI_HindiNews (@AHindinews) December 31, 2022 × More than 40 families are said to be living in "such risky conditions" in Joshimath's Gandhinagar, Ravigram, and Sunil regions, according to Lalita Devi, a former ward member of Gandhinagar who spoke to ANI. Additionally, 10 families are said to be living in homes that have wooden poles for additional support. Despite a geological examination of the town, the inhabitants claimed that no assistance has yet been given to the affected families. Notably, Joshimath in the Chamoli district is significant not just because it's close to the Indo-Tibet border but also because it's the last significant town on the roads to Badrinath, Valley of Flowers, and Hemkund. Why is Joshimath prone to landslides? The town's location is the main factor contributing to Joshimath's sinking. Experts have long cautioned that the landslide debris on which the city was built has a low bearing capacity and cannot support a rapid rate of construction. The slopes have become extremely unstable in the previous few decades due to increased building, hydropower projects, and the extension of the National Highway. Researchers from the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology did a survey in 2022 and found that these gneissic rocks are extremely worn-out , have a poor cohesive value, and have a propensity for high pore pressure when saturated with water, especially during monsoons. Joshimath residents blame National Thermal Power Corporation Limited (NTPC) The government has been charged with "turning a blind eye" to the complaints of the community on the NTPC projects. Joshimath Bachao Sangharsh Samiti leader Atul Sati stated to The Times of India (TOI) that the NTPC confessed "the tunnel was witnessing water seepage from a punctured aquifer, leading to the drying of water sources in Joshimath" in 2020. Environmentalist Ravi Chopra told TOI that the punctured aquifer inside the Joshimath mountain area would act like a leaking balloon. “Just as water will leak out of the balloon, causing it to gradually collapse, a similar phenomenon may have occurred inside the mountains in the area. ” Also read | India's top court steps closer to decide legal status of same-sex couples NPTC officials refuted these assertions, claiming that Joshimath was not "sinking" as a result of the project and that the tunnel was dry, as quoted by the TOI. How can Joshimath be revived? Experts suggest ways An expert team led by Dr. Ranjit Sinha, Secretary of Disaster Management, has been dispatched by the government to Joshimath to address the situation, and it will deliver its report following a thorough investigation. Experts advise that all construction and hydroelectric projects in the area be stopped immediately. The population must first move to a safer area, and only then should the town's planning be revised to account for the new variables and shifting geographical conditions. One of the most important aspects that need investigation and development is drainage planning. As more and more garbage seeps into the soil, loosening it from the inside, the city is suffering from poor drainage and sewer management. The state administration has urged the irrigation department to check into the situation. In order to preserve the soil capacity in the area, experts have also recommended replanting, particularly at sensitive sites. To save Joshimath, there needs to be a coordinated effort between the government and civil organisations with the help of military organisations like the Border Roads Organisation (BRO). (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Joshimath sinking: Why is this town in India's Uttarakhand falling apart?

<p>Hurricane Julia made landfall on Nicaragua's Caribbean coast early on Sunday morning, bringing with it the risk of mudslides and flash flooding throughout Central America, according to the US National Hurricane Center.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At 0715 GMT, the storm made landfall close to the Laguna de Perlas region with maximum sustained winds estimated at 140 kph, according to the weather service.</p>

<p>Fishermen were busy securing their boats in Bluefields hours earlier as others rushed to buy groceries and withdraw cash from ATMs, one of the major coastal towns anticipated to be buffeted by the storm.</p>

<p>By midnight, AFP photographers in the city reported feeling hurricane-force gusts and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-joe-biden-visits-hurricane-hit-florida-to-review-destruction-522877">torrential rains</a>, while state media reported detached roofs, downed trees, and power outages.</p>

<p>According to a representative of the environment ministry, Julia travelled over three Colombian islands before making landfall in Nicaragua, unleashing rain and lightning in the nation's north.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serbian-scientists-name-beetle-after-novak-djokovic-523788">Serbian scientists name beetle after country's tennis star Novak Djokovic</a></p>

<p>President of Colombia Gustavo Petro declared the region to be on "highest alert" and instructed hotels to make space available for use as shelters, despite the fact that officials on the islands, which are home to roughly 48,000 people, reported no substantial damage or injuries.</p>

<p>According to the five-stage Saffir-Simpson hurricane wind scale, Julia is categorised as a Category One storm, which is the weakest category.</p>

<p>According to the NHC, it is anticipated to cross Nicaragua on Sunday before continuing to move close to or along the Pacific coasts of Honduras, El Salvador, and Guatemala through Monday.</p>

<p>Around 6,000 people have been evacuated from Nicaragua, including residents of Laguna de Perlas, the Miskito keys off the coast, and other areas.</p>

<p>Javier Duarte, a cabinetmaker in Bluefields, told AFP that "we have to prepare with food, plastic, and a little bit of everything, since we don't know what's going to happen."</p>

<p>The municipality, which has about 60,000 residents, is full of flimsy buildings.</p>

<p>The NHC warned that "across Central America and Southern Mexico until early next week," torrential rain could cause "life-threatening flash floods and mudslides."</p>

<p>As of 7:15 GMT on Sunday, the storm's centre was roughly 50 kilometres northeast of Bluefields, according to the NHC.</p>

<p>Less than two weeks have passed since the horrific Hurricane Ian, one of the deadliest US storms ever, made landfall in the southwest of the US state of Florida.</p>

<p>On the west coast of the Sunshine State, the Category 4 storm completely devastated entire neighbourhoods. According to American media, at than 100 individuals died.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Hurricane Julia made landfall on Nicaragua's Caribbean coast early on Sunday morning, bringing with it the risk of mudslides and flash flooding throughout Central America, according to the US National Hurricane Center.

Hurricane Julia made landfall on Nicaragua's Caribbean coast early on Sunday morning, bringing with it the risk of mudslides and flash flooding throughout Central America, according to the US National Hurricane Center. At 0715 GMT, the storm made landfall close to the Laguna de Perlas region with maximum sustained winds estimated at 140 kph, according to the weather service. Fishermen were busy securing their boats in Bluefields hours earlier as others rushed to buy groceries and withdraw cash from ATMs, one of the major coastal towns anticipated to be buffeted by the storm. By midnight, AFP photographers in the city reported feeling hurricane-force gusts and torrential rains, while state media reported detached roofs, downed trees, and power outages. According to a representative of the environment ministry, Julia travelled over three Colombian islands before making landfall in Nicaragua, unleashing rain and lightning in the nation's north. Also read | Serbian scientists name beetle after country's tennis star Novak Djokovic President of Colombia Gustavo Petro declared the region to be on "highest alert" and instructed hotels to make space available for use as shelters, despite the fact that officials on the islands, which are home to roughly 48,000 people, reported no substantial damage or injuries. According to the five-stage Saffir-Simpson hurricane wind scale, Julia is categorised as a Category One storm, which is the weakest category. According to the NHC, it is anticipated to cross Nicaragua on Sunday before continuing to move close to or along the Pacific coasts of Honduras, El Salvador, and Guatemala through Monday. Around 6,000 people have been evacuated from Nicaragua, including residents of Laguna de Perlas, the Miskito keys off the coast, and other areas. Javier Duarte, a cabinetmaker in Bluefields, told AFP that "we have to prepare with food, plastic, and a little bit of everything, since we don't know what's going to happen." The municipality, which has about 60,000 residents, is full of flimsy buildings. The NHC warned that "across Central America and Southern Mexico until early next week," torrential rain could cause "life-threatening flash floods and mudslides." As of 7:15 GMT on Sunday, the storm's centre was roughly 50 kilometres northeast of Bluefields, according to the NHC. Less than two weeks have passed since the horrific Hurricane Ian, one of the deadliest US storms ever, made landfall in the southwest of the US state of Florida. On the west coast of the Sunshine State, the Category 4 storm completely devastated entire neighbourhoods. According to American media, at than 100 individuals died. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Hurricane Julia makes landfall on Nicaraguan coast, unleashes devastation

US President Joe Biden flew over the devastation left by Hurricane Ian in Florida on Wednesday that marked a truce with bitter Republican critic and potential 2024 opponent, Governor Ron DeSantis.

US President Joe Biden visits hurricane-hit Florida to review destruction

Satellite images of Ukraine conflict show devastation of the battle

<p>In what has added to the misery of Haiti, a powerful 7.2 magnitude earthquake hit the country hard, triggering large scale destruction. Around 304 people have died and at least 1,800 others have been hurt along with the destruction of hundreds of homes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the Caribbean island nation, people rushed onto streets to seek safety and help others, who are trapped in the rubble of collapsed hotels, homes and other structures.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the US Geological Survey, the epicentre of the quake was about 125 km west of Port-au-Prince. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The earthquake struck the southwestern part of the nation on Saturday. The aftershocks were felt throughout the day and late into the night. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The residents of Haiti are already witnessing a tough time due to coronavirus pandemic, a presidential assassination and deepening poverty.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Many people are now living on streets as several residents have become homeless after the destruction of their homes while others are worrying about their safety in the fractured homes. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Haiti Prime Minister Ariel Henry said he was rushing aid to areas where towns were destroyed and hospitals overwhelmed with incoming patients. He also declared a one-month state of emergency for the whole country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As Tropical Storm Grace may reach Haiti late on Monday or early Tuesday, the situation could worsen by early next week. &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


In what has added to the misery of Haiti, a powerful 7.2 magnitude earthquake hit the country hard, triggering large scale destruction. Around 304 people have died and at least 1,800 others have been hurt along with the destruction of hundreds of homes.

In what has added to the misery of Haiti, a powerful 7.2 magnitude earthquake hit the country hard, triggering large scale destruction. Around 304 people have died and at least 1,800 others have been hurt along with the destruction of hundreds of homes. In the Caribbean island nation, people rushed onto streets to seek safety and help others, who are trapped in the rubble of collapsed hotels, homes and other structures. According to the US Geological Survey, the epicentre of the quake was about 125 km west of Port-au-Prince. The earthquake struck the southwestern part of the nation on Saturday. The aftershocks were felt throughout the day and late into the night. The residents of Haiti are already witnessing a tough time due to coronavirus pandemic, a presidential assassination and deepening poverty. Many people are now living on streets as several residents have become homeless after the destruction of their homes while others are worrying about their safety in the fractured homes. Haiti Prime Minister Ariel Henry said he was rushing aid to areas where towns were destroyed and hospitals overwhelmed with incoming patients. He also declared a one-month state of emergency for the whole country. As Tropical Storm Grace may reach Haiti late on Monday or early Tuesday, the situation could worsen by early next week. (With inputs from agencies)

After turmoil, Haiti gets hit with deadly quake killing over 300 

<p>At least 304 people have died after an earthquake of 7.2 magnitude&nbsp;struck Haiti, sending buildings toppling and causing destruction as rescue workers scrambled for survivors.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The quake, which rattled homes and frightened locals to flee for safety, struck about 100 miles (160 kilometres) west of Port-au-Prince, the country's densely populated capital.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-turmoil-haiti-gets-hit-with-deadly-quake-killing-over-300-405544">After turmoil, Haiti gets hit with deadly quake killing over 300</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The country's civil protection agency said hundreds of people were trapped under rubble and at least 1,800 were injured in the quake that damaged churches, businesses, schools and homes.</p>

<p>Rescuers raced against the clock to find survivors, with the agency tweeting that efforts by "both professional rescuers and members of the public have led to many people being pulled from the rubble," adding that already overburdened hospitals continued to receive injured.</p>

<p>Personnel and medicine were dispatched by Haiti's health ministry to the southwestern peninsula as quickly as possible.</p>

<p>After the first report of 29 fatalities, the death toll climbed steadily throughout the day until it topped 304 hours after the quake.</p>

<p>According to the head of the civil protection agency, Jerry Chandler, hospitals in the worst-hit areas are already struggling to provide emergency care. At least three hospitals were already full.</p>

<p>Several countries quickly pledged support, with the Dominican Republic shipping 10,000 food rations and medical equipment to Haiti, as well as Joe Biden approving "immediate" assistance efforts.</p>

<p>UN chief Antonio Guterres said he was "following the latest unfolding tragedy in Haiti."</p>

<p>"The UN is working to support rescue and relief efforts," he tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I am following the latest unfolding tragedy in Haiti.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
My heart goes out to all affected by the earthquake. My deepest condolences to all who have lost family and friends.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
The <a href="https://twitter.com/UN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UN</a> is working to support rescue and relief efforts.</p>
— António Guterres (@antonioguterres) <a href="https://twitter.com/antonioguterres/status/1426607727606910977?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>According to Cuban television, a medical brigade of 253 Cubans has been deployed to Haiti to treat the injured and to adapt a Port-au-Prince hospital previously used for Covid patients.</p>

<p>In Ecuador, Quito's Fire Department reported that it is preparing to send a team of 34 team members to help with urban search and rescue efforts.</p>

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<p>Mexico, Chile, Argentina, Peru and Venezuela also offered help while Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said Haitians "can count on the support of Spain to come through this terrible event."</p>

<p>As Ariel Henry, the prime minister, surveyed the disaster via helicopter, he declared a month-long state of emergency, urging those in the country to not panic.</p>

<p>Tropical Storm Grace could hinder relief efforts in Haiti as of late Monday, according to the National Weather Service. It's expected to bring heavy rainfall and flash floods.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/haiti-president-jovenel-moise-assassinated-wife-injured-world-leaders-pay-tribute-396479">Haiti President Jovenel Moise assassinated, wife injured; World leaders pay tribute</a></strong></p>

<p>Merely a&nbsp;month after the assassination of President Jovenel Moise on July 7th, this latest earthquake has shaken the nation already plagued with poverty, spiralling gang violence and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a>.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


At least 304 people have died after an earthquake of 7.2 magnitude struck Haiti, sending buildings toppling and causing destruction as rescue workers scrambled for survivors.

At least 304 people have died after an earthquake of 7.2 magnitude struck Haiti, sending buildings toppling and causing destruction as rescue workers scrambled for survivors. The quake, which rattled homes and frightened locals to flee for safety, struck about 100 miles (160 kilometres) west of Port-au-Prince, the country's densely populated capital. Also read | After turmoil, Haiti gets hit with deadly quake killing over 300 The country's civil protection agency said hundreds of people were trapped under rubble and at least 1,800 were injured in the quake that damaged churches, businesses, schools and homes. Rescuers raced against the clock to find survivors, with the agency tweeting that efforts by "both professional rescuers and members of the public have led to many people being pulled from the rubble," adding that already overburdened hospitals continued to receive injured. Personnel and medicine were dispatched by Haiti's health ministry to the southwestern peninsula as quickly as possible. After the first report of 29 fatalities, the death toll climbed steadily throughout the day until it topped 304 hours after the quake. According to the head of the civil protection agency, Jerry Chandler, hospitals in the worst-hit areas are already struggling to provide emergency care. At least three hospitals were already full. Several countries quickly pledged support, with the Dominican Republic shipping 10,000 food rations and medical equipment to Haiti, as well as Joe Biden approving "immediate" assistance efforts. UN chief Antonio Guterres said he was "following the latest unfolding tragedy in Haiti." "The UN is working to support rescue and relief efforts," he tweeted. I am following the latest unfolding tragedy in Haiti. My heart goes out to all affected by the earthquake. My deepest condolences to all who have lost family and friends. The @UN is working to support rescue and relief efforts. — António Guterres (@antonioguterres) August 14, 2021 × According to Cuban television, a medical brigade of 253 Cubans has been deployed to Haiti to treat the injured and to adapt a Port-au-Prince hospital previously used for Covid patients. In Ecuador, Quito's Fire Department reported that it is preparing to send a team of 34 team members to help with urban search and rescue efforts. Mexico, Chile, Argentina, Peru and Venezuela also offered help while Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said Haitians "can count on the support of Spain to come through this terrible event." As Ariel Henry, the prime minister, surveyed the disaster via helicopter, he declared a month-long state of emergency, urging those in the country to not panic. Tropical Storm Grace could hinder relief efforts in Haiti as of late Monday, according to the National Weather Service. It's expected to bring heavy rainfall and flash floods. Also read | Haiti President Jovenel Moise assassinated, wife injured; World leaders pay tribute Merely a month after the assassination of President Jovenel Moise on July 7th, this latest earthquake has shaken the nation already plagued with poverty, spiralling gang violence and COVID-19. (With inputs from agencies)

Haiti Earthquake: Nation searches for survivors, rescue efforts underway as at least 304 killed

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