Central African Republic’s Parliament approved a six-month extension to the state of emergency declared by the government to help combat armed groups it accuses of seeking to mount a coup.&nbsp;

In a tweet, Prime Minister Firmin Ngrebada, thanked Parliament for the vote, saying it would "enable the government to pursue long-term operations to secure the country."&nbsp;

The National Assembly's press service said, the vote was approved by oral consent, which means that the number of MPs in favour or opposed is unknown.&nbsp;

The state of emergency was first declared for two weeks on January 21, after militia groups tried to advance on the capital Bangui ahead of presidential and legislative elections the previous month.&nbsp;

They were held back by government forces, UN peacekeepers and Russian and Rwandan military personnel, sent by their governments under bilateral accords.&nbsp;

The December 27 elections saw President Faustin Archange Touadera re-elected, but in a result that the opposition has dismissed as a sham.&nbsp;

Only around a third of the CAR's electorate was able to cast a vote.&nbsp;

Most of the country is controlled by armed groups that emerged after a civil war erupted in 2013 following the overthrow of Touadera's predecessor, Francois Bozize.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, forces loyal to the Central African Republic government have retaken a second town on an arterial highway from rebels, the prime minister said on Friday.&nbsp;

"The town of Yaloke is liberated..." Prime Minister Firmin Ngrebada said on Facebook. "Congratulations to our defence forces and allies."&nbsp;

By "allies", the CAR government usually refers to Rwandan troops and Russian paramilitaries.&nbsp;

Yaloke is located nearly 200 kilometres (125 miles) northwest of the Bangui and lies on a major highway that links the landlocked nation's capital to neighbouring Cameroon.&nbsp;

Earlier this week, loyalist forces retook the key town of Bossembele, around 150 kilometres (95 miles) northwest of Bangui and also on a vital road artery.&nbsp;

Central African Republic’s Parliament approved a six-month extension to the state of emergency declared by the government to help combat armed groups it accuses of seeking to mount a coup.

Central African Republic’s Parliament approved a six-month extension to the state of emergency declared by the government to help combat armed groups it accuses of seeking to mount a coup. In a tweet, Prime Minister Firmin Ngrebada, thanked Parliament for the vote, saying it would "enable the government to pursue long-term operations to secure the country." The National Assembly's press service said, the vote was approved by oral consent, which means that the number of MPs in favour or opposed is unknown. The state of emergency was first declared for two weeks on January 21, after militia groups tried to advance on the capital Bangui ahead of presidential and legislative elections the previous month. They were held back by government forces, UN peacekeepers and Russian and Rwandan military personnel, sent by their governments under bilateral accords. The December 27 elections saw President Faustin Archange Touadera re-elected, but in a result that the opposition has dismissed as a sham. Only around a third of the CAR's electorate was able to cast a vote. Most of the country is controlled by armed groups that emerged after a civil war erupted in 2013 following the overthrow of Touadera's predecessor, Francois Bozize. Meanwhile, forces loyal to the Central African Republic government have retaken a second town on an arterial highway from rebels, the prime minister said on Friday. "The town of Yaloke is liberated..." Prime Minister Firmin Ngrebada said on Facebook. "Congratulations to our defence forces and allies." By "allies", the CAR government usually refers to Rwandan troops and Russian paramilitaries. Yaloke is located nearly 200 kilometres (125 miles) northwest of the Bangui and lies on a major highway that links the landlocked nation's capital to neighbouring Cameroon. Earlier this week, loyalist forces retook the key town of Bossembele, around 150 kilometres (95 miles) northwest of Bangui and also on a vital road artery.

Central African Republic extends emergency by six months

Malaysia’s king declared a state of emergency across the country to fight a coronavirus surge that is overwhelming hospitals. The emergency will last till August 1 or earlier depending on the gravity of the crisis.

Malaysia's king declares emergency to curb Coronavirus spread

State of emergency declared in Tunisia five years ago has been extended by additional six months. The official statement from Tunisian President Kais Saied made the announcement.

"President Saied decided to extend the state of emergency in the entire territory of the republic for a period of six months, starting from December 26, 2020 until June 23, 2021," an official statement quoted the Tunisian leader as saying on Friday.

The state of emergency was first declared on November 24, 2015, following a deadly bomb attack on a bus of the presidential guards, killing 12 people.

Emergency gives exceptional powers to Tunisia's security forces.

It also allows to "ensure the control of the press" and for strikes and meetings that "create disorder" to be banned.

Few months before emergence was declared in Tunisia in 2015, the country witnessed the deadliest non-state attack in the country`s history when 38 people were killed. A gunman opened fire at tourist resort in Port El Kantaoui.

In March that year, 22 people, mostly tourists, were killed when three terrorists attacked the Bardo National Museum in the Tunisian capital city of Tunis.

All three attacks were claimed by the Islamic State (IS) terror group.

(With agency inputs)

State of emergency declared in Tunisia five years ago has been extended by additional six months. The official statement from Tunisian President Kais Saied made the announcement.

State of emergency declared in Tunisia five years ago has been extended by additional six months. The official statement from Tunisian President Kais Saied made the announcement. "President Saied decided to extend the state of emergency in the entire territory of the republic for a period of six months, starting from December 26, 2020 until June 23, 2021," an official statement quoted the Tunisian leader as saying on Friday. The state of emergency was first declared on November 24, 2015, following a deadly bomb attack on a bus of the presidential guards, killing 12 people. Emergency gives exceptional powers to Tunisia's security forces. It also allows to "ensure the control of the press" and for strikes and meetings that "create disorder" to be banned. Few months before emergence was declared in Tunisia in 2015, the country witnessed the deadliest non-state attack in the country`s history when 38 people were killed. A gunman opened fire at tourist resort in Port El Kantaoui. In March that year, 22 people, mostly tourists, were killed when three terrorists attacked the Bardo National Museum in the Tunisian capital city of Tunis. All three attacks were claimed by the Islamic State (IS) terror group. (With agency inputs)

Tunisia extends emergency by six months

Malaysia's government on Wednesday declared a state of emergency to stop by-elections in two constituencies scheduled for next month, as the country grapples with a spike in coronavirus cases over the past few months.

Malaysia invokes emergency to stop by-elections as COVID-19 cases rise

The UN said Tuesday that $35 billion would be needed for aid in 2021, as the pandemic leaves tens of millions more people in crisis, and with the risk of multiple famines looming.

The world body's annual Global Humanitarian Overview estimated that 235 million people worldwide will need some form of emergency assistance next year — a staggering 40-per cent increase in the past year.

"The increase arises almost entirely because of Covid-19," United Nations emergency relief coordinator Mark Lowcock told reporters.

Next year, one in 33 people worldwide will be in need of aid, the report found, stressing that if all of them lived in one country, it would be the world's fifth-largest nation.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-do-everything-to-discover-origin-of-covid-19-says-who-346541">'Will do everything' to discover origin of COVID-19, says WHO</a>

The annual appeal by UN agencies and other humanitarian organisations usually presents a depressing picture of soaring needs brought on by conflicts, displacement, natural disasters and climate change.

But now, it warned, the coronavirus pandemic, which has killed more than 1.45 million people worldwide, has disproportionately hit those "already living on a knife's edge."&nbsp;

"The picture we are presenting is the bleakest and darkest perspective on humanitarian need in the period ahead that we have ever set out," Lowcock said.&nbsp;

The money requested in the appeal would be enough to help 160 million of the most vulnerable people across 56 countries, the UN said.

'Alarm bells are ringing'

For the first time since the 1990s, extreme poverty is set to rise, life expectancy will fall and the annual death toll from HIV, tuberculosis and malaria could potentially double.

"Possibly the most alarming thing... is the threat of the return of famines, potentially in multiple locations," Lowcock said.

With only one true famine so far in the 21st century —&nbsp;in Somalia nearly a decade ago — mass starvation had appeared to have been "assigned to the dustbin of history," he said.

But now, he warned, "the red lights are flashing and the alarm bells are ringing."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/un-sudan-needs-150-million-to-cope-with-migration-crisis-346469">Also watch|</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/un-sudan-needs-150-million-to-cope-with-migration-crisis-346469/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

By the end of 2020, the number of acutely food-insecure people worldwide could swell to as much as 270 million -- an 82-per cent increase over the pre-Covid-19 number.&nbsp;

Conditions in Yemen, Burkina Faso, South Sudan and northeastern Nigeria indicated they are already on the brink of famine, while a range of other countries and regions, including Afghanistan and the Sahel, were also "potentially very vulnerable", he said.

"If we get through 2021 without major famines, that will be a significant achievement."

Tuesday's appeal shows that war-ravaged Syria and Yemen top the list of the countries most in need of humanitarian assistance.

The UN is seeking close to $6 billion to help millions of Syrians inside and outside the country wracked by a decade of conflict.

And it is asking for nearly $3.5 billion to help nearly 20 million Yemenis caught up in the world's worst humanitarian crisis.

'Darkest hour'

Other major crises requiring substantial funds include the Democratic Republic of Congo, Afghanistan and Ethiopia.

Raising the full $35 billion needed at a time of global economic crisis could meanwhile be a daunting task -- the amount is more than double the $17 billion raised so far this year.

That amount is already a record but still falls far short of the nearly $29 billion asked for during last year's appeal, even before the pandemic reared its head.

"The crisis is far from over. Humanitarian aid budgets face dire shortfalls as the impact of the global pandemic continues to worsen," UN chief Antonio Guterres said in a statement.

"Together we must mobilise resources and stand in solidarity with people in their darkest hour of need."

Lowcock meanwhile insisted that while the total dollar amount asked for seemed high, it was actually tiny compared to the amounts wealthy countries are pumping in to rescue their tanking economies.

"What is at stake is the lives of huge numbers of vulnerable people, and the cost of safeguarding their lives is actually very small in relation to all of the other challenges we face."

The UN said Tuesday that $35 billion would be needed for aid in 2021, as the pandemic leaves tens of millions more people in crisis, and with the risk of multiple famines looming.

The UN said Tuesday that $35 billion would be needed for aid in 2021, as the pandemic leaves tens of millions more people in crisis, and with the risk of multiple famines looming. The world body's annual Global Humanitarian Overview estimated that 235 million people worldwide will need some form of emergency assistance next year — a staggering 40-per cent increase in the past year. "The increase arises almost entirely because of Covid-19," United Nations emergency relief coordinator Mark Lowcock told reporters. Next year, one in 33 people worldwide will be in need of aid, the report found, stressing that if all of them lived in one country, it would be the world's fifth-largest nation. Also read| 'Will do everything' to discover origin of COVID-19, says WHO The annual appeal by UN agencies and other humanitarian organisations usually presents a depressing picture of soaring needs brought on by conflicts, displacement, natural disasters and climate change. But now, it warned, the coronavirus pandemic, which has killed more than 1.45 million people worldwide, has disproportionately hit those "already living on a knife's edge." "The picture we are presenting is the bleakest and darkest perspective on humanitarian need in the period ahead that we have ever set out," Lowcock said. The money requested in the appeal would be enough to help 160 million of the most vulnerable people across 56 countries, the UN said. 'Alarm bells are ringing' For the first time since the 1990s, extreme poverty is set to rise, life expectancy will fall and the annual death toll from HIV, tuberculosis and malaria could potentially double. "Possibly the most alarming thing... is the threat of the return of famines, potentially in multiple locations," Lowcock said. With only one true famine so far in the 21st century — in Somalia nearly a decade ago — mass starvation had appeared to have been "assigned to the dustbin of history," he said. But now, he warned, "the red lights are flashing and the alarm bells are ringing." Also watch| × By the end of 2020, the number of acutely food-insecure people worldwide could swell to as much as 270 million -- an 82-per cent increase over the pre-Covid-19 number. Conditions in Yemen, Burkina Faso, South Sudan and northeastern Nigeria indicated they are already on the brink of famine, while a range of other countries and regions, including Afghanistan and the Sahel, were also "potentially very vulnerable", he said. "If we get through 2021 without major famines, that will be a significant achievement." Tuesday's appeal shows that war-ravaged Syria and Yemen top the list of the countries most in need of humanitarian assistance. The UN is seeking close to $6 billion to help millions of Syrians inside and outside the country wracked by a decade of conflict. And it is asking for nearly $3.5 billion to help nearly 20 million Yemenis caught up in the world's worst humanitarian crisis. 'Darkest hour' Other major crises requiring substantial funds include the Democratic Republic of Congo, Afghanistan and Ethiopia. Raising the full $35 billion needed at a time of global economic crisis could meanwhile be a daunting task -- the amount is more than double the $17 billion raised so far this year. That amount is already a record but still falls far short of the nearly $29 billion asked for during last year's appeal, even before the pandemic reared its head. "The crisis is far from over. Humanitarian aid budgets face dire shortfalls as the impact of the global pandemic continues to worsen," UN chief Antonio Guterres said in a statement. "Together we must mobilise resources and stand in solidarity with people in their darkest hour of need." Lowcock meanwhile insisted that while the total dollar amount asked for seemed high, it was actually tiny compared to the amounts wealthy countries are pumping in to rescue their tanking economies. "What is at stake is the lives of huge numbers of vulnerable people, and the cost of safeguarding their lives is actually very small in relation to all of the other challenges we face."

UN sees emergency aid needs exploding due to pandemic

The Asian country Japan is observing a surge in coronavirus cases, months after the country successfully battled the deadly virus. However, the government has decided to not declare an emergency for now.

A government chief spokesman said the government officials and experts will monitor the infection rates and the capacity of hospitals to cope with the demand.&nbsp;

The residents have been urged to stay home and step out only in case of emergencies, and use face masks when stepping out. The revised guidelines came as the country recorded a record high of&nbsp;2,201 cases on Thursday morning. Following the new record, the country is expected to go an alert level in the next few days. However, the claim has not been substantiated by the Japanese government.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pfizer-biontech-coronavirus-vaccine-deliveries-could-begin-before-christmas-344012">Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine deliveries could begin before Christmas</a>

"We will respond appropriately based on conditions,"&nbsp;Chief Cabinet Secretary Katsunobu Kato told a regular press briefing.

Japan's capital city, Tokyo, has however raised the city to an alert level, and the local government made the announcement at a coronavirus panel meeting of the metropolitan government.

Meanwhile, the&nbsp;Japanese Finance Minister Taro Aso has declined the rumours of a second cash handout for households after the surge in coronavirus cases. When asked in the parliament if he could consider a second handout, he declined saying he was not thinking about it this time.

The authorities are closely monitoring the situation and will be taking a decision based on the updates.

The Asian country Japan is observing a surge in coronavirus cases, months after the country successfully battled the deadly virus. However, the government has decided to not declare an emergency for now.

The Asian country Japan is observing a surge in coronavirus cases, months after the country successfully battled the deadly virus. However, the government has decided to not declare an emergency for now. A government chief spokesman said the government officials and experts will monitor the infection rates and the capacity of hospitals to cope with the demand. The residents have been urged to stay home and step out only in case of emergencies, and use face masks when stepping out. The revised guidelines came as the country recorded a record high of 2,201 cases on Thursday morning. Following the new record, the country is expected to go an alert level in the next few days. However, the claim has not been substantiated by the Japanese government. Also read| Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine deliveries could begin before Christmas "We will respond appropriately based on conditions," Chief Cabinet Secretary Katsunobu Kato told a regular press briefing. Japan's capital city, Tokyo, has however raised the city to an alert level, and the local government made the announcement at a coronavirus panel meeting of the metropolitan government. Meanwhile, the Japanese Finance Minister Taro Aso has declined the rumours of a second cash handout for households after the surge in coronavirus cases. When asked in the parliament if he could consider a second handout, he declined saying he was not thinking about it this time. The authorities are closely monitoring the situation and will be taking a decision based on the updates.

Japan to monitor virus cases, no cash handout for second time: Finance Minister Taro Aso

The governor of California said he was activating an “emergency brake” and applying tougher coronavirus restrictions.

Covid-19 update: Emergency declared in California as cases double in 10 days

Violence escalates in the Tigray region of Ethiopia. PM said Illegal Activities are happening in regional state Tigray.

Ethiopia: Trigary placed under state of emergency | WION News | World News

The largest party in Malaysia's ruling coalition declared its support for Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin, providing some respite for the premier who has faced calls to resign after a failed bid to impose a state of emergency.

Malaysia's PM Muhyiddin gets reprieve from coalition's key ally

Sudan is in a state of emergency after authorities declared the country a disaster zone last week because of heavy flooding that's killed around 100 people and inundated over 100,000 houses since late July.

Sudan declares state of emergency over deadly flood, more than 100 people killed

After days of&nbsp;record-breaking torrential floods, Sudan has declared a three-month state emergency to help the affected families and save the rest from any upcoming dangers.

The floods have taken nearly hundred lives till now, injured 46 people and damaged more than 100,000 houses, especially in&nbsp;North Darfur and Sennar states in Sudan's west and south areas.

"A nationwide three-month state of emergency has been announced as Sudan is considered a natural disaster zone," the interior ministry said on social media.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-to-deploy-two-medical-teams-in-dr-congo-s-sudan-to-help-combat-covid-19-325260">Also read:&nbsp;India to deploy two medical teams in DR Congo, S Sudan to help combat COVID-19</a>

This is being considered as one of the worst natural disasters in the last decade, even though heavy rains usually fall in the country between the month of June and October, which causes severe flooding every year.

"The Blue Nile has reached an all-time high since records began more than a century ago," said the irrigation and water ministry last week.

Last year, monsoon floods affected nearly&nbsp;400,000 people in Sudan, an&nbsp;OCHA spokesperson reported. However, the number is expected to increase this year as nearly&nbsp;380,000 people have been affected by the floods this year, till now. Search and rescue operations are being conducted at the time being, which can increase the number of affected people by the floods.

After days of record-breaking torrential floods, Sudan has declared a three-month state emergency to help the affected families and save the rest from any upcoming dangers.

After days of record-breaking torrential floods, Sudan has declared a three-month state emergency to help the affected families and save the rest from any upcoming dangers. The floods have taken nearly hundred lives till now, injured 46 people and damaged more than 100,000 houses, especially in North Darfur and Sennar states in Sudan's west and south areas. "A nationwide three-month state of emergency has been announced as Sudan is considered a natural disaster zone," the interior ministry said on social media. Also read: India to deploy two medical teams in DR Congo, S Sudan to help combat COVID-19 This is being considered as one of the worst natural disasters in the last decade, even though heavy rains usually fall in the country between the month of June and October, which causes severe flooding every year. "The Blue Nile has reached an all-time high since records began more than a century ago," said the irrigation and water ministry last week. Last year, monsoon floods affected nearly 400,000 people in Sudan, an OCHA spokesperson reported. However, the number is expected to increase this year as nearly 380,000 people have been affected by the floods this year, till now. Search and rescue operations are being conducted at the time being, which can increase the number of affected people by the floods.

Sudan declares 3-month state emergency after 380,000 people affected by floods

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has imposed a rain emergency in the province after heavy rainfall wreaked havoc in Karachi and other parts of the Pakistan.

Karachi Floods: 44 killed in two days, 200 families rescued

The operator of a Japanese bulk carrier which ran aground off Mauritius in the Indian Ocean apologised on Sunday for a major oil spill which officials and environmentalists say is creating an ecological disaster.

The MV Wakashio, operated by Mitsui OSK Lines, struck the reef on Mauritius’ southeast coast on July 25. Fuel started leaking from the cracked vessel on Thursday.

“We apologise profusely and deeply for the great trouble we have caused,” Akihiko Ono, executive vice president of Mitsui OSK Lines said at a new conference in Tokyo.

He added that the company would “do everything in their power to resolve the issue”.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mauritius-declares-environmental-emergency-after-oil-spill-318992">Also read:&nbsp;Mauritius declares environmental emergency after oil spill</a>

At least 1,000 tonnes of oil is estimated to have leaked from the ship onto the waters surrounding Mauritius. Some 500 tonnes of oil have been salvaged from the ship, but there are still 2,500 tonnes remaining on the ship.

Neither Mitsui OSK Lines nor Nagashiki Shipping, the ship’s owner, could confirm the cost of damages from the oil spill.

Japan will dispatch a six-person disaster relief team, on the request of the Mauritius government, to help with removing the spilt oil, according to a statement by the Japanese Foreign Ministry on Sunday.

“We hope that this assistance will contribute to recovery of the environment of Mauritius and prevention of marine pollution,” the statement said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-exploring-avenues-to-help-mauritius-to-deal-with-oil-spill-319115">Also read:&nbsp;India exploring avenues to help Mauritius to deal with oil spill</a>

France was also sending specialist teams and equipment to Mauritius, once a French colony, to help deal with the spill.

Mauritius declared a state of “environmental emergency” on Friday following the accident.

Environmentalists fear the oil spill is the worst ecological disaster the island nation of Mauritius had seen, and would endanger its marine ecology and the pristine waters that attract tourists from around the globe.

Mauritius, famous for its pristine beaches, is popular with tourists who last year contributed 63 billion Mauritius rupees ($1.6 billion) to the economy.

The operator of a Japanese bulk carrier which ran aground off Mauritius in the Indian Ocean apologised on Sunday for a major oil spill which officials and environmentalists say is creating an ecological disaster.

The operator of a Japanese bulk carrier which ran aground off Mauritius in the Indian Ocean apologised on Sunday for a major oil spill which officials and environmentalists say is creating an ecological disaster. The MV Wakashio, operated by Mitsui OSK Lines, struck the reef on Mauritius’ southeast coast on July 25. Fuel started leaking from the cracked vessel on Thursday. “We apologise profusely and deeply for the great trouble we have caused,” Akihiko Ono, executive vice president of Mitsui OSK Lines said at a new conference in Tokyo. He added that the company would “do everything in their power to resolve the issue”. Also read: Mauritius declares environmental emergency after oil spill At least 1,000 tonnes of oil is estimated to have leaked from the ship onto the waters surrounding Mauritius. Some 500 tonnes of oil have been salvaged from the ship, but there are still 2,500 tonnes remaining on the ship. Neither Mitsui OSK Lines nor Nagashiki Shipping, the ship’s owner, could confirm the cost of damages from the oil spill. Japan will dispatch a six-person disaster relief team, on the request of the Mauritius government, to help with removing the spilt oil, according to a statement by the Japanese Foreign Ministry on Sunday. “We hope that this assistance will contribute to recovery of the environment of Mauritius and prevention of marine pollution,” the statement said. Also read: India exploring avenues to help Mauritius to deal with oil spill France was also sending specialist teams and equipment to Mauritius, once a French colony, to help deal with the spill. Mauritius declared a state of “environmental emergency” on Friday following the accident. Environmentalists fear the oil spill is the worst ecological disaster the island nation of Mauritius had seen, and would endanger its marine ecology and the pristine waters that attract tourists from around the globe. Mauritius, famous for its pristine beaches, is popular with tourists who last year contributed 63 billion Mauritius rupees ($1.6 billion) to the economy.

Grounded Mauritius ship operator apologises for oil leak

The Indian Ocean island of Mauritius declared a “state of environmental emergency” late Friday after a ship that ran aground offshore days ago began spilling tonnes of fuel.

Satellite images showed a dark slick spreading in the waters near environmental areas that the government called “very sensitive.”

Mauritius has said the Japanese-owned ship, the MV Wakashio, was carrying nearly 4,000 tonnes of fuel.

Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth earlier in the day said the spill “represents a danger" for the country of some 1.3 million people that relies heavily on tourism and has been been hit hard by the effects of the coronavirus pandemic. 
His government has appealed to France for help. France is Mauritius's “leading foreign investor” and one of its largest trading partners.

“Our country doesn’t have the skills and expertise to refloat stranded ships, so I have appealed for help from France and President Emmanuel Macron," he said. Bad weather has made it impossible to act, and “I worry what could happen Sunday when the weather deteriorates."

Online ship trackers showed the Panama-flagged bulk carrier had been en route from China to Brazil.

After the cracks in the hull were detected, a salvage team that had been working on the ship was evacuated, Ramano told reporters Thursday. Some 400 sea booms have been deployed in an effort to contain the spill.

Government statements this week said the ship ran aground July 25 and the National Coast Guard received no distress call.

A police inquiry has been opened into issues such as possible negligence, a government statement said.

The Indian Ocean island of Mauritius declared a “state of environmental emergency” late Friday after a ship that ran aground offshore days ago began spilling tonnes of fuel.

The Indian Ocean island of Mauritius declared a “state of environmental emergency” late Friday after a ship that ran aground offshore days ago began spilling tonnes of fuel. Satellite images showed a dark slick spreading in the waters near environmental areas that the government called “very sensitive.” Mauritius has said the Japanese-owned ship, the MV Wakashio, was carrying nearly 4,000 tonnes of fuel. Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth earlier in the day said the spill “represents a danger" for the country of some 1.3 million people that relies heavily on tourism and has been been hit hard by the effects of the coronavirus pandemic. His government has appealed to France for help. France is Mauritius's “leading foreign investor” and one of its largest trading partners. “Our country doesn’t have the skills and expertise to refloat stranded ships, so I have appealed for help from France and President Emmanuel Macron," he said. Bad weather has made it impossible to act, and “I worry what could happen Sunday when the weather deteriorates." Online ship trackers showed the Panama-flagged bulk carrier had been en route from China to Brazil. After the cracks in the hull were detected, a salvage team that had been working on the ship was evacuated, Ramano told reporters Thursday. Some 400 sea booms have been deployed in an effort to contain the spill. Government statements this week said the ship ran aground July 25 and the National Coast Guard received no distress call. A police inquiry has been opened into issues such as possible negligence, a government statement said.

Mauritius declares environmental emergency after oil spill

Former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi had imposed Emergency in India forty-four years ago on June 25, 1975.

The move threw India's democratic polity completely out of gear as several Opposition leaders were arrested and draconian measures undertaken to stifle free speech and press. The Emergency lasted for 21 months from June 25 to March 21, 1977.

The Emergency was imposed after India's President Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed issued orders under Article 352(1) of the Indian constitution plunging the country into what is now known as the "darkest period" in post-Independent India. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
Under the powers of the emergency law, Indira Gandhi had given herself extraordinary powers to arrest opposition leaders. There is an interesting story about George Fernandes, who later went on to become India's Defence minister.

He was living underground, trying to escape a police encounter. His socialist friends had made a plan to call BBC'S correspondent in Mark Tully. In case the police came knocking.

True to their suspicions — it happened and they called Mark Tully, and the BBC flashed the news.

Many believe that may have saved George Fernandes' life. Finally — in January 1977 — Indira Gandhi called for fresh elections and released all political prisoners. That was two months before the emergency was lifted.

The opposition warned Indians and said it's the last chance to choose between democracy and dictatorship. In the elections — both Indira Gandhi and her son Sanjay Gandhi lost their seats.

Morarji Desai became the first non-Congress Prime Minister of India and he amended the Indian constitution making it impossible for any government in the future to clamp emergency.

Former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi had imposed Emergency in India forty-four years ago on June 25, 1975. The move threw India's democratic polity completely out of gear as several Opposition leaders were arrested and draconian measures undertaken to stifle free speech and press.

Former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi had imposed Emergency in India forty-four years ago on June 25, 1975. The move threw India's democratic polity completely out of gear as several Opposition leaders were arrested and draconian measures undertaken to stifle free speech and press. The Emergency lasted for 21 months from June 25 to March 21, 1977. The Emergency was imposed after India's President Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed issued orders under Article 352(1) of the Indian constitution plunging the country into what is now known as the "darkest period" in post-Independent India. Under the powers of the emergency law, Indira Gandhi had given herself extraordinary powers to arrest opposition leaders. There is an interesting story about George Fernandes, who later went on to become India's Defence minister. He was living underground, trying to escape a police encounter. His socialist friends had made a plan to call BBC'S correspondent in Mark Tully. In case the police came knocking. True to their suspicions — it happened and they called Mark Tully, and the BBC flashed the news. Many believe that may have saved George Fernandes' life. Finally — in January 1977 — Indira Gandhi called for fresh elections and released all political prisoners. That was two months before the emergency was lifted. The opposition warned Indians and said it's the last chance to choose between democracy and dictatorship. In the elections — both Indira Gandhi and her son Sanjay Gandhi lost their seats. Morarji Desai became the first non-Congress Prime Minister of India and he amended the Indian constitution making it impossible for any government in the future to clamp emergency.

Revisiting the Emergency: When Iron Lady's dark move galvanized the Opposition

Emergency was the darkest hour of the post-independent India. It was a subversion of the Indian Constitution. Emergency also showed how easily Indira Gandhi could manipulate existing set-up to use draconian provisions vested in the Constitution. It was also a poor reflection on the status of the Congress party which failed to resist the supreme leader and her son’s encroachment on the democratic principle of the Constitution. Emergency not only broke the myth of the constant rule of Congress at Centre but also broke traditional strongholds of the party&nbsp;in north India. The effects of emergency could still be felt today by the leaders it spawned. 
 
Let’s recount the most important development which impacted Indian politics.

Emergency mainstreamed RSS in Indian politics. After the brief experience of 1967 when non-Congress governments came up in various north Indian states by taking help from Jan Sangh, RSS still remained at the political periphery.&nbsp;The close cooperation of RSS with other opposition parties&nbsp;gave rise to the idea of combined opposition. This idea made it possible for VP Singh to become the Prime Minister for a brief time as he received support from both Left and BJP.

Emergency also spawned new leaders. It also pushed old leaders to centre stage. Morarji Desai went on to become the Prime Minister at the age of 81. Vajpayee and Advani, from RSS background, became ministers. New leaders emerged both at the Central&nbsp;and state level. Mulayam Singh, Laloo Prasad Yadav, Nitish Kumar, George Fernandes, Ram Vilas Paswan and Sharad Yadav broke into national politics. Vajpayee and Advani went on to become PM and deputy Prime Ministers. Mulayam, Nitish and Laloo served both as chief ministers and Central ministers and also laid foundations of regional parties in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh respectively. It also impacted Congress. Many Congress leaders nurtured by Sanjay Gandhi came to dominate UPA 1 and 2. Sanjay Gandhi’s men had a little say in Rajiv Gandhi’s Congress but Sonia Gandhi brought back the old-timers into the system.

Another impact of emergency was the injection of activism in journalism. It also spawned a number of journalists who actively opposed Indira Gandhi. Many were jailed and many more lost jobs. The net impact of emergency was that anti-government reporting acquired political heft. It continued till 2014. Only after 2014, political heft of anti-government reporting came down.

Emergency also led to the foundation of BJP in the 1980s. With the failure of the Janata experiment, leaders associated with RSS formed a new party called BJP. When born, it chose to wall a centrist path until Advani decided to change it for good. After two back to back debacles in Lok Sabha election, Advani took a political turn and got the BJP married to hard Hindutva politics officially. BJP went on to form government in 1996 and by 2014 became the dominant party of India, displacing Congress from both Centre and many states.

Another impact of Emergency, in the long run, was political marginalisation of socialist politics in India. India repeatedly witnessed socialist not being able to run governments. It discredited them in public. The experiment of 1977, 1989 and 1996 showed that socialist parties cannot run governments on their own. Subsequently, the socialist block got divided, a part of it aligned with BJP led NDA and rest chose to become part of the Congress-led UPA. After 1996, the dominance of socialist politics was finished at the Centre.

Emergency also raised questions on the nature of Indian film industry. Barring few voices, many film stars remained silent. This continues till today where very few actors take strong political positions on important issues.

Emergency also&nbsp;tarred the legacy of Congress forever. The party which fought for India’s independence suspended democratic rights. Till today, the party&nbsp;grapples with the legacy of Congress despite admitting in public that it was a mistake.

Another impact of Emergency was the downfall of the Congress in north Indian states. Congress was able to retain south in the 1980s and was wiped out in the north. By 1989, Congress became irrelevant in Bihar and UP which accounts for 120 seats in Lok Sabha. It also showed every Indian how the absence of dissent in the party can compromise with the functioning of a nation. In absence of dissent in Congress, Indira got away with Emergency. It is the biggest lesson. Even the opposition was not convinced of a victory against Indira but people voted her out. It is a lesson, India&nbsp;must remember that dissent within the party and outside the government, in form of a strong opposition with a strong and neutral press, is an essential prerequisite for a functional democracy.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Emergency was the darkest hour of the post-independent India. It was a subversion of the Indian Constitution. Emergency also showed how easily Indira Gandhi could manipulate existing set-up to use draconian provisions vested in the Constitution.

Emergency was the darkest hour of the post-independent India. It was a subversion of the Indian Constitution. Emergency also showed how easily Indira Gandhi could manipulate existing set-up to use draconian provisions vested in the Constitution. It was also a poor reflection on the status of the Congress party which failed to resist the supreme leader and her son’s encroachment on the democratic principle of the Constitution. Emergency not only broke the myth of the constant rule of Congress at Centre but also broke traditional strongholds of the party in north India. The effects of emergency could still be felt today by the leaders it spawned. Let’s recount the most important development which impacted Indian politics. Emergency mainstreamed RSS in Indian politics. After the brief experience of 1967 when non-Congress governments came up in various north Indian states by taking help from Jan Sangh, RSS still remained at the political periphery. The close cooperation of RSS with other opposition parties gave rise to the idea of combined opposition. This idea made it possible for VP Singh to become the Prime Minister for a brief time as he received support from both Left and BJP. Emergency also spawned new leaders. It also pushed old leaders to centre stage. Morarji Desai went on to become the Prime Minister at the age of 81. Vajpayee and Advani, from RSS background, became ministers. New leaders emerged both at the Central and state level. Mulayam Singh, Laloo Prasad Yadav, Nitish Kumar, George Fernandes, Ram Vilas Paswan and Sharad Yadav broke into national politics. Vajpayee and Advani went on to become PM and deputy Prime Ministers. Mulayam, Nitish and Laloo served both as chief ministers and Central ministers and also laid foundations of regional parties in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh respectively. It also impacted Congress. Many Congress leaders nurtured by Sanjay Gandhi came to dominate UPA 1 and 2. Sanjay Gandhi’s men had a little say in Rajiv Gandhi’s Congress but Sonia Gandhi brought back the old-timers into the system. Another impact of emergency was the injection of activism in journalism. It also spawned a number of journalists who actively opposed Indira Gandhi. Many were jailed and many more lost jobs. The net impact of emergency was that anti-government reporting acquired political heft. It continued till 2014. Only after 2014, political heft of anti-government reporting came down. Emergency also led to the foundation of BJP in the 1980s. With the failure of the Janata experiment, leaders associated with RSS formed a new party called BJP. When born, it chose to wall a centrist path until Advani decided to change it for good. After two back to back debacles in Lok Sabha election, Advani took a political turn and got the BJP married to hard Hindutva politics officially. BJP went on to form government in 1996 and by 2014 became the dominant party of India, displacing Congress from both Centre and many states. Another impact of Emergency, in the long run, was political marginalisation of socialist politics in India. India repeatedly witnessed socialist not being able to run governments. It discredited them in public. The experiment of 1977, 1989 and 1996 showed that socialist parties cannot run governments on their own. Subsequently, the socialist block got divided, a part of it aligned with BJP led NDA and rest chose to become part of the Congress-led UPA. After 1996, the dominance of socialist politics was finished at the Centre. Emergency also raised questions on the nature of Indian film industry. Barring few voices, many film stars remained silent. This continues till today where very few actors take strong political positions on important issues. Emergency also tarred the legacy of Congress forever. The party which fought for India’s independence suspended democratic rights. Till today, the party grapples with the legacy of Congress despite admitting in public that it was a mistake. Another impact of Emergency was the downfall of the Congress in north Indian states. Congress was able to retain south in the 1980s and was wiped out in the north. By 1989, Congress became irrelevant in Bihar and UP which accounts for 120 seats in Lok Sabha. It also showed every Indian how the absence of dissent in the party can compromise with the functioning of a nation. In absence of dissent in Congress, Indira got away with Emergency. It is the biggest lesson. Even the opposition was not convinced of a victory against Indira but people voted her out. It is a lesson, India must remember that dissent within the party and outside the government, in form of a strong opposition with a strong and neutral press, is an essential prerequisite for a functional democracy. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Children of Emergency

Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Thursday said that former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi imposed the nationwide emergency to save her PM's chair as her election to Lok Sabha from Raebareli was set aside by Allahabad High Court on the ground of malpractices.

"Today we recall the draconian day of 25 June 1975, when the then Congress Government led by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi imposed emergency to save her PM chair as her election to Lok Sabha from Raebareli was set aside by Allahabad High Court on the ground of malpractices," said Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad.

"During the emergency period, prominent leaders like JP Narayan, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Chandrashekhar, LK Advani, and George Fernandes were arrested and tortured," he added.

The Union Minister elaborated saying "even media was not spared and censorship was imposed. Even judiciary was not spared, those whose judgment Congress party found uncomfortable were superseded. Even the unmarried people were forcibly sterilized."

Ravi also slammed the slogan of "India is Indira and Indira is India," which was started by the then Congress leader Debakanta Baruah.

"Debakanta Baruah coined the sycophantic slogan, "India is Indira and Indira is India." Back then, there was no limit to such sycophancy, he further said.

"Our leaders like Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Rajnath Singh, Arun Jaitley, Ananth Kumar, Sushma Swaraj, JP Nadda, and I opposed it and fought against the emergency as student leaders," he added.

Lastly, he slammed the functioning of the Congress party, saying that whoever goes against the party leader Rahul Gandhi is sidelined in the party.

"To date, Congress party has continued with its 'darbar' culture where Gandhi family calls all the shots at the party. Even to this day, whoever suggests anything against Rahul Gandhi is sidelined in the party," he added.

On 25 June 1975, late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi had announced a national emergency.

Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Thursday said that former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi imposed the nationwide emergency to save her PM's chair as her election to Lok Sabha from Raebareli was set aside by Allahabad High Court on the ground of malpractices.

Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Thursday said that former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi imposed the nationwide emergency to save her PM's chair as her election to Lok Sabha from Raebareli was set aside by Allahabad High Court on the ground of malpractices. "Today we recall the draconian day of 25 June 1975, when the then Congress Government led by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi imposed emergency to save her PM chair as her election to Lok Sabha from Raebareli was set aside by Allahabad High Court on the ground of malpractices," said Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad. "During the emergency period, prominent leaders like JP Narayan, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Chandrashekhar, LK Advani, and George Fernandes were arrested and tortured," he added. The Union Minister elaborated saying "even media was not spared and censorship was imposed. Even judiciary was not spared, those whose judgment Congress party found uncomfortable were superseded. Even the unmarried people were forcibly sterilized." Ravi also slammed the slogan of "India is Indira and Indira is India," which was started by the then Congress leader Debakanta Baruah. "Debakanta Baruah coined the sycophantic slogan, "India is Indira and Indira is India." Back then, there was no limit to such sycophancy, he further said. "Our leaders like Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Rajnath Singh, Arun Jaitley, Ananth Kumar, Sushma Swaraj, JP Nadda, and I opposed it and fought against the emergency as student leaders," he added. Lastly, he slammed the functioning of the Congress party, saying that whoever goes against the party leader Rahul Gandhi is sidelined in the party. "To date, Congress party has continued with its 'darbar' culture where Gandhi family calls all the shots at the party. Even to this day, whoever suggests anything against Rahul Gandhi is sidelined in the party," he added. On 25 June 1975, late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi had announced a national emergency.

Indira Gandhi imposed emergency to save her PM's chair: Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad

The growing economic crisis amid the global coronavirus pandemic has led the Federal Reserve to announce drastic emergency measures.

To shore up confidence and to keep the financial sector running, the Federal Reserve has slashed the key interest rate to virtually zero. 
 
This is the second emergency federal rate cut in two weeks. The rate has been cut by 50 basis points to 0.25 per cent.&nbsp;

However, the fresh stimulus has failed to lift confidence.&nbsp;

Jerome Powell, the 16th Chair of the Federal Reserve recently announced that the economic activity will be weak in Q2. He also added that the fiscal response to the coronavirus was 'critical'. Over the last few weeks, USD has slipped owing to the emergency rate cuts.

Additionally, Wall Street futures also dropped sharply, with markets not responding nicely to the Federal Reserve's dramatic steps.

Powell further said that negative interest rates are not likely to be appropriate as the economic outlook continues to evolve daily, with shifting ground based on the progression of the virus.&nbsp;

<h6><img alt="pppppppp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5267a394-7707-47f0-b461-21141059e413" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/31723-2017-11-02t050404z_1_lynxmpeda10aq_rtroptp_3_usa-trump-fed-20171102065538.jpg" /> 
Jerome Powell | Reuters 
&nbsp;</h6>

And, the benchmark borrowing rate has been cut to a range of 0 to 0.25 per cent.

The rates are now at the same level witnessed during the 2008 global financial crisis.

The &nbsp;Federal Open Market Committee also pledged to maintain the same rates "until it is confident that the economy has weathered recent events".

In a series of monetary policy moves, the Federal Reserve also bought 500 billion dollars in treasury debt and 200 billion dollars in other securities.

Federal Reserve chief Jerome Powell was reported saying that the primary purpose of these securities purchases is to restore smooth market functioning so that credit can continue to flow.

If reports are to be believed, the purchases will also foster more accommodative financial conditions.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/opinions-blogs/explained-coronavirus-outbreak-how-india-will-take-time-to-get-used-to-social-distancing-286803" hreflang="en">Explained: Coronavirus outbreak - how India will take time to get used to social distancing</a>

Powell in a briefing warned that the US economy will be ''weak'' in the second quarter of the year due to coronavirus.

According to predictions, the impact of the coronavirus will be felt in the market during the April-June period and is likely to affect businesses and manufacturing not just in the US, but on a global scale.

However, the chance of recession this year will depend on how soon the pandemic impact can be contained.

Powell also said that the Federal Reserve does not believe that negative interest rates will be appropriate, but fiscal measures by the government are "critical" to respond to the economic damage.

The move was well-received by US President Donald Trump who congratulated the Federal Reserve after it took drastic emergency measures.

Trump has relentlessly demanded federal rate cuts and more rate cuts and is "very happy" with the decision.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/precaution-not-panic-here-are-narratives-of-people-who-have-successfully-recovered-from-covid-19-286789" hreflang="en">Precaution, not panic: Here are narratives of people who have successfully recovered from Covid-19</a>

On Saturday, Trump asserted he could dismiss Powell, whom he selected for the role.

“I think I have the right to remove. I have the right to also take him and put him in a regular position and put somebody else in charge. And I haven’t made any decisions on that,” Trump told reporters during a coronavirus briefing at the White House

(With inputs from agencies)

The growing economic crisis amid the global coronavirus pandemic has led the Federal Reserve to announce drastic emergency measures. To shore up confidence and to keep the financial sector running, the Federal Reserve has slashed the key interest rate to virtually zero.

The growing economic crisis amid the global coronavirus pandemic has led the Federal Reserve to announce drastic emergency measures. To shore up confidence and to keep the financial sector running, the Federal Reserve has slashed the key interest rate to virtually zero. This is the second emergency federal rate cut in two weeks. The rate has been cut by 50 basis points to 0.25 per cent. However, the fresh stimulus has failed to lift confidence. Jerome Powell, the 16th Chair of the Federal Reserve recently announced that the economic activity will be weak in Q2. He also added that the fiscal response to the coronavirus was 'critical'. Over the last few weeks, USD has slipped owing to the emergency rate cuts. Additionally, Wall Street futures also dropped sharply, with markets not responding nicely to the Federal Reserve's dramatic steps. Powell further said that negative interest rates are not likely to be appropriate as the economic outlook continues to evolve daily, with shifting ground based on the progression of the virus. Jerome Powell | Reuters And, the benchmark borrowing rate has been cut to a range of 0 to 0.25 per cent. The rates are now at the same level witnessed during the 2008 global financial crisis. The Federal Open Market Committee also pledged to maintain the same rates "until it is confident that the economy has weathered recent events". In a series of monetary policy moves, the Federal Reserve also bought 500 billion dollars in treasury debt and 200 billion dollars in other securities. Federal Reserve chief Jerome Powell was reported saying that the primary purpose of these securities purchases is to restore smooth market functioning so that credit can continue to flow. If reports are to be believed, the purchases will also foster more accommodative financial conditions. Also read: Explained: Coronavirus outbreak - how India will take time to get used to social distancing Powell in a briefing warned that the US economy will be ''weak'' in the second quarter of the year due to coronavirus. According to predictions, the impact of the coronavirus will be felt in the market during the April-June period and is likely to affect businesses and manufacturing not just in the US, but on a global scale. However, the chance of recession this year will depend on how soon the pandemic impact can be contained. Powell also said that the Federal Reserve does not believe that negative interest rates will be appropriate, but fiscal measures by the government are "critical" to respond to the economic damage. The move was well-received by US President Donald Trump who congratulated the Federal Reserve after it took drastic emergency measures. Trump has relentlessly demanded federal rate cuts and more rate cuts and is "very happy" with the decision. Also read: Precaution, not panic: Here are narratives of people who have successfully recovered from Covid-19 On Saturday, Trump asserted he could dismiss Powell, whom he selected for the role. “I think I have the right to remove. I have the right to also take him and put him in a regular position and put somebody else in charge. And I haven’t made any decisions on that,” Trump told reporters during a coronavirus briefing at the White House (With inputs from agencies)

US Federal Reserve announces emergency measures amid coronavirus-triggered slowdown

The North African country of Egypt&nbsp;has been under a state of emergency since April 2017 bombings of two Coptic churches by an Islamic State group affiliate that killed more than 40 people.

The extension comes nine years after the January 2011 uprising that toppled former president Hosni Mubarak, who had also ruled for decades under a state of emergency.

"The president of Egypt ordered the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/freedom-under-attack-in-egypt-256185">extension of the state of emergency</a> nationwide for three months starting Monday, January 27," said the official gazette on Sunday.&nbsp;

Under a state of emergency, police powers such as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/egypts-ex-military-chief-of-staff-released-after-near-two-year-detention-269622">arresting and holding citizens</a> are extended and&nbsp;constitutional rights&nbsp;such as freedom of speech and assembly are curtailed.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/egypt-seeks-to-parry-rights-criticism-after-mass-arrests-261743">Egypt seeks to parry human rights criticism after mass arrests</a>

Egypt has for years been battling an Islamist insurgency, which surged following the 2013 military ouster of former president Mohamed Morsi.

The attacks have been largely concentrated in the restive <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/egypt-ethiopia-sudan-views-come-closer-on-giant-nile-dam-sudanese-minister-269627">northern Sinai Peninsula</a> but occasionally struck elsewhere in the country.

In February 2018, Egypt launched a large-scale nationwide anti-militant operation.

Rights groups say the state of emergency coupled with the government's effective protest ban since 2013 has helped it in crushing dissent.&nbsp;

In September, rare minor protests broke out in Egypt triggered by online calls for Sisi's removal.&nbsp;

Some 4,000 people were arrested in the following weeks, according to local rights groups.

Activists have called it one of the worst waves of a crackdown against any dissent that was launched when Sisi officially took power in 2014. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

The North African country of Egypt has been under a state of emergency since April 2017 bombings of two Coptic churches by an Islamic State group affiliate that killed more than 40 people.

The North African country of Egypt has been under a state of emergency since April 2017 bombings of two Coptic churches by an Islamic State group affiliate that killed more than 40 people. The extension comes nine years after the January 2011 uprising that toppled former president Hosni Mubarak, who had also ruled for decades under a state of emergency. "The president of Egypt ordered the extension of the state of emergency nationwide for three months starting Monday, January 27," said the official gazette on Sunday. Under a state of emergency, police powers such as arresting and holding citizens are extended and constitutional rights such as freedom of speech and assembly are curtailed. Also Read: Egypt seeks to parry human rights criticism after mass arrests Egypt has for years been battling an Islamist insurgency, which surged following the 2013 military ouster of former president Mohamed Morsi. The attacks have been largely concentrated in the restive northern Sinai Peninsula but occasionally struck elsewhere in the country. In February 2018, Egypt launched a large-scale nationwide anti-militant operation. Rights groups say the state of emergency coupled with the government's effective protest ban since 2013 has helped it in crushing dissent. In September, rare minor protests broke out in Egypt triggered by online calls for Sisi's removal. Some 4,000 people were arrested in the following weeks, according to local rights groups. Activists have called it one of the worst waves of a crackdown against any dissent that was launched when Sisi officially took power in 2014.

Egypt extends state of emergency to three years

January 11 in history: From Japanese invading forces to state of emergency and more!

After the Supreme Court on Friday directed the Jammu and Kashmir administration to review the restrictive orders imposed in the Union Territory within a week, Congress leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-to-pass-order-on-plea-against-government-formation-in-maharashtra-264525">Kapil Sibal</a> on Friday questioned Home Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jnu-row-protesters-in-mumbai-moved-from-gateway-of-india-to-azad-maidan-272640">Amit Shah</a>, asking what was the 'emergency' behind imposing Section 144 on August 4, 2019, and said that it cannot be used to 'suppress' the freedom of speech. 
 
Addressing a press conference at the Congress headquarters, Sibal said, "I want to ask the Home Minister (Amit Shah) that what was the emergency on August 4? You cannot use <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uttar-pradesh-section-144-extended-for-security-in-ayodhya-till-25-february-270783">Section 144</a> to suppress freedom of speech. I want to tell the Home Minister, the government that if it will listen to the voice of people, it will always remain in governance." 
 
The top court while hearing the petitions challenging restrictions in Jammu and Kashmir stated that the right to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/protests-in-the-times-of-internet-shutdowns-271396">access the internet</a> is a fundamental right under Article 19 of the Constitution of India. 
 
"Today the Supreme Court has given a historic <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-orders-review-on-all-restrictive-orders-in-jammu-and-kashmir-after-article-370-abrogation-273307">verdict</a> in the matter of Jammu and Kashmir, the citizens of the country were worried that the people do not know about the situation in Kashmir. No one was able to get out of the house, there was no communication, that is why we had filed a petition and stated that Section 144 should be reviewed," said Sibal. 
 
"The court has clearly stated that whatever order regarding the imposition of Section 144, the Jammu and Kashmir administration should put in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/envoys-term-srinagar-interaction-with-locals-positive-internet-restoration-peace-dominate-the-meet-273264">public domain</a> so that people can challenge it if they want to. Moreover, the decision to suspend internet services cannot be made for an indefinite time," he added. 
 
The top court said that Kashmir has seen a lot of violence and that it will try to maintain a balance between human rights and freedoms with the issue of security. 
It also directed the Jammu and Kashmir administration to review the restrictive orders imposed in the region within a week. "The citizens should be provided highest security and liberty,' the apex court said. 
 
The top court made observations and issued directions while pronouncing the verdict on a number of petitions challenging the restrictions and internet blockade imposed in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-kashmir-is-now-corruption-free-mukhtar-abbas-naqvi-273161">Jammu and Kashmir</a> after the abrogation of Article 370 in August last year. 
 
The Supreme Court had on November 27 reserved the judgment on a batch of petitions challenging restrictions imposed on communication, media and telephone services in Jammu and Kashmir pursuant to revocation of Article 370. 
 
The court heard the petitions filed by various petitioners including <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/assams-aiudf-protests-against-citizenship-amendment-bill-in-delhi-267164">Ghulam Nabi Azad</a> and Kashmir Times editor Anuradha Bhasin. 
. 
The petitions were filed after the central government scrapped Article 370 in August and bifurcated Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories, Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. 
 
Following this, phone lines and the internet were blocked in the region. The government had, however, contended that it has progressively eased restrictions. 
 
Speaking about the delegation of 15 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/around-15-foreign-envoys-to-tour-jammu-and-kashmir-on-thursday-eu-envoys-next-273050">foreign envoys</a>, who are on a two-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir, Sibal took a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and raised a question about his 'attachment' with the foreigners.

Watch:&nbsp;Foreign envoys in Jammu today

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/foreign-envoys-in-jammu-today-273338/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"I want to ask the Prime Minister that why are you so attached to the foreign people and not the people of this country? Get open with the people of India too and get transparent. Let us also visit, why do you trust others and not us?" said Sibal. 
 
A delegation of 15 foreign envoys, who are on a two-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir, met civil society representatives and community leaders in Jammu on Friday. 
The delegation had arrived in Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday and met political leaders and senior Army officials in Srinagar.

After the Supreme Court on Friday directed the Jammu and Kashmir administration to review the restrictive orders imposed in the Union Territory within a week, Congress leader Kapil Sibal on Friday questioned Home Minister Amit Shah, asking what was the 'emergency' behind imposing Section 144 on August 4, 2019, and said that it cannot be used to 'suppress' the freedom of speech.

After the Supreme Court on Friday directed the Jammu and Kashmir administration to review the restrictive orders imposed in the Union Territory within a week, Congress leader Kapil Sibal on Friday questioned Home Minister Amit Shah, asking what was the 'emergency' behind imposing Section 144 on August 4, 2019, and said that it cannot be used to 'suppress' the freedom of speech. Addressing a press conference at the Congress headquarters, Sibal said, "I want to ask the Home Minister (Amit Shah) that what was the emergency on August 4? You cannot use Section 144 to suppress freedom of speech. I want to tell the Home Minister, the government that if it will listen to the voice of people, it will always remain in governance." The top court while hearing the petitions challenging restrictions in Jammu and Kashmir stated that the right to access the internet is a fundamental right under Article 19 of the Constitution of India. "Today the Supreme Court has given a historic verdict in the matter of Jammu and Kashmir, the citizens of the country were worried that the people do not know about the situation in Kashmir. No one was able to get out of the house, there was no communication, that is why we had filed a petition and stated that Section 144 should be reviewed," said Sibal. "The court has clearly stated that whatever order regarding the imposition of Section 144, the Jammu and Kashmir administration should put in the public domain so that people can challenge it if they want to. Moreover, the decision to suspend internet services cannot be made for an indefinite time," he added. The top court said that Kashmir has seen a lot of violence and that it will try to maintain a balance between human rights and freedoms with the issue of security. It also directed the Jammu and Kashmir administration to review the restrictive orders imposed in the region within a week. "The citizens should be provided highest security and liberty,' the apex court said. The top court made observations and issued directions while pronouncing the verdict on a number of petitions challenging the restrictions and internet blockade imposed in Jammu and Kashmir after the abrogation of Article 370 in August last year. The Supreme Court had on November 27 reserved the judgment on a batch of petitions challenging restrictions imposed on communication, media and telephone services in Jammu and Kashmir pursuant to revocation of Article 370. The court heard the petitions filed by various petitioners including Ghulam Nabi Azad and Kashmir Times editor Anuradha Bhasin. . The petitions were filed after the central government scrapped Article 370 in August and bifurcated Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories, Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. Following this, phone lines and the internet were blocked in the region. The government had, however, contended that it has progressively eased restrictions. Speaking about the delegation of 15 foreign envoys, who are on a two-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir, Sibal took a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and raised a question about his 'attachment' with the foreigners. Watch: Foreign envoys in Jammu today × "I want to ask the Prime Minister that why are you so attached to the foreign people and not the people of this country? Get open with the people of India too and get transparent. Let us also visit, why do you trust others and not us?" said Sibal. A delegation of 15 foreign envoys, who are on a two-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir, met civil society representatives and community leaders in Jammu on Friday. The delegation had arrived in Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday and met political leaders and senior Army officials in Srinagar.

Section 144 cannot be used to suppress 'freedom of Speech': Kapil Sibal

Australia's most populous state declared its second state of emergency in two months on Thursday (December 19) as extreme heat and strong winds fanned scores of uncontrolled bushfires with aerial vision showing at least three properties on fire in south west Sydney.

Properties destroyed, as state of emergency declared for New South Wales

Bushfires continue to pose a major threat in Australia. Emergency declared in 2 states of Australia.

Massive Bushfires in Australia: Bushfires continue to pose a major threat

California's governor declared a statewide emergency on Sunday as a huge blaze, fanned by strong winds, forced mass evacuations and power blackouts as it bore down on towns in the famed Sonoma wine region.

The so-called Kincade Fire, north of San Francisco, has spread to 30,000 acres (12,000 hectares) and was only 10 per cent contained by Sunday evening, state fire authorities said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/firefighters-struggle-against-massive-wind-whipped-california-wildfire-258443">Firefighters struggle against massive, wind-whipped California wildfire</a>

The blaze, the largest of more than a dozen wildfires burning throughout the state, has destroyed dozens of homes and vineyards, including the renowned 150-year-old Soda Rock Winery.

"We've seen the news. We are devastated," the owners said in a Facebook message, adding that all staff at the winery -- located in the town of Healdsburg, 70 miles north of San Francisco -- are safe.

At least two hospitals in Santa Rosa evacuated patients over the weekend to other facilities.&nbsp;

The Kincade Fire -- the most devastating in California this year -- ignited Wednesday and spread quickly thanks to powerful gusts of up to 90 miles (145 kilometers) per hour.

"Over 3,000 people are working on the fire as we speak, making sure the evacuation is going smoothly and people are taking it seriously," said state governor Gavin Newsom.

An estimated 180,000 people were under mandatory evacuation orders, including in parts of Santa Rosa and a large swath of Sonoma County all the way to the Pacific Ocean. &nbsp;

'Largest evacuation in memory'

"This is the largest evacuation that any of us at the Sheriff's Office can remember. Take care of each other," the Sonoma County sheriff's office tweeted.

Authorities said the area would remain under dangerous red flag conditions until Monday morning.

"Things will improve as we head into Monday and Tuesday but we need to be resilient," a spokesman for the National Weather Service told a news conference.

A fire official warned that should the flames continue spreading west and jump over a major freeway -- the 101 -- that could prove even more catastrophic, as that region hasn't had any fires since the 1940s.

"The fuels in that area are extremely dense, they are extremely old and decadent, and they are extremely dry," he said, referring to the combustible materials including shrubs and trees feeding the fire.

More than 3,000 firefighters backed by air tankers and helicopters were battling to control the blaze, which was not expected to be contained before November 7, fire officials said.

Police to prevent looting

Sonoma County Sheriff Mark Essick told a news conference that hundreds of police officers backed by the National Guard had been deployed in regions under evacuation orders to check property and prevent looting.&nbsp;

Several other fires have erupted throughout the state in the last week, fueled by high winds, bone-dry conditions and temperatures in the 80s and 90s Fahrenheit (26-32 Celsius).&nbsp;

One major fire -- the Tick Fire -- in the southern part of the state, north of Los Angeles, also prompted evacuations and destroyed a number of homes near Santa Clarita.

But on Sunday, most evacuation orders were lifted as some 1,000 firefighters worked to contain the fire that burned more than 4,500 acres.

In a bid to reduce the risk of fire, California's largest utility, Pacific Gas &amp; Electric Co., said it expected to turn off power to nearly one million customers across northern and central California.

"Winds of this magnitude pose a higher risk of damage and sparks on the electric system and rapid wildfire spread," the company said in a statement. "The fire risk is even higher because vegetation on the ground has been dried out by recent wind events."

PG&amp;E has come under intense scrutiny after it emerged that one of its transmission lines may have played a role in the Kincade Fire.

The same type of line was responsible for California's deadliest-ever wildfire -- last year's Camp Fire, which killed 86 people.

PG&amp;E, which filed for bankruptcy protection earlier this year, has been blamed for several other fires in the state in recent years.

Newsom hit out at the utility earlier this week, saying he was infuriated that a state such as California -- which boasts the fifth-largest economy in the world -- had to endure blackouts.

California's governor declared a statewide emergency on Sunday as a huge blaze, fanned by strong winds, forced mass evacuations and power blackouts as it bore down on towns in the famed Sonoma wine region.

California's governor declared a statewide emergency on Sunday as a huge blaze, fanned by strong winds, forced mass evacuations and power blackouts as it bore down on towns in the famed Sonoma wine region. The so-called Kincade Fire, north of San Francisco, has spread to 30,000 acres (12,000 hectares) and was only 10 per cent contained by Sunday evening, state fire authorities said. Also read: Firefighters struggle against massive, wind-whipped California wildfire The blaze, the largest of more than a dozen wildfires burning throughout the state, has destroyed dozens of homes and vineyards, including the renowned 150-year-old Soda Rock Winery. "We've seen the news. We are devastated," the owners said in a Facebook message, adding that all staff at the winery -- located in the town of Healdsburg, 70 miles north of San Francisco -- are safe. At least two hospitals in Santa Rosa evacuated patients over the weekend to other facilities. The Kincade Fire -- the most devastating in California this year -- ignited Wednesday and spread quickly thanks to powerful gusts of up to 90 miles (145 kilometers) per hour. "Over 3,000 people are working on the fire as we speak, making sure the evacuation is going smoothly and people are taking it seriously," said state governor Gavin Newsom. An estimated 180,000 people were under mandatory evacuation orders, including in parts of Santa Rosa and a large swath of Sonoma County all the way to the Pacific Ocean. 'Largest evacuation in memory' "This is the largest evacuation that any of us at the Sheriff's Office can remember. Take care of each other," the Sonoma County sheriff's office tweeted. Authorities said the area would remain under dangerous red flag conditions until Monday morning. "Things will improve as we head into Monday and Tuesday but we need to be resilient," a spokesman for the National Weather Service told a news conference. A fire official warned that should the flames continue spreading west and jump over a major freeway -- the 101 -- that could prove even more catastrophic, as that region hasn't had any fires since the 1940s. "The fuels in that area are extremely dense, they are extremely old and decadent, and they are extremely dry," he said, referring to the combustible materials including shrubs and trees feeding the fire. More than 3,000 firefighters backed by air tankers and helicopters were battling to control the blaze, which was not expected to be contained before November 7, fire officials said. Police to prevent looting Sonoma County Sheriff Mark Essick told a news conference that hundreds of police officers backed by the National Guard had been deployed in regions under evacuation orders to check property and prevent looting. Several other fires have erupted throughout the state in the last week, fueled by high winds, bone-dry conditions and temperatures in the 80s and 90s Fahrenheit (26-32 Celsius). One major fire -- the Tick Fire -- in the southern part of the state, north of Los Angeles, also prompted evacuations and destroyed a number of homes near Santa Clarita. But on Sunday, most evacuation orders were lifted as some 1,000 firefighters worked to contain the fire that burned more than 4,500 acres. In a bid to reduce the risk of fire, California's largest utility, Pacific Gas & Electric Co., said it expected to turn off power to nearly one million customers across northern and central California. "Winds of this magnitude pose a higher risk of damage and sparks on the electric system and rapid wildfire spread," the company said in a statement. "The fire risk is even higher because vegetation on the ground has been dried out by recent wind events." PG&E has come under intense scrutiny after it emerged that one of its transmission lines may have played a role in the Kincade Fire. The same type of line was responsible for California's deadliest-ever wildfire -- last year's Camp Fire, which killed 86 people. PG&E, which filed for bankruptcy protection earlier this year, has been blamed for several other fires in the state in recent years. Newsom hit out at the utility earlier this week, saying he was infuriated that a state such as California -- which boasts the fifth-largest economy in the world -- had to endure blackouts.

State of emergency declared as California wildfires rage

Hurricane&nbsp;Lorenzo&nbsp;has reached Portugal's Azores islands and is already causing strong winds and a few minor incidents across the mid-Atlantic archipelago, authorities said early on Wednesday.

"Right now the hurricane has already arrived in the Azores because we are already being affected by it," said Carlos Neves, the president of the Azores' civil protection authority.

Speaking to reporters, Neves said the hurricane is southwest of the island of Flores and it will affect the remaining western islands at around 6 a.m. on Wednesday.

The hurricane, packing&nbsp;155-kph&nbsp;winds, is likely to cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions, with only a slow weakening forecast over the next 48 hours, US&nbsp;forecaster the National Hurricane Center said.

Neves said five minor incidents, such as fallen trees, have been reported so far.

Despite weakening from a Saturday peak,&nbsp;Lorenzo&nbsp;is still a strong Category 2 hurricane but will downgrade to a Category 1 as it continues to follow its path, Portugal's meteorological agency IPMA has said.

Schools and non-emergency public services will be closed on Wednesday, the regional government has said, with ports on some islands also shut.

Authorities closed numerous streets and roads in the Azores as a precautionary measure.

Five minor incidents, including fallen trees, had been reported, while more than 300 firefighters had been put on alert.

"The situation will worsen in the next few hours," Vasco Cordeiro, the president of the regional government, told Portuguese TV channel SIC, as winds strengthened in Flores, which IPMA expects will be the worst hit. The island has about 4,000 inhabitants.

Hurricane Lorenzo has reached Portugal's Azores islands and is already causing strong winds and a few minor incidents across the mid-Atlantic archipelago, authorities said early on Wednesday.

Hurricane Lorenzo has reached Portugal's Azores islands and is already causing strong winds and a few minor incidents across the mid-Atlantic archipelago, authorities said early on Wednesday. "Right now the hurricane has already arrived in the Azores because we are already being affected by it," said Carlos Neves, the president of the Azores' civil protection authority. Speaking to reporters, Neves said the hurricane is southwest of the island of Flores and it will affect the remaining western islands at around 6 a.m. on Wednesday. The hurricane, packing 155-kph winds, is likely to cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions, with only a slow weakening forecast over the next 48 hours, US forecaster the National Hurricane Center said. Neves said five minor incidents, such as fallen trees, have been reported so far. Despite weakening from a Saturday peak, Lorenzo is still a strong Category 2 hurricane but will downgrade to a Category 1 as it continues to follow its path, Portugal's meteorological agency IPMA has said. Schools and non-emergency public services will be closed on Wednesday, the regional government has said, with ports on some islands also shut. Authorities closed numerous streets and roads in the Azores as a precautionary measure. Five minor incidents, including fallen trees, had been reported, while more than 300 firefighters had been put on alert. "The situation will worsen in the next few hours," Vasco Cordeiro, the president of the regional government, told Portuguese TV channel SIC, as winds strengthened in Flores, which IPMA expects will be the worst hit. The island has about 4,000 inhabitants.

Emergency services prepare for hurricane Lorenzo in Portugal

Nepalese Deputy Prime Minister Upendra Yadav has claimed that there is no such condition to declare "Health Emergency" in the country following the dengue outbreak.

After facing intense criticism and demand from the MPs of opposition parties, Yadav, who is also a Minister for Health and Population claimed that the government was capable of controlling the epidemic.

He, therefore, refrained from demands of declaring an emergency.

<iframe data-google-container-id="4" data-load-complete="true" frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/6516239/outofpage_1x1_desktop_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/6516239/outofpage_1x1_desktop_0" scrolling="no" srcdoc="" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>"In our country, this disease also emerged to be complex like that of other nations but is seen with very minimal effect and for having a very low mortality rate.

The situation of emergency would not be viable for Nepal and would like to acknowledge it to everyone present here," Yadav said in his address to the Parliament on Wednesday.

Referring to the latest outbreak of dengue in Bangladesh, Philippines and other Asian nations, Yadav claimed that it has been contained through the active involvement of all three tiers of government.

As per Health Minister, the total number of infected people in the Himalayan nation now stands at 5,095 with six mortalities recorded.

The disease has already gripped 56 districts of the nation.

The government has been able to dispense the dengue tests kits to only 11 affected districts with special sanitation campaign underway in Dharan, Ithari, Biratnagar and Pokhara districts only.

Several MPs from the opposition and the ruling party had questioned Health Minister on government being silent over declaring the disease as "Health Emergency", even though it was taking the form of epidemic worrying the public.

During a meeting, lawmaker Devendra Raj Kandel questioned the minister about not declaring the state of emergency when the disease had already spread to 56 districts.

Other lawmakers namely Sujata Pariyar, Khagaraj Adhikari, Ram Bahadur Bista, Dilendra Prasad Badu, Amanlal Modi, Pushpa Bhusal, Prem Suwal, Parbata DC Chaudhary, Dev Prasad Timilsina, Meena Subba, Jeevan Ram Shrestha, Birodh Khatiwada , Krishna Gopal Shrestha, Rajendra Kumar KC and Nabina Lama also drew the government's attention to dengue epidemic in the country.

Nepalese Deputy Prime Minister Upendra Yadav has claimed that there is no such condition to declare "Health Emergency" in the country following the dengue outbreak.

Nepalese Deputy Prime Minister Upendra Yadav has claimed that there is no such condition to declare "Health Emergency" in the country following the dengue outbreak. After facing intense criticism and demand from the MPs of opposition parties, Yadav, who is also a Minister for Health and Population claimed that the government was capable of controlling the epidemic. He, therefore, refrained from demands of declaring an emergency. "In our country, this disease also emerged to be complex like that of other nations but is seen with very minimal effect and for having a very low mortality rate. The situation of emergency would not be viable for Nepal and would like to acknowledge it to everyone present here," Yadav said in his address to the Parliament on Wednesday. Referring to the latest outbreak of dengue in Bangladesh, Philippines and other Asian nations, Yadav claimed that it has been contained through the active involvement of all three tiers of government. As per Health Minister, the total number of infected people in the Himalayan nation now stands at 5,095 with six mortalities recorded. The disease has already gripped 56 districts of the nation. The government has been able to dispense the dengue tests kits to only 11 affected districts with special sanitation campaign underway in Dharan, Ithari, Biratnagar and Pokhara districts only. Several MPs from the opposition and the ruling party had questioned Health Minister on government being silent over declaring the disease as "Health Emergency", even though it was taking the form of epidemic worrying the public. During a meeting, lawmaker Devendra Raj Kandel questioned the minister about not declaring the state of emergency when the disease had already spread to 56 districts. Other lawmakers namely Sujata Pariyar, Khagaraj Adhikari, Ram Bahadur Bista, Dilendra Prasad Badu, Amanlal Modi, Pushpa Bhusal, Prem Suwal, Parbata DC Chaudhary, Dev Prasad Timilsina, Meena Subba, Jeevan Ram Shrestha, Birodh Khatiwada , Krishna Gopal Shrestha, Rajendra Kumar KC and Nabina Lama also drew the government's attention to dengue epidemic in the country.

No such condition to declare 'Health Emergency' in Nepal after dengue outbreak

Three more people died as torrential rain and flash floods battered southeastern Spain, raising the death toll to five with the rising waters causing havoc for travellers and forcing 3,500 people from their homes, officials said Friday.

The latest fatality was a man whose body was found in the area of Redovan, some 50 kilometres (30 miles) southwest of the city of Alicante, a spokeswoman for the emergency services said, without giving details.

Earlier in the day, a 36-year-old man died in the Andalusia region after his car was swept away in the rushing waters, the local emergency services said. His empty car had been found earlier in the day.

Also in the morning, a middle-aged man died in the coastal city of Almeria after his car got stuck in a tunnel that flooded within minutes, they said.

City mayor Ramon Fernandez-Pacheco told Cadena Ser radio that police managed to save two other people who were also in the vehicle but were unable to save him.

Two other people, a 61-year-old man and his sister, 51, died on Thursday when their vehicle was swept away as fast-moving waters swamped a road in Caudete, a municipality around 100 kilometres (60 miles) southwest of the port city of Valencia.

Parts of southeastern Spain have since Wednesday suffered some of the heaviest rainfall on record, which has caused chaos on the roads, cutting public transport and prompting rivers to burst their banks, flooding homes.

In Redovan, the floodwaters reached knee-height with residents working tirelessly to bail out the water with buckets, an AFP photographer said, while rescuers were using diggers and trucks to rescue other stranded locals.

More than 3,500 people have been evacuated from their homes, the interior ministry said.

Some 3,000 state security forces, including police, firefighters and soldiers from a military emergency unit, were taking part in the rescue operation, the ministry said.

During the afternoon, Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska flew in to survey the damage, taking a helicopter ride over the waterlogged town of Orihuela, some five kilometres south of Redovan, a spokesman said.

Footage broadcast on Spanish media showed emergency services personnel using a jet ski to inspect a flooded highway tunnel as rivers of brown water gushed down the streets, in some cases washing cars away.

'Very critical'

The regional airport in Almeria was closed for several hours on Friday with the floodwaters making it difficult for workers to reach it, forcing the cancellation of two flights and the diversion of two others to Malaga, Spanish airports operator AENA said.

The airport in Murcia was shut down for the day and 22 flights that had been due to land in Palma on the holiday island of Mallorca were diverted to other Spanish airports, it added.

In October 2018 torrential rain and flash floods killed 13 people in Mallorca.

Rail service was suspended on several routes in Valencia and Murcia, state-owned train operator Renfe said in a statement.

Authorities urged people in the area not to drive and stay home if possible.

"The situation remains very critical," Fernando Lopez Miras, head of the Murcia regional government, told Spanish public television TVE.

Schools were closed across the Valencia region on Friday, as well as in Murcia and parts of Andalusia, authorities said.

In Valencia alone, more than 689,000 students were affected, according to the regional government.

Three more people died as torrential rain and flash floods battered southeastern Spain, raising the death toll to five with the rising waters causing havoc for travellers and forcing 3,500 people from their homes, officials said Friday.

Three more people died as torrential rain and flash floods battered southeastern Spain, raising the death toll to five with the rising waters causing havoc for travellers and forcing 3,500 people from their homes, officials said Friday. The latest fatality was a man whose body was found in the area of Redovan, some 50 kilometres (30 miles) southwest of the city of Alicante, a spokeswoman for the emergency services said, without giving details. Earlier in the day, a 36-year-old man died in the Andalusia region after his car was swept away in the rushing waters, the local emergency services said. His empty car had been found earlier in the day. Also in the morning, a middle-aged man died in the coastal city of Almeria after his car got stuck in a tunnel that flooded within minutes, they said. City mayor Ramon Fernandez-Pacheco told Cadena Ser radio that police managed to save two other people who were also in the vehicle but were unable to save him. Two other people, a 61-year-old man and his sister, 51, died on Thursday when their vehicle was swept away as fast-moving waters swamped a road in Caudete, a municipality around 100 kilometres (60 miles) southwest of the port city of Valencia. Parts of southeastern Spain have since Wednesday suffered some of the heaviest rainfall on record, which has caused chaos on the roads, cutting public transport and prompting rivers to burst their banks, flooding homes. In Redovan, the floodwaters reached knee-height with residents working tirelessly to bail out the water with buckets, an AFP photographer said, while rescuers were using diggers and trucks to rescue other stranded locals. More than 3,500 people have been evacuated from their homes, the interior ministry said. Some 3,000 state security forces, including police, firefighters and soldiers from a military emergency unit, were taking part in the rescue operation, the ministry said. During the afternoon, Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska flew in to survey the damage, taking a helicopter ride over the waterlogged town of Orihuela, some five kilometres south of Redovan, a spokesman said. Footage broadcast on Spanish media showed emergency services personnel using a jet ski to inspect a flooded highway tunnel as rivers of brown water gushed down the streets, in some cases washing cars away. 'Very critical' The regional airport in Almeria was closed for several hours on Friday with the floodwaters making it difficult for workers to reach it, forcing the cancellation of two flights and the diversion of two others to Malaga, Spanish airports operator AENA said. The airport in Murcia was shut down for the day and 22 flights that had been due to land in Palma on the holiday island of Mallorca were diverted to other Spanish airports, it added. In October 2018 torrential rain and flash floods killed 13 people in Mallorca. Rail service was suspended on several routes in Valencia and Murcia, state-owned train operator Renfe said in a statement. Authorities urged people in the area not to drive and stay home if possible. "The situation remains very critical," Fernando Lopez Miras, head of the Murcia regional government, told Spanish public television TVE. Schools were closed across the Valencia region on Friday, as well as in Murcia and parts of Andalusia, authorities said. In Valencia alone, more than 689,000 students were affected, according to the regional government.

Death toll from Spain floods rises to five

Charities, government agencies and even cruise ships loaded with supplies and volunteers rushed emergency aid to the storm-ravaged <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dorian-kills-five-in-bahamas-us-evacuates-coast-247227">Bahamas</a> on Saturday amid fears of a "staggering" death toll left in the wake of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hurricane-dorian-skirts-us-carolinas-coast-with-high-winds-and-rain-248039">Hurricane Dorian</a>.

Bahama leaders believe hundreds and perhaps thousands remained missing in the archipelago nation of about 400,000 people, even as the official death toll rose only to 43 as of late on Friday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-continues-to-defend-incorrect-map-of-hurricane-dorian-path-247743">US&nbsp;President Donald Trump</a>'s&nbsp;administration requested airlift and logistical support from the Defense Department on Friday to support relief efforts for the Bahamas, the Miami Herald and other media reported.

The US&nbsp;Coast Guard and other agencies have already provided help with US Northern Command chief General Terrance O'Shaughnessy arriving in Nassau on Friday to assess the needs.

"We'll continue to beef up, we'll continue to collaborate with the government of the Bahamas," he told news reporters.

Hurricane Dorian, the most powerful hurricane on record to hit the Bahamas, parked itself over part of the archipelago for almost two days earlier this week, pummeling it with Category 5 winds, with some gusts topping 200 mph.

The most powerful hurricane on record to hit the Bahamas levelled some neighbourhoods, swallowed others with storm surges and caused what one official described as a "staggering" number of deaths.

Dorian also devastated parts of the Outer Banks Islands in North Carolina, on Friday and it continued to push northward along the US&nbsp;Atlantic coast early on Saturday.

It brought tropical-storm-force winds to southeastern Massachusetts and Nantucket Island and Martha's Vineyard on Saturday morning, according to an advisory from the Miami-based National Hurricane Center.

"Dorian's rain is just grazing New England," said Alex Lamers, a forecaster with the National Weather Service.

It is expected to make landfall in Canada's Nova Scotia province on Saturday night with winds of about 90 mph (150 kph) and leave up to 7 inches of rain before pushing further east as a weakened post-tropical storm by Sunday, the NHC said.

The Bahamas hade only a slight, 10 per cent, chance of rain Saturday that was not expected to hamper relief efforts as Bahamas Health Minister Duane Sands spoke of "a tremendous loss of life."

'Staggering number of dead feared'

The medical chief of staff at Princess Margaret Hospital in Nassau said two refrigerated, 40-foot trucks would be needed to hold the "staggering" number of bodies likely to be found.

"We've ordered lots of body bags," said Dr Caroline Burnett-Garraway.

The United Nations estimated 70,000 people were in "immediate need of life-saving assistance" such as food, water and shelter. The UN&nbsp;World Food Programme was airlifting storage units, generators, prefab offices, and satellite equipment as well as 8 metric tonnes of ready-to-eat meals.

The American Red Cross said it had committed an initial $2 million help the Bahamas recover from the hurricane, with food, water and shelter and other necessities.

"Our relief operation is growing, but we are also facing serious challenges in terms of delivering aid," Red Cross spokeswoman Jennifer Eli said. "Even search-and-rescue choppers haven't been able to reach some people because there's no place to land. These challenges are affecting everyone."

Near an area called The Mudd in Marsh Harbour, a commercial hub, a Reuters witness reported most houses levelled, the body of a man lying near the main street and dead dogs floating in the water. Some residents were leaving the area with meagre possessions, while others were determined to remain.

The US Coast Guard has rescued 295 people since Dorian began, the US Embassy in Nassau tweeted.

Relief groups were focusing on getting doctors, nurses and medical supplies into the hardest-hit areas and helping survivors get food and safe drinking water.

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. committed $1 million for hurricane relief and its ship Norwegian Breakaway left Miami on Thursday with supplies donated by the company and its employees, in addition to items collected by the City of Miami and various charities.

Celebrity chef José Andrés and members of his nonprofit, World Central Kitchen, we're on the ground in the Bahamas to aid hurricane survivors by preparing thousands of meals.

The risk of outbreaks of diarrhoea and waterborne diseases is high as drinking water may be tainted with sewage, according to the Pan American Health Organization, which described the situation for some people on Abaco island as "desperate."

Claudin Lauriston, 39, a Haitian carpenter, said he and his three young children were among the "lucky ones" to get on a plane out of Abaco. He said he had no documents with him but would try to get a job to support his family.

"There are too many dead bodies there. The government needs to remove everyone from the island, the smell is everywhere, it's in the water."

Charities, government agencies and even cruise ships loaded with supplies and volunteers rushed emergency aid to the storm-ravaged Bahamas on Saturday amid fears of a "staggering" death toll left in the wake of Hurricane Dorian.

Charities, government agencies and even cruise ships loaded with supplies and volunteers rushed emergency aid to the storm-ravaged Bahamas on Saturday amid fears of a "staggering" death toll left in the wake of Hurricane Dorian. Bahama leaders believe hundreds and perhaps thousands remained missing in the archipelago nation of about 400,000 people, even as the official death toll rose only to 43 as of late on Friday. US President Donald Trump's administration requested airlift and logistical support from the Defense Department on Friday to support relief efforts for the Bahamas, the Miami Herald and other media reported. The US Coast Guard and other agencies have already provided help with US Northern Command chief General Terrance O'Shaughnessy arriving in Nassau on Friday to assess the needs. "We'll continue to beef up, we'll continue to collaborate with the government of the Bahamas," he told news reporters. Hurricane Dorian, the most powerful hurricane on record to hit the Bahamas, parked itself over part of the archipelago for almost two days earlier this week, pummeling it with Category 5 winds, with some gusts topping 200 mph. The most powerful hurricane on record to hit the Bahamas levelled some neighbourhoods, swallowed others with storm surges and caused what one official described as a "staggering" number of deaths. Dorian also devastated parts of the Outer Banks Islands in North Carolina, on Friday and it continued to push northward along the US Atlantic coast early on Saturday. It brought tropical-storm-force winds to southeastern Massachusetts and Nantucket Island and Martha's Vineyard on Saturday morning, according to an advisory from the Miami-based National Hurricane Center. "Dorian's rain is just grazing New England," said Alex Lamers, a forecaster with the National Weather Service. It is expected to make landfall in Canada's Nova Scotia province on Saturday night with winds of about 90 mph (150 kph) and leave up to 7 inches of rain before pushing further east as a weakened post-tropical storm by Sunday, the NHC said. The Bahamas hade only a slight, 10 per cent, chance of rain Saturday that was not expected to hamper relief efforts as Bahamas Health Minister Duane Sands spoke of "a tremendous loss of life." 'Staggering number of dead feared' The medical chief of staff at Princess Margaret Hospital in Nassau said two refrigerated, 40-foot trucks would be needed to hold the "staggering" number of bodies likely to be found. "We've ordered lots of body bags," said Dr Caroline Burnett-Garraway. The United Nations estimated 70,000 people were in "immediate need of life-saving assistance" such as food, water and shelter. The UN World Food Programme was airlifting storage units, generators, prefab offices, and satellite equipment as well as 8 metric tonnes of ready-to-eat meals. The American Red Cross said it had committed an initial $2 million help the Bahamas recover from the hurricane, with food, water and shelter and other necessities. "Our relief operation is growing, but we are also facing serious challenges in terms of delivering aid," Red Cross spokeswoman Jennifer Eli said. "Even search-and-rescue choppers haven't been able to reach some people because there's no place to land. These challenges are affecting everyone." Near an area called The Mudd in Marsh Harbour, a commercial hub, a Reuters witness reported most houses levelled, the body of a man lying near the main street and dead dogs floating in the water. Some residents were leaving the area with meagre possessions, while others were determined to remain. The US Coast Guard has rescued 295 people since Dorian began, the US Embassy in Nassau tweeted. Relief groups were focusing on getting doctors, nurses and medical supplies into the hardest-hit areas and helping survivors get food and safe drinking water. Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. committed $1 million for hurricane relief and its ship Norwegian Breakaway left Miami on Thursday with supplies donated by the company and its employees, in addition to items collected by the City of Miami and various charities. Celebrity chef José Andrés and members of his nonprofit, World Central Kitchen, we're on the ground in the Bahamas to aid hurricane survivors by preparing thousands of meals. The risk of outbreaks of diarrhoea and waterborne diseases is high as drinking water may be tainted with sewage, according to the Pan American Health Organization, which described the situation for some people on Abaco island as "desperate." Claudin Lauriston, 39, a Haitian carpenter, said he and his three young children were among the "lucky ones" to get on a plane out of Abaco. He said he had no documents with him but would try to get a job to support his family. "There are too many dead bodies there. The government needs to remove everyone from the island, the smell is everywhere, it's in the water."

Relief efforts ramp up amid fear of 'staggering' death toll in storm ravaged Bahamas

Two people were confirmed dead on Wednesday as heavy rains pounded southwest Japan, prompting flood and landslide warnings, and orders for 670,000 people to seek safety.

The evacuation orders came after the Japan Meteorological Agency issued its highest-level alert for several parts of the northern Kyushu region.

The alert is issued "if there is a significant likelihood of catastrophes" and is activated once a disaster is declared, ordering people to take measures to protect their lives.

Nearly a million more people are under a lower-level evacuation advisory over the heavy rains.

Evacuation orders and advisories are issued by local authorities but are not mandatory even though officials urge residents to heed them.

The fire and disaster management agency said it had already received multiple reports of houses flooded in Saga prefecture and officials were working to confirm details of the damage.

"We are seeing unprecedented levels of heavy rains in cities where we issued special warnings," the Japan Meteorological Agency added in a hastily organised press conference Wednesday morning.

"It is a situation where you should do your best to protect your lives," weather agency official Yasushi Kajiwara said.

He also urged those currently facing evacuation advisories to act before the warning was upgraded further.

"Please don't wait," he said.

The JMA's emergency warnings affect areas in Saga, Fukuoka and Nagasaki in northern Kyushu, where the rains have already killed one person.

A Saga official confirmed to AFP a man was found dead in his car on Wednesday after being swept away by floodwaters.

The severe weather has also disrupted transport, with train services partially suspended in parts of northern Kyushu and some roads closed.

Footage on local television showed rivers swollen by rainwater and parked cars surrounded by muddy brown water rising nearly up to the vehicles' roofs.

In some parts of the affected area, small landslides have already been reported.

Inside Saga station, stranded passengers were sat on benches with water around their ankles.

Japanese authorities regularly urge people to take evacuation orders seriously, particularly after disastrous heavy rains last summer in Japan's west killed more than 200 people.

Many of the deaths were blamed on the fact that evacuation orders were issued too late and some people failed to follow them. Entire neighbourhoods were buried beneath landslides or submerged in floodwaters during the disasters.

Two people were confirmed dead on Wednesday as heavy rains pounded southwest Japan, prompting flood and landslide warnings, and orders for 670,000 people to seek safety.

Two people were confirmed dead on Wednesday as heavy rains pounded southwest Japan, prompting flood and landslide warnings, and orders for 670,000 people to seek safety. The evacuation orders came after the Japan Meteorological Agency issued its highest-level alert for several parts of the northern Kyushu region. The alert is issued "if there is a significant likelihood of catastrophes" and is activated once a disaster is declared, ordering people to take measures to protect their lives. Nearly a million more people are under a lower-level evacuation advisory over the heavy rains. Evacuation orders and advisories are issued by local authorities but are not mandatory even though officials urge residents to heed them. The fire and disaster management agency said it had already received multiple reports of houses flooded in Saga prefecture and officials were working to confirm details of the damage. "We are seeing unprecedented levels of heavy rains in cities where we issued special warnings," the Japan Meteorological Agency added in a hastily organised press conference Wednesday morning. "It is a situation where you should do your best to protect your lives," weather agency official Yasushi Kajiwara said. He also urged those currently facing evacuation advisories to act before the warning was upgraded further. "Please don't wait," he said. The JMA's emergency warnings affect areas in Saga, Fukuoka and Nagasaki in northern Kyushu, where the rains have already killed one person. A Saga official confirmed to AFP a man was found dead in his car on Wednesday after being swept away by floodwaters. The severe weather has also disrupted transport, with train services partially suspended in parts of northern Kyushu and some roads closed. Footage on local television showed rivers swollen by rainwater and parked cars surrounded by muddy brown water rising nearly up to the vehicles' roofs. In some parts of the affected area, small landslides have already been reported. Inside Saga station, stranded passengers were sat on benches with water around their ankles. Japanese authorities regularly urge people to take evacuation orders seriously, particularly after disastrous heavy rains last summer in Japan's west killed more than 200 people. Many of the deaths were blamed on the fact that evacuation orders were issued too late and some people failed to follow them. Entire neighbourhoods were buried beneath landslides or submerged in floodwaters during the disasters.

Life-threatening rains in south Japan kill two, emergency warning issued

A wildfire in the Canary Islands led to the evacuation of a small town in Gran Canaria island on Saturday, and officials said the blaze had a “great potential” to spread.

The wildfire started in the town of Valleseco, and an emergency area was also declared for the municipalities of Moya and Tejeda.

In the latter, most parts of the town of 1,900 inhabitants were evacuated for precautionary reasons and roads were closed, the regional government said.

Seven helicopters, as well as firefighters on the ground, were battling the blaze.

Tejeda was already evacuated last week when another wildfire affected the area.

A wildfire in the Canary Islands led to the evacuation of a small town in Gran Canaria island on Saturday, and officials said the blaze had a “great potential” to spread.

A wildfire in the Canary Islands led to the evacuation of a small town in Gran Canaria island on Saturday, and officials said the blaze had a “great potential” to spread. The wildfire started in the town of Valleseco, and an emergency area was also declared for the municipalities of Moya and Tejeda. In the latter, most parts of the town of 1,900 inhabitants were evacuated for precautionary reasons and roads were closed, the regional government said. Seven helicopters, as well as firefighters on the ground, were battling the blaze. Tejeda was already evacuated last week when another wildfire affected the area.

Wildfire prompts evacuations in Canary Islands

emergency

Emergency, News on Emergency, stories on Emergency, articles on Emergency, Emergency stories at Wion, Emergency news, Emergency latest news