Russia has said that the situation is tense as the flood waters continue to rise in the city of Orenburg and surrounding areas. Kremlin spokesperson Dimitri Peskov has warned that large amounts of water are coming to new regions.

Russia-Kazakhstan floods: Floodwaters continue to rise

Russia and Kazakhstan ordered more than 100,000 people to evacuate after swiftly melting snow swelled mighty rivers beyond bursting point in the worst flooding in the area for at least 70 years.

Russia-Kazakhstan floods: Region's worst floods in seven decades

Russia-Kazakhstan floods: Over 100,000 ordered to evacuate

<p>Thousands of people are being evacuated from the Russian Ural mountains in the Orenburg region after a section of a dam in the city of Orsk burst, reported the state media citing local officials, on Friday (Apr 5). This comes after rising waters in the Ural river flooded villages and reportedly caused a dam to burst.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Thousands evacuated, houses flooded</strong></h2>

<p>In a video message on the messaging app, Telegram, Orenburg Mayor Sergei Salmin said that the situation was “critical” and urged the residents of riverside settlements to evacuate immediately.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Don’t wait for the situation to become threatening! Leave! You need to evacuate as quickly as possible,” said Salmin, as quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>An emergency had been declared across the Orenburg region after levels in the Ural River rose to dangerous levels due to melting ice. According to the Orenburg mayor, 300 houses had already been flooded.</p>

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<p>The regional government told the Russian news agency TASS that residents of the city of Orsk, which is 276 kilometres east of Orenburg, are being evacuated as more than 4,200 homes and almost 11,000 people may be affected by rising flood water.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Residents of the Leninsky and Sovetsky districts of Orsk are being evacuated, said the regional prosecutor’s office.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Around 440 relief workers and 217 pieces of equipment were deployed to deal with the aftermath of the dam burst in Orsk, reported TASS citing the Russian emergencies ministry.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The mountain city of Orsk is home to 230,000 people. According to the state news agency, the evacuation in the old part of the city was underway after a protective dam collapsed near Orenburgskaya Street.&nbsp;</p>

<p>So far, 135 people, including 55 children, have been evacuated to temporary shelters set up, the Russian emergencies ministry told TASS.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>About the recent floods</strong></h2>

<p>A state of emergency has&nbsp;been declared in the Orenburg region, said the country’s emergencies ministry.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>The ministry personnel have&nbsp;helped 3,500 people affected by flooding nationwide in recent days, according to officials.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, a string of Russian Siberian and Urals mountain provinces, including the Orenburg region and neighbouring parts of Kazakhstan have witnessed floods in recent days.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Thousands of people are being evacuated from the Russian Ural mountains in the Orenburg region after a section of a dam in the city of Orsk burst, reported the state media citing local officials, on Friday (Apr 5).

Thousands of people are being evacuated from the Russian Ural mountains in the Orenburg region after a section of a dam in the city of Orsk burst, reported the state media citing local officials, on Friday (Apr 5). This comes after rising waters in the Ural river flooded villages and reportedly caused a dam to burst. Thousands evacuated, houses flooded In a video message on the messaging app, Telegram, Orenburg Mayor Sergei Salmin said that the situation was “critical” and urged the residents of riverside settlements to evacuate immediately. “Don’t wait for the situation to become threatening! Leave! You need to evacuate as quickly as possible,” said Salmin, as quoted by Reuters. An emergency had been declared across the Orenburg region after levels in the Ural River rose to dangerous levels due to melting ice. According to the Orenburg mayor, 300 houses had already been flooded. Also Read | Joe Biden inspects collapsed Baltimore Bridge, pledges help The regional government told the Russian news agency TASS that residents of the city of Orsk, which is 276 kilometres east of Orenburg, are being evacuated as more than 4,200 homes and almost 11,000 people may be affected by rising flood water. Residents of the Leninsky and Sovetsky districts of Orsk are being evacuated, said the regional prosecutor’s office. Around 440 relief workers and 217 pieces of equipment were deployed to deal with the aftermath of the dam burst in Orsk, reported TASS citing the Russian emergencies ministry. The mountain city of Orsk is home to 230,000 people. According to the state news agency, the evacuation in the old part of the city was underway after a protective dam collapsed near Orenburgskaya Street. So far, 135 people, including 55 children, have been evacuated to temporary shelters set up, the Russian emergencies ministry told TASS. About the recent floods A state of emergency has been declared in the Orenburg region, said the country’s emergencies ministry. Also Read | 4.0 magnitude aftershock recorded in New Jersey, little damage reported The ministry personnel have helped 3,500 people affected by flooding nationwide in recent days, according to officials. Notably, a string of Russian Siberian and Urals mountain provinces, including the Orenburg region and neighbouring parts of Kazakhstan have witnessed floods in recent days. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia: Thousands evacuated amid ‘critical’ flooding after dam breach in Urals

<p>More than 150 people have been rescued from floodwaters in the Australian state of New South Wales (NSW), said local officials on Saturday (Apr 6) after heavy rains sparked warnings for residents to move to higher ground. Meanwhile, a man was found dead in flood waters in outer western Sydney.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>More than 150 evacuated in NSW</strong></h2>

<p>At least 152 people have been evacuated after torrential rains caused flooding in parts of eastern Australia and triggered more than 100 flood warnings from southern Queensland to the NSW south coast.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Heavy rains lash Sydney, cause flooding; sparks evacuation warnings</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/heavy-rains-lash-sydney-cause-flooding-sparks-evacuation-warnings-708316/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Around 72 rescues were carried out in the NSW capital Sydney, reported Reuters citing authorities. The Australian city&nbsp;witnessed dangerous flooding in several low-lying suburbs after torrential rains pummelled the country’s southeast region, on Friday (Apr 5).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sydney received 4.4 inches of rainfall, nearly the amount it witnesses in a month, over the 24 hours to Friday morning, according to the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM). The heavy rains have since prompted warnings for people to avoid non-essential travel and stay indoors.</p>

<p>According to the NSW State Emergency Service, around 15 emergency evacuation orders were in place statewide, and it also fielded more than 4,100 calls for help in the 24 hours to 5:00 am (local time).</p>

<h2><strong>Flood waters continue to rise</strong></h2>

<p>Notably, while the NSW witnessed clear skies on Saturday, NSW Premier Chris Minns has warned the flood waters were still on the rise.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The emergency rain situation seems to be easing,” said Minns, adding that it is “important to note that flood levels in some of the rivers particularly in Western Sydney are continuing to rise”.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>He also praised 4000 volunteers who were assisting the state’s emergency services with rescues across the state after the storm system wreaked havoc overnight.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ausgrid, a Sydney-based electricity distribution company, said that it restored power to at least 37,000 customers overnight, with some 9,000 still without power across NSW.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Man’s body found</strong></h2>

<p>A man’s body was found in flood waters in outer western Sydney by a passerby on Saturday morning, reported the Australian Associated Press. The body was found near a Penrith reserve before the emergency services were called to the scene at about 7:45 am (local time).&nbsp;</p>

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<p>A statement by the police said that the man had not yet been formally identified and the cause of the death was unknown. However, the officers have established a crime scene, and an investigation into the death is underway.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The man’s death would be the second one linked to the weather system which has hit parts of eastern Australia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Thursday (Apr 4), the body of a 71-year-old man was found in a flooded creek southwest of Brisbane.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


More than 150 people have been rescued from floodwaters in the Australian state of New South Wales (NSW), said local officials on Saturday (Apr 6) after heavy rains sparked warnings for residents to move to higher ground.

More than 150 people have been rescued from floodwaters in the Australian state of New South Wales (NSW), said local officials on Saturday (Apr 6) after heavy rains sparked warnings for residents to move to higher ground. Meanwhile, a man was found dead in flood waters in outer western Sydney. More than 150 evacuated in NSW At least 152 people have been evacuated after torrential rains caused flooding in parts of eastern Australia and triggered more than 100 flood warnings from southern Queensland to the NSW south coast. WATCH | Heavy rains lash Sydney, cause flooding; sparks evacuation warnings Around 72 rescues were carried out in the NSW capital Sydney, reported Reuters citing authorities. The Australian city witnessed dangerous flooding in several low-lying suburbs after torrential rains pummelled the country’s southeast region, on Friday (Apr 5). Sydney received 4.4 inches of rainfall, nearly the amount it witnesses in a month, over the 24 hours to Friday morning, according to the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM). The heavy rains have since prompted warnings for people to avoid non-essential travel and stay indoors. According to the NSW State Emergency Service, around 15 emergency evacuation orders were in place statewide, and it also fielded more than 4,100 calls for help in the 24 hours to 5:00 am (local time). Flood waters continue to rise Notably, while the NSW witnessed clear skies on Saturday, NSW Premier Chris Minns has warned the flood waters were still on the rise. “The emergency rain situation seems to be easing,” said Minns, adding that it is “important to note that flood levels in some of the rivers particularly in Western Sydney are continuing to rise”. Also Read | Russia: Thousands evacuated amid ‘critical’ flooding after dam breach in Urals He also praised 4000 volunteers who were assisting the state’s emergency services with rescues across the state after the storm system wreaked havoc overnight. Ausgrid, a Sydney-based electricity distribution company, said that it restored power to at least 37,000 customers overnight, with some 9,000 still without power across NSW. Man’s body found A man’s body was found in flood waters in outer western Sydney by a passerby on Saturday morning, reported the Australian Associated Press. The body was found near a Penrith reserve before the emergency services were called to the scene at about 7:45 am (local time). Also Read | Mexico suspends relations with Ecuador after arrest of ex-VP A statement by the police said that the man had not yet been formally identified and the cause of the death was unknown. However, the officers have established a crime scene, and an investigation into the death is underway. The man’s death would be the second one linked to the weather system which has hit parts of eastern Australia. On Thursday (Apr 4), the body of a 71-year-old man was found in a flooded creek southwest of Brisbane. (With inputs from agencies)

NSW floods: Man’s body found in Sydney; more than 150 rescued as water continues to rise

<p>Passengers boarding a flight bound for Orlando were evacuated due to the detection of a ‘strong odour’ on the airplane.</p>

<p>According to a report in Fox Business, the episode occurred during the departure preparations of Frontier Airlines' Flight 1759 at Charlotte Douglas International Airport on Wednesday (March 27) night.</p>

<p>A video which is making rounds on social media shows passengers getting off from the plane - an Airbus A321neo – using emergency slides at Charlotte Douglas airport.</p>

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<p>The flight, which accommodated 226 passengers, saw them disembark using both the jet bridge and evacuation slides. Fire trucks and ambulances were also spotted at the scene.</p>

<p>As per the reports, one passenger was injured while going down the slide, and was taken to hospital.</p>

<p>On Wednesday evening the Flight 1759 was in the boarding process at Charlotte Douglas International Airport, when a strange odour was detected throughout the airplane. As a preventative measure, the captain issued an evacuation notice," Frontier Airlines told Fox Business.</p>

<p>"Passengers exited the aircraft using both the evacuation slides and jet bridge. As per the initial reports no visible smoke or fire was observed," the airline added.</p>

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<p>The airline later apologised to the passengers and said it is looking into the cause of the incident.</p>

<p>One passenger told Queen City News that they first smelled an odour on board the plane before the lights went off.</p>

<p>The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) told Fox Business that the crew reported the smell of smoke in the cabin and it will&nbsp;investigate&nbsp;the incident.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Passengers boarding a flight bound for Orlando were evacuated due to the detection of a ‘strong odour’ on the airplane. According to a report in Fox Business, the episode occurred during the departure preparations of Frontier Airlines' Flight 1759 at Charlotte Douglas International Airport on Wednesday (March 27) night.

Passengers boarding a flight bound for Orlando were evacuated due to the detection of a ‘strong odour’ on the airplane. According to a report in Fox Business, the episode occurred during the departure preparations of Frontier Airlines' Flight 1759 at Charlotte Douglas International Airport on Wednesday (March 27) night. A video which is making rounds on social media shows passengers getting off from the plane - an Airbus A321neo – using emergency slides at Charlotte Douglas airport. Also read: NASA rockets to probe Earth's upper atmosphere during Solar Eclipse 2024 The flight, which accommodated 226 passengers, saw them disembark using both the jet bridge and evacuation slides. Fire trucks and ambulances were also spotted at the scene. As per the reports, one passenger was injured while going down the slide, and was taken to hospital. On Wednesday evening the Flight 1759 was in the boarding process at Charlotte Douglas International Airport, when a strange odour was detected throughout the airplane. As a preventative measure, the captain issued an evacuation notice," Frontier Airlines told Fox Business. "Passengers exited the aircraft using both the evacuation slides and jet bridge. As per the initial reports no visible smoke or fire was observed," the airline added. Also read: LinkedIn to roll out TikTok-like video feed despite concerns of distraction The airline later apologised to the passengers and said it is looking into the cause of the incident. One passenger told Queen City News that they first smelled an odour on board the plane before the lights went off. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) told Fox Business that the crew reported the smell of smoke in the cabin and it will investigate the incident. (With inputs from agencies)

Passengers evacuate Frontier airlines' flight due to 'strong odour'

<p>A highly anticipated lift-off of a Russian Soyuz spacecraft was successful as it launched&nbsp;three astronauts — one male and two females — to the International Space Station (ISS) on Saturday (Mar 22). This comes after the lift-off was dramatically halted just seconds before its scheduled departure on Thursday (Mar 21).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The spacecraft carried NASA astronaut Tracy Dyson, Marina Vasilevskaya of Belarus, and Russian Oleg Novitsky. The launch took place from the Baikonur launch facility in Kazakhstan.</p>

<p>Following eight minutes, the space capsule detached from the rocket and entered its orbit. This initiated a two-day, 34-orbit journey towards the ISS. The docking procedure with the ISS is now scheduled to take place at 1510 GMT on Monday (Mar 25).</p>

<p>Earlier, on March 21, the mission control amidst the anticipation, announced "Launch!" in Russian. However, soon after, an unexpected message of "automatic cancellation of the launch" echoed through the live stream. The crew, comprising a Russian, an American, and a Belarusian were safely evacuated.</p>

<p>The sudden termination was attributed to a rare occurrence - a fluctuation in the current of a chemical power source, as disclosed by Roscosmos, the Russian space agency.</p>

<p>Space chief Yuri Borisov, had stated, "Colleagues, space is like this and the situation is quite understandable." Now, the mission is scheduled for a launch attempt on Saturday (Mar 23).</p>

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<p>The mission is aimed to contribute to vital research for future space exploration endeavours.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>The Soyuz spacecraft carries a crew of three astronauts. It has been used extensively for missions to the International Space Station (ISS), ferrying astronauts and cosmonauts to and from the orbiting laboratory.</p>

<p>The inaugural Soyuz flight took place on November 28, 1966.</p>

<p>However, tragedy struck during the first crewed Soyuz mission, Soyuz 1, which launched on April 23, 1967.</p>

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<p>Unfortunately, the mission ended in disaster due to a parachute failure and cosmonaut Vladimir Komarov&nbsp;was killed.</p>

<p>Launched atop a Soyuz rocket from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan, the Soyuz spacecraft was the sole method for transporting crews to and from the International Space Station (ISS) between the retirement of the Space Shuttle in 2011 and the demonstration flight of SpaceX Crew Dragon in 2020.</p>

<p>Throughout this period, the Soyuz was extensively used for ISS crew transportation. Although China conducted crewed Shenzhou flights during this timeframe, none of them included docking manoeuvres with the ISS.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A highly anticipated lift-off of a Russian Soyuz spacecraft was successful as it launched three astronauts — one male and two females — to the International Space Station (ISS) on Saturday (Mar 22).

A highly anticipated lift-off of a Russian Soyuz spacecraft was successful as it launched three astronauts — one male and two females — to the International Space Station (ISS) on Saturday (Mar 22). This comes after the lift-off was dramatically halted just seconds before its scheduled departure on Thursday (Mar 21). The spacecraft carried NASA astronaut Tracy Dyson, Marina Vasilevskaya of Belarus, and Russian Oleg Novitsky. The launch took place from the Baikonur launch facility in Kazakhstan. Following eight minutes, the space capsule detached from the rocket and entered its orbit. This initiated a two-day, 34-orbit journey towards the ISS. The docking procedure with the ISS is now scheduled to take place at 1510 GMT on Monday (Mar 25). Earlier, on March 21, the mission control amidst the anticipation, announced "Launch!" in Russian. However, soon after, an unexpected message of "automatic cancellation of the launch" echoed through the live stream. The crew, comprising a Russian, an American, and a Belarusian were safely evacuated. The sudden termination was attributed to a rare occurrence - a fluctuation in the current of a chemical power source, as disclosed by Roscosmos, the Russian space agency. Space chief Yuri Borisov, had stated, "Colleagues, space is like this and the situation is quite understandable." Now, the mission is scheduled for a launch attempt on Saturday (Mar 23). Also Read | Scientists are developing 'flavoured lollipops' to detect mouth cancer The mission is aimed to contribute to vital research for future space exploration endeavours. Also Read | Rare star explosion to occur in the night sky that can be seen with the naked eye The Soyuz spacecraft carries a crew of three astronauts. It has been used extensively for missions to the International Space Station (ISS), ferrying astronauts and cosmonauts to and from the orbiting laboratory. The inaugural Soyuz flight took place on November 28, 1966. However, tragedy struck during the first crewed Soyuz mission, Soyuz 1, which launched on April 23, 1967. Watch | Terror attack in Moscow: ISIS claims Moscow attack × Unfortunately, the mission ended in disaster due to a parachute failure and cosmonaut Vladimir Komarov was killed. Launched atop a Soyuz rocket from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan, the Soyuz spacecraft was the sole method for transporting crews to and from the International Space Station (ISS) between the retirement of the Space Shuttle in 2011 and the demonstration flight of SpaceX Crew Dragon in 2020. Throughout this period, the Soyuz was extensively used for ISS crew transportation. Although China conducted crewed Shenzhou flights during this timeframe, none of them included docking manoeuvres with the ISS. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian Soyuz spacecraft lifts off with three astronauts to ISS

<p>Tens of thousands of residents were asked to evacuate as firefighters in Australia continued to battle a massive bushfire amid an intense heatwave that authorities said could further spread the blaze in Victoria as it faces the worst fire conditions seen in recent years.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Thousands urged to evacuate</strong></h2>

<p>More than 30,000 residents were urged to evacuate their homes by Wednesday (Feb 28) morning after officials identified a potential fire impact zone that covers several rural towns.</p>

<p>The authorities in the Australian state issued an emergency warning for a grass fire located at Kleins Road, Dereel, on Wednesday evening asking residents to “Leave Immediately” in a post on X.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Victoria emergency services, in an update, said strong winds have the potential to make fire fighting difficult and asked residents not to wait “until the bushfire spreads closer before moving to a safer location.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>It added, “The fire could grow significantly and may become uncontrollable.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>As of 4:09 pm (local time) towns of Bayindeen, Ben Nevis, Chute, Elmhurst, Eversley, Glenlogie, Mount Cole, Mount Lonarch, and Raglan were declared “not safe to return”.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Situation in Victoria</strong></h2>

<p>“Today will be a very challenging day for firefighters,” Jason Heffernan, chief officer at Victoria fire department told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). He added, “Today is one of those days when communities may need to take immediate action at very short notice.”</p>

<p>Hundreds of firefighters continued to battle a massive blaze near the city of Ballarat. So far, the blaze which has been burning since last Thursday (Feb 22) has destroyed six houses, killed livestock, and burned more than 200 square kilometres.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Catastrophic conditions'</strong></h2>

<p>According to Australia’s Bureau of Meteorology (BoM), hot, dry, and windy conditions have worsened creating “extreme to catastrophic fire dangers” in parts of Victoria and South Australia. Several thunderstorms are also forecast in the region which would lead to dry lightning.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Victoria fire department chief warned that dry lightning could spark new fires while strong winds forecast could spread the existing one near Ballarat and urged people to reconsider any decision to stay back to protect their homes.</p>

<p>Catastrophic conditions have been forecast for Victoria’s Wimmera region as half of the state was placed under an extreme fire danger rating.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>“Extreme fire dangers are coming to fruition, and in fact we’re currently seeing catastrophic conditions in Casterdon, Hamilton and Kanagulk in the Wimmera weather district,” said Heffernan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Victorian State Control Centre spokesperson, Luke Hegarty, told the ABC that authorities were on high alert, late Wednesday afternoon as cloud cover lifted, temperatures rose and winds picked up speed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Temperatures spiked across several towns in Victoria, on Wednesday afternoon. Walpeup, in north-west Victoria, hit 43.5 degrees Celsius and Hopetoun, 400 kilometres north-west of Melbourne, reached 42.6 degrees Celsius, according to the BoM.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Tens of thousands of residents were asked to evacuate as firefighters in Australia continued to battle a massive bushfire amid an intense heatwave that authorities said could further spread the blaze in Victoria as it faces the worst fire conditions seen in recent years.

Tens of thousands of residents were asked to evacuate as firefighters in Australia continued to battle a massive bushfire amid an intense heatwave that authorities said could further spread the blaze in Victoria as it faces the worst fire conditions seen in recent years. Thousands urged to evacuate More than 30,000 residents were urged to evacuate their homes by Wednesday (Feb 28) morning after officials identified a potential fire impact zone that covers several rural towns. The authorities in the Australian state issued an emergency warning for a grass fire located at Kleins Road, Dereel, on Wednesday evening asking residents to “Leave Immediately” in a post on X. Also Read | Wildfires in Texas: Immediate evacuation ordered, operations at nuclear weapons facility halted Victoria emergency services, in an update, said strong winds have the potential to make fire fighting difficult and asked residents not to wait “until the bushfire spreads closer before moving to a safer location.” It added, “The fire could grow significantly and may become uncontrollable.” As of 4:09 pm (local time) towns of Bayindeen, Ben Nevis, Chute, Elmhurst, Eversley, Glenlogie, Mount Cole, Mount Lonarch, and Raglan were declared “not safe to return”. Situation in Victoria “Today will be a very challenging day for firefighters,” Jason Heffernan, chief officer at Victoria fire department told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). He added, “Today is one of those days when communities may need to take immediate action at very short notice.” Hundreds of firefighters continued to battle a massive blaze near the city of Ballarat. So far, the blaze which has been burning since last Thursday (Feb 22) has destroyed six houses, killed livestock, and burned more than 200 square kilometres. 'Catastrophic conditions' According to Australia’s Bureau of Meteorology (BoM), hot, dry, and windy conditions have worsened creating “extreme to catastrophic fire dangers” in parts of Victoria and South Australia. Several thunderstorms are also forecast in the region which would lead to dry lightning. The Victoria fire department chief warned that dry lightning could spark new fires while strong winds forecast could spread the existing one near Ballarat and urged people to reconsider any decision to stay back to protect their homes. Catastrophic conditions have been forecast for Victoria’s Wimmera region as half of the state was placed under an extreme fire danger rating. Also Read | Popocatepetl volcano spews ash, nearly two dozen Mexico City flights cancelled “Extreme fire dangers are coming to fruition, and in fact we’re currently seeing catastrophic conditions in Casterdon, Hamilton and Kanagulk in the Wimmera weather district,” said Heffernan. Victorian State Control Centre spokesperson, Luke Hegarty, told the ABC that authorities were on high alert, late Wednesday afternoon as cloud cover lifted, temperatures rose and winds picked up speed. Temperatures spiked across several towns in Victoria, on Wednesday afternoon. Walpeup, in north-west Victoria, hit 43.5 degrees Celsius and Hopetoun, 400 kilometres north-west of Melbourne, reached 42.6 degrees Celsius, according to the BoM. (With inputs from agencies)

Australia: More than 30,000 people urged to evacuate amid fire risk, ‘catastrophic’ conditions

Fuelled by unusually warm weather, a massive wildfire in Texas has ravaged over 250,000 acres, prompting widespread evacuations and road closures. Footage showed Greenville firefighters driving through wildfires as thick smoke engulfed the area. The Smokehouse Creek fire, now the largest among multiple wildfires in northern Texas, has rapidly expanded since it ignited on Monday afternoon.

Wildfires in Texas ravage over 250,000 acres, prompt evacuation orders

<p>The rapidly spreading wildfires in Texas, United States on Tuesday (Feb 27) forced the authorities to give immediate evacuation orders in small towns and close down a nuclear facility as dry grass, warm temperatures and strong winds fuelled the fire in the state's rural area of Panhandle.</p>

<p>As per the Texas A&amp;M Forest Service, Republican Governor Greg Abbott issued a disaster declaration for nearly 60 counties as more than 400 square miles (1,040 square kilometres) were destroyed in the wildfires.</p>

<p>“Texans are urged to limit activities that could create sparks and take precautions to keep their loved ones safe,” said Abbott.</p>

<p>The wildfire, which is called the Smokehouse Creek Fire, closed highways and was not contained even a bit by Tuesday afternoon (Feb 27), as per the Forest Service.</p>

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<p>The nuclear arsenal facility, which assembles and disassembles parts, closed its operations after a fire went out of control near it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The fire near Pantex is not contained. Response efforts have shifted to evacuations. There is a small number of non-essential personnel sheltered on-site," said the company.</p>

<p>Later in the day, Pantex said it was "open for normal day shift operations" on Wednesday after a pause in Texas.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Texas A&amp;M Forest Service reported that 25 of 31 fires in the state were under control.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'We have seen tragedy today', Sheriffs react to maddening wildfire</strong></h2>

<p>The wildfires prompted evacuation across Hemphill and Hutchinson counties near the Oklahoma border.</p>

<p>In a Facebook post, the city of Fritch issued a warning to the residents to "EVACUATE NOW," adding that the flames have reached the road.</p>

<p>Speaking to CNN, National Weather Service Amarillo Meteorologist Christian Rangel said that the blazes "still have enough fuel to keep going".</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Australian PM pledges support as wildfires destroy homes, force evacuations</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/australian-pm-pledges-support-as-wildfires-destroy-homes-force-evacuations-693961/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>“We have had a high wind and fire event go through ... (and) right now at our office, we are getting gusts up to 35 mph,” Rangel added, further stating that the winds have changed directions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a Facebook post, the Moore County Sheriff's Office said, "We have seen tragedy today and we have seen miracles. Today was a historic event we hope never happens again. The panhandle needs prayers."</p>

<p>More than 200 people have taken shelter in a church in Fritch, Texas after they were forced to flee from their homes because of raging wildfires, said church leaders.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The rapidly spreading wildfires in Texas, United States on Tuesday (Feb 27) forced the authorities to give immediate evacuation orders in small towns and close down a nuclear facility as dry grass, warm temperatures and strong winds fuelled the fire in the state's rural area of Panhandle.

The rapidly spreading wildfires in Texas, United States on Tuesday (Feb 27) forced the authorities to give immediate evacuation orders in small towns and close down a nuclear facility as dry grass, warm temperatures and strong winds fuelled the fire in the state's rural area of Panhandle. As per the Texas A&M Forest Service, Republican Governor Greg Abbott issued a disaster declaration for nearly 60 counties as more than 400 square miles (1,040 square kilometres) were destroyed in the wildfires. “Texans are urged to limit activities that could create sparks and take precautions to keep their loved ones safe,” said Abbott. The wildfire, which is called the Smokehouse Creek Fire, closed highways and was not contained even a bit by Tuesday afternoon (Feb 27), as per the Forest Service. Also Read: Chile: At least 112 killed as wildfires continue to rage; president warns toll expected to rise The nuclear arsenal facility, which assembles and disassembles parts, closed its operations after a fire went out of control near it. “The fire near Pantex is not contained. Response efforts have shifted to evacuations. There is a small number of non-essential personnel sheltered on-site," said the company. Later in the day, Pantex said it was "open for normal day shift operations" on Wednesday after a pause in Texas. Meanwhile, the Texas A&M Forest Service reported that 25 of 31 fires in the state were under control. 'We have seen tragedy today', Sheriffs react to maddening wildfire The wildfires prompted evacuation across Hemphill and Hutchinson counties near the Oklahoma border. In a Facebook post, the city of Fritch issued a warning to the residents to "EVACUATE NOW," adding that the flames have reached the road. Speaking to CNN, National Weather Service Amarillo Meteorologist Christian Rangel said that the blazes "still have enough fuel to keep going". Watch: Australian PM pledges support as wildfires destroy homes, force evacuations “We have had a high wind and fire event go through ... (and) right now at our office, we are getting gusts up to 35 mph,” Rangel added, further stating that the winds have changed directions. In a Facebook post, the Moore County Sheriff's Office said, "We have seen tragedy today and we have seen miracles. Today was a historic event we hope never happens again. The panhandle needs prayers." More than 200 people have taken shelter in a church in Fritch, Texas after they were forced to flee from their homes because of raging wildfires, said church leaders. (With inputs from agencies)

Wildfires in Texas: Immediate evacuation ordered, operations at nuclear weapons facility halted

<p>Officials in the southern Russian city of Voronezh declared a state of emergency after a Ukrainian drone attack wounded two children. Meanwhile, authorities in the Ukrainian northeast region of Kharkiv ordered the evacuation of more than two dozen villages near the front line amid a rise in attacks by Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Two children injured in Russia’s Voronezh</strong></h2>

<p>A Ukrainian drone attack wounded a six-year-old boy and a young girl, said the local officials, on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Yelena Fedyainova, whose six-year-old boy was injured in one of the attacks, said the drones first struck at about 2:30 am (local time). She also said that the attack blew the window of her apartment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The was a blow and a flash,” Fedyainova told reporters, as quoted by Reuters. “I grabbed the child - there were shards everywhere and smoke.” The local officials reported that another girl who was around 10 years old was also injured.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-moscow-says-one-killed-in-city-of-belgorod-after-another-attack-675995">Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow says one killed in city of Belgorod in Ukrainian strikes</a></strong></p>

<p>The Russian defence ministry said five Ukrainian drones were destroyed by air defences over the Voronezh region and three more were intercepted. Additionally, Moscow also claimed to have downed four more drones over the Belgorod region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Mayor of the Russian city Vadim Kstenin, said a state of emergency had been declared to deal with the impact of the attack. Voronezh is home to more than one million people and is around 250 kilometres away from the Ukrainian border.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Russian city is also located near an air base which reportedly holds some of the country’s Sukhoi Su-34 bombers. Russian news outlet Shot reported on Telegram that at least 15 blasts were heard near the air base.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Three injured in Ukrainian town of New York</strong></h2>

<p>At least three people were injured after a Russian-guided bomb hit the eastern Ukrainian town of New York, on Tuesday (Jan 16). “Three people are currently known to be wounded. Five more are probably under the rubble,” said Ukraine’s interior ministry.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-has-become-stronger-zelensky-vows-to-unleash-wrath-against-russia-in-2024-675416">'Ukraine has become stronger': Zelensky vows to unleash 'wrath' against Russia in 2024</a></strong></p>

<p>Ukrainian officials also reported that six three-storey buildings and five private houses were destroyed due to the attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A report by AFP citing photos published by the ministry said rescuers were seen combing through the rubble of what appeared to be the collapsed section of an apartment block overnight.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine orders evacuations</strong></h2>

<p>Officials in Ukraine’s Kharkiv region have urged residents of more than two dozen villages near the front line to evacuate, on Tuesday (Jan 16). The evacuations are set to affect more than 3,000 people, including nearly 300 children.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-unleashes-40-missiles-in-overnight-assault-ukraines-military-production-complex-hit-679628">Russia unleashes 40 missiles in overnight assault; Ukraine’s military production complex hit</a></strong></p>

<p>“Given the security situation, we are introducing mandatory evacuation of the population from the Kindrashivska and Kurylivska communities of the Kupyansk district,” said Kharkiv regional Governor Oleg Synegubov, in a post on social media.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The evacuation order comes as Russian forces have been pushing to capture the regional hub of Kupiansk, an important railway junction, which was home to around 30,000 people before the war began.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)<br />
<br />
<strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>


Officials in the southern Russian city of Voronezh declared a state of emergency after a Ukrainian drone attack wounded two children. Meanwhile, authorities in the Ukrainian northeast region of Kharkiv ordered the evacuation of more than two dozen villages near the front line amid a rise in attacks by Russia.

Officials in the southern Russian city of Voronezh declared a state of emergency after a Ukrainian drone attack wounded two children. Meanwhile, authorities in the Ukrainian northeast region of Kharkiv ordered the evacuation of more than two dozen villages near the front line amid a rise in attacks by Russia. Two children injured in Russia’s Voronezh A Ukrainian drone attack wounded a six-year-old boy and a young girl, said the local officials, on Tuesday. Yelena Fedyainova, whose six-year-old boy was injured in one of the attacks, said the drones first struck at about 2:30 am (local time). She also said that the attack blew the window of her apartment. “The was a blow and a flash,” Fedyainova told reporters, as quoted by Reuters. “I grabbed the child - there were shards everywhere and smoke.” The local officials reported that another girl who was around 10 years old was also injured. ALSO READ | Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow says one killed in city of Belgorod in Ukrainian strikes The Russian defence ministry said five Ukrainian drones were destroyed by air defences over the Voronezh region and three more were intercepted. Additionally, Moscow also claimed to have downed four more drones over the Belgorod region. The Mayor of the Russian city Vadim Kstenin, said a state of emergency had been declared to deal with the impact of the attack. Voronezh is home to more than one million people and is around 250 kilometres away from the Ukrainian border. The Russian city is also located near an air base which reportedly holds some of the country’s Sukhoi Su-34 bombers. Russian news outlet Shot reported on Telegram that at least 15 blasts were heard near the air base. Three injured in Ukrainian town of New York At least three people were injured after a Russian-guided bomb hit the eastern Ukrainian town of New York, on Tuesday (Jan 16). “Three people are currently known to be wounded. Five more are probably under the rubble,” said Ukraine’s interior ministry. ALSO READ | 'Ukraine has become stronger': Zelensky vows to unleash 'wrath' against Russia in 2024 Ukrainian officials also reported that six three-storey buildings and five private houses were destroyed due to the attack. A report by AFP citing photos published by the ministry said rescuers were seen combing through the rubble of what appeared to be the collapsed section of an apartment block overnight. Ukraine orders evacuations Officials in Ukraine’s Kharkiv region have urged residents of more than two dozen villages near the front line to evacuate, on Tuesday (Jan 16). The evacuations are set to affect more than 3,000 people, including nearly 300 children. ALSO READ | Russia unleashes 40 missiles in overnight assault; Ukraine’s military production complex hit “Given the security situation, we are introducing mandatory evacuation of the population from the Kindrashivska and Kurylivska communities of the Kupyansk district,” said Kharkiv regional Governor Oleg Synegubov, in a post on social media. The evacuation order comes as Russian forces have been pushing to capture the regional hub of Kupiansk, an important railway junction, which was home to around 30,000 people before the war began. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Russia’s Voronezh declares state of emergency as Ukraine drone attack injures two children

<p lang="en-US">To all those who watched a Japan Airlines plane turn into a fireball within minutes at Tokyo's Haneda airport, it appeared extremely miraculous to believe that all on board emerged unhurt and alive. Even though, tragically, five out of six crew members on the Japan Coast Guard Dash 8 plane with which the flight had collided while landing on Tuesday (Jan 2) died, all the 379 passengers as well as crew members on board the Airbus A350 were able to survive.<br />
<br />
Even as investigations are being carried out into how the JAL plane erupted into a fireball, experts said that the flawless evacuation was a combination of the rigorous safety culture of Japan Airlines and modern safety standards.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>How did&nbsp;passengers have a safe evacuation?</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">In compliance with the instructions of the flight crew, the passengers dashed towards the emergency exits of the burning jet of Japan Airlines jet, while leaving their hand luggage behind.<br />
<br />
When the incident took place, only three inflatable slides were used for evacuating the passengers, however, they were not deployed properly because of how the plane landed. The slide was very steep which may have been dangerous.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/horrific-video-shows-chaos-inside-japan-flight-after-it-catches-fire-passengers-recall-miracle-escape-676030">Horrific video shows chaos inside Japan flight on fire. Passengers recall 'miracle’ escape</a></p>

<p lang="en-US">The announcement system of the aircraft also malfunctioned amid the evacuation so the crew members were forced to convey instructions by shouting and using a megaphone, said Japan Airlines.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>What was the key aspect of evacuation?</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">As per the aviation experts, the simple step of leaving their valuables behind becomes a "major factor" which accelerates the speed of the evacuation. This was one such historic evacuation where the step proved very fruitful as the last person escaped moments before the entire aircraft was engulfed in flames on the runway of Tokyo's Haneda Airport on Tuesday (Jan 2).<br />
<br />
Speaking to the BBC, the industry professionals and aviation experts said that this was the result of the rigorous training that the staff had undergone as well as "well-behaved" passengers who actually followed the protocols.<br />
<br />
Director of the fire safety engineering group at the University of Greenwich in London Prof Ed Galea said, "I don't see a single passenger on the ground, in any of the videos I've seen, that has got their luggage with them… If people tried to take their cabin luggage, that's really dangerous because they would slow down the evacuation.”</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>How much time should the crew take to evacuate in such situations?</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">Speaking to NBC News, aviation expert John Cox said that the Japan Airlines flight was an Airbus A350 which had a capacity of 380 passengers. He stated that in an emergency situation like this, "you want to get them out within 90 seconds."<br />
<br />
Cox appreciated how the crew made it possible to get everybody off the plane at the right time and also praised the passengers who actually followed their instructions.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Japan: Probe underway in Japan plane collision; 5 killed in Coast Guard aircraft</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-probe-underway-in-japan-plane-collision-5-killed-in-coast-guard-aircraft-676056/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p lang="en-US">"This is the way you do it. You follow the instructions, go to the exit you get on the slide and you get away from the aircraft and that’s what happened here. And that’s why it was so successful,” he said.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>What kind of training is provided to crew members?</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">A former attendant Japan Airlines flight, while speaking to the BBC, said the fact that passengers landed safely at Haneda airport was "incredibly fortunate". The airline had stated that in the end only one passenger&nbsp;had sustained bruises, while 13 others had requested medical consultations because of physical discomfort.<br />
<br />
"I felt relieved to find out that all the passengers were safe. But when I started thinking about the emergency evacuation procedure, I suddenly felt nervous and fearful. Depending on how the two planes collided and how the fire spread, it could have been a lot worse,” said the former flight attendant said.<br />
<br />
As per the former attendant, all new crew members go through stringent evacuation and rescue training for nearly three weeks before they are permitted to serve on commercial flights. The training – which also teaches how to control the tone and volume of the voice so that the passengers can clearly hear you – is also repeated every year.<br />
<br />
"We go through a written exam, case study discussions and practical training using different scenarios, such as when the plane has to make a water landing or if there is fire on board. Maintenance staff are also involved in such training," added the former flight attendant, who worked for the airline 10 years ago.<br />
<br />
Also, all aircraft manufacturers need to prove that everyone aboard is able to evacuate the plane within 90 seconds from the planes so as to get internationally recognised.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


To all those who watched a Japan Airlines plane turn into a fireball within minutes at Tokyo's Haneda airport, it appeared extremely miraculous to believe that all on board emerged unhurt and alive.

To all those who watched a Japan Airlines plane turn into a fireball within minutes at Tokyo's Haneda airport, it appeared extremely miraculous to believe that all on board emerged unhurt and alive. Even though, tragically, five out of six crew members on the Japan Coast Guard Dash 8 plane with which the flight had collided while landing on Tuesday (Jan 2) died, all the 379 passengers as well as crew members on board the Airbus A350 were able to survive. Even as investigations are being carried out into how the JAL plane erupted into a fireball, experts said that the flawless evacuation was a combination of the rigorous safety culture of Japan Airlines and modern safety standards. How did passengers have a safe evacuation? In compliance with the instructions of the flight crew, the passengers dashed towards the emergency exits of the burning jet of Japan Airlines jet, while leaving their hand luggage behind. When the incident took place, only three inflatable slides were used for evacuating the passengers, however, they were not deployed properly because of how the plane landed. The slide was very steep which may have been dangerous. Also read: Horrific video shows chaos inside Japan flight on fire. Passengers recall 'miracle’ escape The announcement system of the aircraft also malfunctioned amid the evacuation so the crew members were forced to convey instructions by shouting and using a megaphone, said Japan Airlines. What was the key aspect of evacuation? As per the aviation experts, the simple step of leaving their valuables behind becomes a "major factor" which accelerates the speed of the evacuation. This was one such historic evacuation where the step proved very fruitful as the last person escaped moments before the entire aircraft was engulfed in flames on the runway of Tokyo's Haneda Airport on Tuesday (Jan 2). Speaking to the BBC, the industry professionals and aviation experts said that this was the result of the rigorous training that the staff had undergone as well as "well-behaved" passengers who actually followed the protocols. Director of the fire safety engineering group at the University of Greenwich in London Prof Ed Galea said, "I don't see a single passenger on the ground, in any of the videos I've seen, that has got their luggage with them… If people tried to take their cabin luggage, that's really dangerous because they would slow down the evacuation.” How much time should the crew take to evacuate in such situations? Speaking to NBC News, aviation expert John Cox said that the Japan Airlines flight was an Airbus A350 which had a capacity of 380 passengers. He stated that in an emergency situation like this, "you want to get them out within 90 seconds." Cox appreciated how the crew made it possible to get everybody off the plane at the right time and also praised the passengers who actually followed their instructions. Watch: Japan: Probe underway in Japan plane collision; 5 killed in Coast Guard aircraft "This is the way you do it. You follow the instructions, go to the exit you get on the slide and you get away from the aircraft and that’s what happened here. And that’s why it was so successful,” he said. What kind of training is provided to crew members? A former attendant Japan Airlines flight, while speaking to the BBC, said the fact that passengers landed safely at Haneda airport was "incredibly fortunate". The airline had stated that in the end only one passenger had sustained bruises, while 13 others had requested medical consultations because of physical discomfort. "I felt relieved to find out that all the passengers were safe. But when I started thinking about the emergency evacuation procedure, I suddenly felt nervous and fearful. Depending on how the two planes collided and how the fire spread, it could have been a lot worse,” said the former flight attendant said. As per the former attendant, all new crew members go through stringent evacuation and rescue training for nearly three weeks before they are permitted to serve on commercial flights. The training – which also teaches how to control the tone and volume of the voice so that the passengers can clearly hear you – is also repeated every year. "We go through a written exam, case study discussions and practical training using different scenarios, such as when the plane has to make a water landing or if there is fire on board. Maintenance staff are also involved in such training," added the former flight attendant, who worked for the airline 10 years ago. Also, all aircraft manufacturers need to prove that everyone aboard is able to evacuate the plane within 90 seconds from the planes so as to get internationally recognised. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | How flawless evacuation helped passengers escape death in Japan jet fireball

Australian authorities have urged thousands of people in north queensland state to move to higher ground owing to flash floods caused due to torrential rain. This comes as tropical cyclone jasper hit the region this week, leaving tens of thousands without power and forcing evacuations.

Australia flash floods: Thousands forced to flee as northeast Australia battles floods

People are stuck on the roof of a hospital and an entire town has been evacuated due to flash floods in north Queensland. In what authorities believe to be the worst-ever flood to hit the Australian region, thousands have been evacuated while others are still stranded.

Cyclone Jasper brings floods, crocodile sightings in Australia

Flood risk, and heavy rain persist in northeast Australia after Cyclone Jasper

Cyclone Jasper: Hundreds evacuated, airports submerged after flash floods hit Australia

<p>At least three elderly people lost their lives in a&nbsp;massive blaze that broke out in a hospital overnight in the Italian town of Tivoli, which is near Rome, as reported by Italian media on Saturday.<br />
<br />
A fourth dead body was discovered in the San Giovanni Evangelista hospital's mortuary, which was reported by many media organisations as the fourth casualty, however, Italy's Ansa news agency said that the victim was said to have died before 11 pm (2200 GMT) on Friday night, which was some time before the hospital caught fire.<br />
<br />
The turntable ladders were used by the fire brigade for evacuating nearly 200 people from the hospital, which included many children and a pregnant woman.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-withdraws-from-chinas-belt-and-road-project-667010">Italy withdraws from China's Belt and Road project</a></p>

<p>In the video released by the department, fire crews were seen trying to reach the hospital's upper floors through ladders as smoke billowed out.</p>

<h2><strong>Patients evacuated, transferred to hospitals</strong></h2>

<p>In a statement, the Tivoli mayor’s office said that the patients in the hospital's intensive care were immediately transferred to other hospitals via ambulance. While the&nbsp;less-critical patients were shifted to the nearby municipal gymnasium and their transfer to other facilities was pending.<br />
<br />
As per the media reports, those people who were evacuated from the hospital were taken to different parts of Rome so as to be provided treatment.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Italy: World's largest Christmas tree lights up on a hill</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/italy-worlds-largest-christmas-tree-lights-up-on-a-hill-667685/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The media reports said that two men and two women, who were killed in the blaze, were aged between 76 and 86.<br />
<br />
The fire brigade stated that the blaze had been put under control and an investigation had been launched to establish its cause.<br />
<br />
In the pictures, the building's black charred side was seen and the fire blaze appeared to have spread across multiple floors.<br />
<br />
Tivoli, which is 20 miles away from Rome and is located towards its northeast, is a famous tourist destination. The place is famous for the archaeological sites of Villa d’Este and Villa Adriana, both of which have been recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


At least three elderly people lost their lives in a massive blaze that broke out in a hospital overnight in the Italian town of Tivoli, which is near Rome, as reported by Italian media on Saturday.

At least three elderly people lost their lives in a massive blaze that broke out in a hospital overnight in the Italian town of Tivoli, which is near Rome, as reported by Italian media on Saturday. A fourth dead body was discovered in the San Giovanni Evangelista hospital's mortuary, which was reported by many media organisations as the fourth casualty, however, Italy's Ansa news agency said that the victim was said to have died before 11 pm (2200 GMT) on Friday night, which was some time before the hospital caught fire. The turntable ladders were used by the fire brigade for evacuating nearly 200 people from the hospital, which included many children and a pregnant woman. Also read: Italy withdraws from China's Belt and Road project In the video released by the department, fire crews were seen trying to reach the hospital's upper floors through ladders as smoke billowed out. Patients evacuated, transferred to hospitals In a statement, the Tivoli mayor’s office said that the patients in the hospital's intensive care were immediately transferred to other hospitals via ambulance. While the less-critical patients were shifted to the nearby municipal gymnasium and their transfer to other facilities was pending. As per the media reports, those people who were evacuated from the hospital were taken to different parts of Rome so as to be provided treatment. Watch: Italy: World's largest Christmas tree lights up on a hill The media reports said that two men and two women, who were killed in the blaze, were aged between 76 and 86. The fire brigade stated that the blaze had been put under control and an investigation had been launched to establish its cause. In the pictures, the building's black charred side was seen and the fire blaze appeared to have spread across multiple floors. Tivoli, which is 20 miles away from Rome and is located towards its northeast, is a famous tourist destination. The place is famous for the archaeological sites of Villa d’Este and Villa Adriana, both of which have been recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. (With inputs from agencies)

Italy: At least three killed, several evacuated after fire breaks out in hospital

<p>Iceland is preparing for a possible volcanic eruption after the nation was rattled by a series of earthquakes which has since prompted officials to declare a state of emergency. Huge cracks could be seen on roads in the Icelandic town of Grindavik, where most of the tremors took place.&nbsp;</p>

<p>So far, around 4,000 residents from Grindavik have been evacuated following an evacuation order in the early hours of Saturday. Residents were briefly allowed back to their homes for a limited time to collect belongings, on Monday (Nov 13).&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Watch | Massive cracks on roads in Grindavik</strong></h2>

<p>Images and videos from the Icelandic town show large cracks running through the town centre, leaving its main street impassable, while steam could be seen rising from the ground.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">New aerial footage from Grindavik, Iceland, shows a large crack in the center of the town with apparent steam emanating from it. <a href="https://t.co/Mjlxafr8ot">pic.twitter.com/Mjlxafr8ot</a></p>
— Nahel Belgherze (@WxNB_) <a href="https://twitter.com/WxNB_/status/1724076210311791005?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">In Iceland, roads have cracked under the pressure of underground magma as the country prepared for a possible volcanic eruption. Southern Iceland was hit with 900 earthquakes on Monday, adding to the tens of thousands of tremors reported in recent weeks <a href="https://t.co/HqYYzR9gPq">https://t.co/HqYYzR9gPq</a> <a href="https://t.co/4z1xtJbUR2">pic.twitter.com/4z1xtJbUR2</a></p>
— Reuters (@Reuters) <a href="https://twitter.com/Reuters/status/1724197950874632550?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>While fears around the impending eruption are high, a sinkhole was also&nbsp;discovered on Sunday (Nov 12).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Volcanologist Thorvaldur Þórðarson told Iceland’s local Channel 2 Evening News that the metre-deep sinkhole formed in Grindavík indicated that the magma tunnel, formed under the town, was very close to the surface and that the eruption would occur within the town limits.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sinkhole-discovered-under-iceland-town-sparks-fears-of-massive-volcanic-eruption-658283">Volcano fears: Sinkhole under Iceland town adds to panic, indicates magma tunnel very close to surface</a></strong></p>

<p>“It indicates that it will soon erupt and that, unfortunately, indicates that the eruption will occur within the town limits of Grindavík,” Thorvaldur told Icelandic media on Sunday.</p>

<h2><strong>State of emergency in Iceland</strong></h2>

<p>Officials in Iceland declared a state of emergency on Friday (Nov 10) &nbsp;after a series of powerful earthquakes rocked the country’s southwestern Reykjanes Peninsula.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The probability of an eruption remained high despite a decrease in seismic activity, said the Icelandic Meteorological Institute, in a statement on Tuesday (Nov 14).&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/iceland-on-edge-seismic-activity-subsides-but-volcanic-threat-looms-658194">Iceland on edge: Seismic activity subsides, but volcanic threat looms</a></strong></p>

<p>The institute also said that they recorded nearly 800 earthquakes between midnight and noon on Tuesday, fewer than the two previous days.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Less seismic activity typically precedes an eruption, because you have come so close to the surface that you cannot build up a lot of tension to trigger large earthquakes,” said Rikke Pedersen, who heads the Nordic Volcanological Centre based in Reykjavik, as quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It should never be taken as a sign that an outbreak is not on the way," she added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Iceland is preparing for a possible volcanic eruption after the nation was rattled by a series of earthquakes which has since prompted officials to declare a state of emergency.

Iceland is preparing for a possible volcanic eruption after the nation was rattled by a series of earthquakes which has since prompted officials to declare a state of emergency. Huge cracks could be seen on roads in the Icelandic town of Grindavik, where most of the tremors took place. So far, around 4,000 residents from Grindavik have been evacuated following an evacuation order in the early hours of Saturday. Residents were briefly allowed back to their homes for a limited time to collect belongings, on Monday (Nov 13). Watch | Massive cracks on roads in Grindavik Images and videos from the Icelandic town show large cracks running through the town centre, leaving its main street impassable, while steam could be seen rising from the ground. New aerial footage from Grindavik, Iceland, shows a large crack in the center of the town with apparent steam emanating from it. pic.twitter.com/Mjlxafr8ot — Nahel Belgherze (@WxNB_) November 13, 2023 × In Iceland, roads have cracked under the pressure of underground magma as the country prepared for a possible volcanic eruption. Southern Iceland was hit with 900 earthquakes on Monday, adding to the tens of thousands of tremors reported in recent weeks https://t.co/HqYYzR9gPq pic.twitter.com/4z1xtJbUR2 — Reuters (@Reuters) November 13, 2023 × While fears around the impending eruption are high, a sinkhole was also discovered on Sunday (Nov 12). Volcanologist Thorvaldur Þórðarson told Iceland’s local Channel 2 Evening News that the metre-deep sinkhole formed in Grindavík indicated that the magma tunnel, formed under the town, was very close to the surface and that the eruption would occur within the town limits. ALSO READ | Volcano fears: Sinkhole under Iceland town adds to panic, indicates magma tunnel very close to surface “It indicates that it will soon erupt and that, unfortunately, indicates that the eruption will occur within the town limits of Grindavík,” Thorvaldur told Icelandic media on Sunday. State of emergency in Iceland Officials in Iceland declared a state of emergency on Friday (Nov 10) after a series of powerful earthquakes rocked the country’s southwestern Reykjanes Peninsula. The probability of an eruption remained high despite a decrease in seismic activity, said the Icelandic Meteorological Institute, in a statement on Tuesday (Nov 14). ALSO READ | Iceland on edge: Seismic activity subsides, but volcanic threat looms The institute also said that they recorded nearly 800 earthquakes between midnight and noon on Tuesday, fewer than the two previous days. “Less seismic activity typically precedes an eruption, because you have come so close to the surface that you cannot build up a lot of tension to trigger large earthquakes,” said Rikke Pedersen, who heads the Nordic Volcanological Centre based in Reykjavik, as quoted by Reuters. "It should never be taken as a sign that an outbreak is not on the way," she added. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch | Earthquakes in Iceland cause massive cracks on roads, smoke rises from ground

Iceland on edge: Seismic activity subsides, but volcanic threat looms

<p>A Southern&nbsp;California&nbsp;wildfire fueled by desert winds burned 2,200 acres (890 hectares) and prompted evacuation orders for 4,000 people in Riverside County, officials said on Tuesday (Oct&nbsp;31).</p>

<p>The Highland Fire nearly doubled in size overnight, pushed to the west by Santa Ana winds. The seasonal phenomenon occurs when dry desert air blows toward the ocean, creating a fire hazard in Southern&nbsp;California.</p>

<p>The fire was unchecked as of Tuesday morning, the&nbsp;California&nbsp;Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) said, with crews attacking the blaze on the ground and aircraft dropping fuchsia-colored retardant.</p>

<p>The Riverside County Fire Department ordered the evacuation of roughly 4,000 people, including the small town of Aguanga, where the fire started on Monday.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;UK: Concerns over alleged Chinese activities; Chiefs of the 'Five Eyes' meet in California</strong></p>

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<p>Officials opened one refugee centre for people and another for animals, while those staying at a resort for recreational vehicles drove their campers to a Walmart parking lot in Temecula about 15 miles (25 km) away.</p>

<p>Evacuees said they left the RV resort at the prodding of first responders, escaping flames that later entered the site.</p>

<p>"I had to grab dog food and basically just get in my van and leave," said Barb Bommarito.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-near-extinct-animal-spotted-near-national-monument-for-the-first-time-in-100-years-645686"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;US: Elusive creature on the brink of extinction spotted for the first time in 100 years</strong></a></p>

<p>Robert Duke, 85, said people were uncertain about whether the evacuation was necessary, but "it was made mandatory with law-enforcement cars coming around with red and blue flashing lights and broadcasting ... that we should all leave."</p>

<p>The cause of the fire was being investigated, Cal Fire said, adding that the blaze was a continuing threat with several roads closed and evacuation orders in effect.</p>

<p>Southern&nbsp;California&nbsp;has so far had a mild fire year in 2023, after unusually heavy rainfall that included the first tropical storm to reach heavily populated areas in the state in 84 years.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A Southern California wildfire fueled by desert winds burned 2,200 acres (890 hectares) and prompted evacuation orders for 4,000 people in Riverside County, officials said on Tuesday (Oct 31).

A Southern California wildfire fueled by desert winds burned 2,200 acres (890 hectares) and prompted evacuation orders for 4,000 people in Riverside County, officials said on Tuesday (Oct 31). The Highland Fire nearly doubled in size overnight, pushed to the west by Santa Ana winds. The seasonal phenomenon occurs when dry desert air blows toward the ocean, creating a fire hazard in Southern California. The fire was unchecked as of Tuesday morning, the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) said, with crews attacking the blaze on the ground and aircraft dropping fuchsia-colored retardant. The Riverside County Fire Department ordered the evacuation of roughly 4,000 people, including the small town of Aguanga, where the fire started on Monday. Watch: UK: Concerns over alleged Chinese activities; Chiefs of the 'Five Eyes' meet in California × Officials opened one refugee centre for people and another for animals, while those staying at a resort for recreational vehicles drove their campers to a Walmart parking lot in Temecula about 15 miles (25 km) away. Evacuees said they left the RV resort at the prodding of first responders, escaping flames that later entered the site. "I had to grab dog food and basically just get in my van and leave," said Barb Bommarito. Also read: US: Elusive creature on the brink of extinction spotted for the first time in 100 years Robert Duke, 85, said people were uncertain about whether the evacuation was necessary, but "it was made mandatory with law-enforcement cars coming around with red and blue flashing lights and broadcasting ... that we should all leave." The cause of the fire was being investigated, Cal Fire said, adding that the blaze was a continuing threat with several roads closed and evacuation orders in effect. Southern California has so far had a mild fire year in 2023, after unusually heavy rainfall that included the first tropical storm to reach heavily populated areas in the state in 84 years. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US: 4,000 evacuated as massive wildfire ravages southern California

<p>In a devastating incident, a&nbsp;semitruck carrying anhydrous ammonia overturned&nbsp;after a multi-vehicle crash in Illinois, US, resulting in "multiple fatalities," media reports said citing the Illinois State Police on Saturday (Sep 30).&nbsp;The harrowing accident, involving several vehicles, occurred approximately half a mile east of Teutopolis, Illinois, along US Highway 40 on Friday (Sep&nbsp;29) at around 9:25 pm local time. Police, in a statement reviewed by CBS News, revealed that the collision caused the semitruck to leak ammonia. This reportedly necessitated the partial evacuation of local residents.</p>

<p>Anhydrous ammonia is a toxic substance that, when inhaled at high concentrations, can be fatal. It also has the potential to cause burns to the skin and eyes and inflict severe respiratory injuries.</p>

<p>Also&nbsp;Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/armenia-says-over-100000-have-fled-nagorno-karabakh-fuel-depot-blast-death-toll-rises-to-170-641264">Armenia says over 100,000 have fled Nagorno-Karabakh</a></p>

<p>During a Saturday (Sept 30) morning news conference, an Illinois State Police official spoke of the severity of the accident and described the situation as "fluid".</p>

<p>Effingham County Sheriff Paul Kuhns, speaking during the news conference, reported the presence of a significant ammonia plume resulting from the leak.</p>

<p>Due to the highly hazardous air conditions in the northeastern area of Teutopolis as per authorities, they ordered an evacuation within a roughly one-mile radius surrounding the crash site.</p>

<h2><strong>Fatalities&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The police statement pointed out that there were "multiple fatalities" tied to the crash. However, specific numbers were not immediately disclosed.&nbsp;Officials also refrained from providing details regarding the causes of the fatalities.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-khalistan-radicals-prevent-indian-high-commissioner-from-entering-gurdwara-641133">UK Khalistani radicals prevent Indian high commissioner from entering Gurdwara</a></p>

<p>Teutopolis fire chief Tim McMahon did confirm that five individuals were airlifted, and one person was transported by ground to local hospitals. The conditions of these individuals and the reasons for their transport remained unclear.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/how-strong-are-us-india-relations-amid-canada-throwing-accusations-641321">How strong are US-India relations amid Canada throwing accusations</a></strong></p>

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<p>Adverse air conditions resulting from the ammonia leak forced emergency responders to delay accessing the crash site as they worked to mitigate the hazardous conditions. Sheriff Kuhns noted that the crash site spanned a sizable area.</p>

<h2><strong>Ongoing cleanup and road closure</strong></h2>

<p>The affected stretch of highway between Teutopolis and Montrose was closed to traffic. Teams were actively engaged in efforts to contain the ammonia leak, and cleanup operations were in progress as of 9:15 a.m. local time on Saturday (Sep&nbsp;30).&nbsp;During the news conference, officials described ammonia as "terrible."</p>

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In a devastating incident, a semitruck carrying anhydrous ammonia overturned after a multi-vehicle crash in Illinois, US, resulting in "multiple fatalities," media reports said citing the Illinois State Police on Saturday (Sep 30).

In a devastating incident, a semitruck carrying anhydrous ammonia overturned after a multi-vehicle crash in Illinois, US, resulting in "multiple fatalities," media reports said citing the Illinois State Police on Saturday (Sep 30). The harrowing accident, involving several vehicles, occurred approximately half a mile east of Teutopolis, Illinois, along US Highway 40 on Friday (Sep 29) at around 9:25 pm local time. Police, in a statement reviewed by CBS News, revealed that the collision caused the semitruck to leak ammonia. This reportedly necessitated the partial evacuation of local residents. Anhydrous ammonia is a toxic substance that, when inhaled at high concentrations, can be fatal. It also has the potential to cause burns to the skin and eyes and inflict severe respiratory injuries. Also Read | Armenia says over 100,000 have fled Nagorno-Karabakh During a Saturday (Sept 30) morning news conference, an Illinois State Police official spoke of the severity of the accident and described the situation as "fluid". Effingham County Sheriff Paul Kuhns, speaking during the news conference, reported the presence of a significant ammonia plume resulting from the leak. Due to the highly hazardous air conditions in the northeastern area of Teutopolis as per authorities, they ordered an evacuation within a roughly one-mile radius surrounding the crash site. Fatalities The police statement pointed out that there were "multiple fatalities" tied to the crash. However, specific numbers were not immediately disclosed. Officials also refrained from providing details regarding the causes of the fatalities. Also Read | UK Khalistani radicals prevent Indian high commissioner from entering Gurdwara Teutopolis fire chief Tim McMahon did confirm that five individuals were airlifted, and one person was transported by ground to local hospitals. The conditions of these individuals and the reasons for their transport remained unclear. Watch | How strong are US-India relations amid Canada throwing accusations × Adverse air conditions resulting from the ammonia leak forced emergency responders to delay accessing the crash site as they worked to mitigate the hazardous conditions. Sheriff Kuhns noted that the crash site spanned a sizable area. Ongoing cleanup and road closure The affected stretch of highway between Teutopolis and Montrose was closed to traffic. Teams were actively engaged in efforts to contain the ammonia leak, and cleanup operations were in progress as of 9:15 a.m. local time on Saturday (Sep 30). During the news conference, officials described ammonia as "terrible." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Illinois crash: 'Multiple fatalities' as overturned semitruck leaks ammonia, triggering evacuation

Azerbaijan launches an attack in Nagorno-Karabakh, announces ‘evacuation’ of Armenian population. At least 25 were killed, and 138 wounded in the Azerbaijan offensive in Karabakh-separatist.

Azerbaijan launches operation against Armenian forces in Nagorno-Karabakh

The first tropical storm to directly strike the island in four years, Typhoon Haikui, has forced nearly 3,000 residents to leave high-risk locations in eastern Taiwan.

Typhoon Haikui: Almost 3000 evacuated, schools and businesses closed in Taiwan

Authorities said that dozens of people perished in a fire that overtook a five-story building in central Johannesburg early on Thursday. Around 1:30 a.m. local time, the fire started in the heart of the biggest city in South Africa. According to Robert Mulaudzi, a spokesperson for the City of Johannesburg Emergency Management Services, firefighters were called to the area and evacuated individuals from the building while attempting to put out the fires.

At least 73 dead in a fire in Johannesburg

A massive landslide hits the Kullu district of the North Indian state of Himachal Pradesh as heavy rains continue to wreak havoc.

Himachal: Massive landslide hits Kullu-Mandi highway

Around 100,000 people evacuated from flooded villages in Pakistan's Punjab province after Sutlej river bursts its banks on Sunday.

Around 100,000 people evacuated due to floods in Pakistan

<p>Around 100,000 people have been evacuated from flooded villages in Pakistan's Punjab province, emergency services said on Wednesday. Several hundred villages and thousands of acres of cropland in the central province were inundated when the Sutlej river burst its banks on Sunday. Emergency services have been working to evacuate residents and livestock to higher ground.</p>

<p>"We have rescued 100,000 people and transferred them to safer places," Farooq Ahmad, spokesman for the Punjab emergency services, told AFP.</p>

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<p>The head of Punjab's government, Mohsin Naqvi, claimed that monsoon rains had prompted authorities in India to release excess reservoir water into the Sutlej river, causing flooding downstream on the Pakistani side of the border. Officials on the Indian side could not immediately be reached for comment.</p>

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<p>The Punjab disaster management agency warned that forecasted monsoon rains could exacerbate the flooding in the coming days.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Greece wildfires: Temperature in Greece touches 41 degree Celsius</strong></p>

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<p>Pakistan is still struggling to recover from the devastating floods that inundated nearly one-third of the country in 2022, affecting more than 33 million people.</p>

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Around 100,000 people have been evacuated from flooded villages in Pakistan's Punjab province, emergency services said on Wednesday. Several hundred villages and thousands of acres of cropland in the central province were inundated when the Sutlej river burst its banks on Sunday.

Around 100,000 people have been evacuated from flooded villages in Pakistan's Punjab province, emergency services said on Wednesday. Several hundred villages and thousands of acres of cropland in the central province were inundated when the Sutlej river burst its banks on Sunday. Emergency services have been working to evacuate residents and livestock to higher ground. "We have rescued 100,000 people and transferred them to safer places," Farooq Ahmad, spokesman for the Punjab emergency services, told AFP. Also Read | Child gun deaths reach all-time high in the United States, reveals new study The head of Punjab's government, Mohsin Naqvi, claimed that monsoon rains had prompted authorities in India to release excess reservoir water into the Sutlej river, causing flooding downstream on the Pakistani side of the border. Officials on the Indian side could not immediately be reached for comment. Also Read | Two civilians killed in Russian air strikes on water station in Syria's rebel-held northwest The Punjab disaster management agency warned that forecasted monsoon rains could exacerbate the flooding in the coming days. Watch | Greece wildfires: Temperature in Greece touches 41 degree Celsius × Pakistan is still struggling to recover from the devastating floods that inundated nearly one-third of the country in 2022, affecting more than 33 million people. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Around 100,000 people evacuated due to floods In Pakistan

Hundreds of wildfires are filling the skies with smoke in the Canadian province of British Columbia. This has led to millions being put under air quality warnings. The wildfires, which analysts say are a result of climate change, increase concerns about the impact on human health.

Over 35,000 forced to evacuate as wildfires spread in Canada

<p>Provincial officials have ordered&nbsp;the evacuation of approximately 30,000 individuals in western Canada's British Columbia, amidst escalating wildfires, media reports said. Bowinn Ma, British Columbia's minister of emergency management and climate readiness, spoke about the dynamic nature of the wildfire crisis. "The situation is highly dynamic and the numbers are changing all the time, but as of now we are currently hovering at about 30,000 people on evacuation order and an additional 36,000 people on evacuation alert," Ma said.</p>

<h2><strong>Kelowna engulfed in smoke</strong></h2>

<p>The situation has become particularly dire for the city of Kelowna, which is now facing the immediate threat of a raging wildfire. With a population of 150,000, Kelowna is grappling with dense smoke. With this, it joins the list of Canadian population centres hit by this summer's extensive wildfires. The nationwide outbreak of wildfires has already scorched millions of acres of land.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-in-dominican-republic-explosion-rises-to-32-officials-blame-plastics-company-627107">Death toll in Dominican Republic explosion rises to 32; officials blame plastics company</a></p>

<p>"We cannot stress strongly enough how critical it is to follow evacuation orders when they are issued," Ma reportedly said at a news conference and added,&nbsp;"They are a matter of life and death not only for the people in those properties, but also for the first responders who will often go back to try to implore people to leave."</p>

<h2><strong>Differing evacuation figures&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>While Premier David Eby reported slightly different figures, with 35,000 people ordered to evacuate and 30,000 more preparing to leave if necessary, both Eby and Ma endorsed an emergency order.</p>

<p>This order also includes a halt on non-essential visits to affected areas, encompassing Kelowna, Kamloops, Oliver, Penticton, Vernon, and Osoyoos, which is near the US border. This move is aimed to prevent disruptions to the ongoing firefighting efforts.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-should-i-participate-trump-chooses-tucker-carlson-over-republican-presidential-debate-report-627094">'Why should I participate': Trump chooses Tucker Carlson over Republican primary debate, says report</a></p>

<p>Authorities have also urged thrill-seekers to avoid the affected regions. Their presence could hinder the firefighting and response operations.&nbsp;"Please just stay out of these areas if you don't have to be there," Eby said.</p>

<h2><strong>Largest evacuation in northwest territories&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The evacuation in British Columbia comes on the heels of the unprecedented evacuation of Yellowknife, the capital of the Northwest Territories.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Canada’s British Columbia under state of emergency as Kelowna wildfire rages</strong></p>

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<p>The city was cleared due to wildfires advancing toward it. While winds exacerbated the situation, bringing flames closer to Yellowknife, a recent spell of rain provided temporary relief. Additionally, government weather forecasts have projected a substantial drop in temperatures. As wildfires continue to pose a substantial threat, the authorities are ensuring the safety of the people while also battling the blazes.</p>

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Provincial officials have ordered the evacuation of approximately 30,000 individuals in western Canada's British Columbia, amidst escalating wildfires, media reports said.

Provincial officials have ordered the evacuation of approximately 30,000 individuals in western Canada's British Columbia, amidst escalating wildfires, media reports said. Bowinn Ma, British Columbia's minister of emergency management and climate readiness, spoke about the dynamic nature of the wildfire crisis. "The situation is highly dynamic and the numbers are changing all the time, but as of now we are currently hovering at about 30,000 people on evacuation order and an additional 36,000 people on evacuation alert," Ma said. Kelowna engulfed in smoke The situation has become particularly dire for the city of Kelowna, which is now facing the immediate threat of a raging wildfire. With a population of 150,000, Kelowna is grappling with dense smoke. With this, it joins the list of Canadian population centres hit by this summer's extensive wildfires. The nationwide outbreak of wildfires has already scorched millions of acres of land. Also Read | Death toll in Dominican Republic explosion rises to 32; officials blame plastics company "We cannot stress strongly enough how critical it is to follow evacuation orders when they are issued," Ma reportedly said at a news conference and added, "They are a matter of life and death not only for the people in those properties, but also for the first responders who will often go back to try to implore people to leave." Differing evacuation figures While Premier David Eby reported slightly different figures, with 35,000 people ordered to evacuate and 30,000 more preparing to leave if necessary, both Eby and Ma endorsed an emergency order. This order also includes a halt on non-essential visits to affected areas, encompassing Kelowna, Kamloops, Oliver, Penticton, Vernon, and Osoyoos, which is near the US border. This move is aimed to prevent disruptions to the ongoing firefighting efforts. Also Read | 'Why should I participate': Trump chooses Tucker Carlson over Republican primary debate, says report Authorities have also urged thrill-seekers to avoid the affected regions. Their presence could hinder the firefighting and response operations. "Please just stay out of these areas if you don't have to be there," Eby said. Largest evacuation in northwest territories The evacuation in British Columbia comes on the heels of the unprecedented evacuation of Yellowknife, the capital of the Northwest Territories. Watch | Canada’s British Columbia under state of emergency as Kelowna wildfire rages × The city was cleared due to wildfires advancing toward it. While winds exacerbated the situation, bringing flames closer to Yellowknife, a recent spell of rain provided temporary relief. Additionally, government weather forecasts have projected a substantial drop in temperatures. As wildfires continue to pose a substantial threat, the authorities are ensuring the safety of the people while also battling the blazes. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Canada wildfires: About 30,000 in British Columbia under evacuation order, 36,000 on alert

<p>Another wildfire in Canada's western province of British Columbia led to fresh evacuation orders on Friday (August 18). Residents from the north Canadian city of Yellowknife rushed to leave the town before flames could block their exit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A state of emergency was declared on Friday in Kelowna, it is a city which is some 300 kilometres (180 miles) east of Vancouver. It has a population or about 150,000. The province with a coast on Pacific Ocean province has said that next 24 to 48 hours may be the most difficult.</p>

<p>Some of the hills around the city blazed in the predawn light after wildfires that had been burning since Tuesday jumped Lake Okanagan and spread into parts of Kelowna.</p>

<p>"Residents under Evacuation Alert are advised to be ready to leave their home at a moment's notice," the city said in a statement. More than 2,400 properties were being evacuated, officials said.</p>

<p>The reach of flames and disruption caused by the wildfires are indicative of severity of this year's chaos. This is worst-on-record Canadian wildfire season.</p>

<p>Some 885 miles (1,425 km) to the northeast, the massive blaze threatening Yellowknife, the Northwest Territories' capital city, made little progress on Thursday, but changing winds meant it could reach the outskirts by the weekend, said Mike Westwick, the territories' fire information officer.</p>

<p>"The next two days are absolutely critical and will be some of the most challenging of the season," he told the Canadian Broadcasting Corp (CBC) early on Friday.</p>

<p>"We're going to be putting everything we have into slowing that progression down. We're going to be throwing aircraft at it, and when it's safe, we're going to be throwing people at it," Westwick said.</p>

<p>Reuters reported that the fire is about 15 km northwest of the city. However, it is expected that changing winds will drive the flames closer. The only highway out of town is open but fires are burning on either side of it.</p>

<p>"Leaving Yellowknife, you're driving into the smoke," said Brent Saulnier, who had been visiting the city from neighboring Alberta. "It is on fire on both sides of the road. ... It's a very surreal experience."</p>

<p>Many still must leave the city of around 20,000 with the deadline for evacuation set at noon local time (1800 GMT).</p>

<p>"The noon deadline doesn't mean that the highway closes at noon," Yellowknife Mayor Rebecca Alty said in an interview with CBC. "We're just really encouraging folks to go as soon as possible. The highway will continue to be open as long as it's safe."</p>

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Another wildfire in Canada's western province of British Columbia led to fresh evacuation orders on Friday (August 18). Residents from the north Canadian city of Yellowknife rushed to leave the town before flames could block their exit.

Another wildfire in Canada's western province of British Columbia led to fresh evacuation orders on Friday (August 18). Residents from the north Canadian city of Yellowknife rushed to leave the town before flames could block their exit. A state of emergency was declared on Friday in Kelowna, it is a city which is some 300 kilometres (180 miles) east of Vancouver. It has a population or about 150,000. The province with a coast on Pacific Ocean province has said that next 24 to 48 hours may be the most difficult. Some of the hills around the city blazed in the predawn light after wildfires that had been burning since Tuesday jumped Lake Okanagan and spread into parts of Kelowna. "Residents under Evacuation Alert are advised to be ready to leave their home at a moment's notice," the city said in a statement. More than 2,400 properties were being evacuated, officials said. The reach of flames and disruption caused by the wildfires are indicative of severity of this year's chaos. This is worst-on-record Canadian wildfire season. Some 885 miles (1,425 km) to the northeast, the massive blaze threatening Yellowknife, the Northwest Territories' capital city, made little progress on Thursday, but changing winds meant it could reach the outskirts by the weekend, said Mike Westwick, the territories' fire information officer. "The next two days are absolutely critical and will be some of the most challenging of the season," he told the Canadian Broadcasting Corp (CBC) early on Friday. "We're going to be putting everything we have into slowing that progression down. We're going to be throwing aircraft at it, and when it's safe, we're going to be throwing people at it," Westwick said. Reuters reported that the fire is about 15 km northwest of the city. However, it is expected that changing winds will drive the flames closer. The only highway out of town is open but fires are burning on either side of it. "Leaving Yellowknife, you're driving into the smoke," said Brent Saulnier, who had been visiting the city from neighboring Alberta. "It is on fire on both sides of the road. ... It's a very surreal experience." Many still must leave the city of around 20,000 with the deadline for evacuation set at noon local time (1800 GMT). "The noon deadline doesn't mean that the highway closes at noon," Yellowknife Mayor Rebecca Alty said in an interview with CBC. "We're just really encouraging folks to go as soon as possible. The highway will continue to be open as long as it's safe." You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Wildfire spreads in Western Canada's British Columbia, triggers fresh evacuation

Massive wildfires have prompted firefighters to race against time and evacuate over 20,000 residents to leave their homes. What are the updates? Molly Gambhir brings you a report.

Gravitas: Wildfires burn across Northwest Territories in Canada

<p>A wildfire, known as the Gray Fire, is rapidly spreading through eastern Washington state, prompting urgent actions from authorities, media reports said. As a result, two medical facilities had to seek shelter in place while some residents have been instructed to leave their homes for safety.&nbsp;Spokane County Fire District 10 released a statement via social media confirming the progression of the Gray Fire. Covering an expanse of approximately 500 acres near Medical Lake, Washington, the fire has triggered concerns and necessitated swift response measures.</p>

<h2><strong>Evacuation orders for Medical Lake residents</strong></h2>

<p>In light of the escalating fire situation, evacuation directives have been issued for residents residing in the Medical Lake vicinity, along with those in the area located to the south of the city. The Spokane County Fire District has taken these precautionary actions to ensure the safety of all individuals residing in the area.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nigers-new-prime-minister-says-no-harm-will-come-to-captive-president-mohamed-bazoum-626880">Niger's new Prime Minister says no harm will come to captive President Mohamed Bazoum</a></p>

<p>Two state-operated medical facilities, namely Eastern State Hospital and Lakeland Village Residential Habilitation Center, are currently implementing shelter-in-place protocols.</p>

<p>Norah West, the assistant director of the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services, told CNN media outlet that these facilities are taking necessary precautions in response to the unfolding emergency.</p>

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<p>“This is an emerging situation and we are working to confirm details on the ground,” West reportedly said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Aircraft deployed in firefighting efforts</strong></h2>

<p>As the wildfire continues to grow, authorities have called upon aircraft resources to combat the flames and control the fire's advance. Spokane County Fire District 10 has mobilised aerial support as part of its comprehensive strategy to contain the Gray Fire.</p>

<h2><strong>No reported casualties&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>At present, there are no reported casualties resulting from the Gray Fire, according to Sarah Jydstrup, a spokesperson for Spokane County Fire District 10, reported CNN.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Has China's growth story hit a roadblock?&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>The unfolding disaster is centered around the region of Medical Lake, situated approximately 15 miles to the southwest of Spokane.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Canada wildfires&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, many are swiftly leaving the capital of Canada's Northwest Territories due to the presence of over 200 wildfires. This has resulted in many people encountering hazardous road conditions or waiting in long queues for hours in hopes of securing essential emergency flights. Evacuation efforts are also ongoing in British Columbia.</p>

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A wildfire, known as the Gray Fire, is rapidly spreading through eastern Washington state, prompting urgent actions from authorities, media reports said. As a result, two medical facilities had to seek shelter in place while some residents have been instructed to leave their homes for safety.

A wildfire, known as the Gray Fire, is rapidly spreading through eastern Washington state, prompting urgent actions from authorities, media reports said. As a result, two medical facilities had to seek shelter in place while some residents have been instructed to leave their homes for safety. Spokane County Fire District 10 released a statement via social media confirming the progression of the Gray Fire. Covering an expanse of approximately 500 acres near Medical Lake, Washington, the fire has triggered concerns and necessitated swift response measures. Evacuation orders for Medical Lake residents In light of the escalating fire situation, evacuation directives have been issued for residents residing in the Medical Lake vicinity, along with those in the area located to the south of the city. The Spokane County Fire District has taken these precautionary actions to ensure the safety of all individuals residing in the area. Also Read | Niger's new Prime Minister says no harm will come to captive President Mohamed Bazoum Two state-operated medical facilities, namely Eastern State Hospital and Lakeland Village Residential Habilitation Center, are currently implementing shelter-in-place protocols. Norah West, the assistant director of the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services, told CNN media outlet that these facilities are taking necessary precautions in response to the unfolding emergency. Also Read | Brazil: Bolsonaro's legal troubles mount as SC Justice authorises probe into his finances “This is an emerging situation and we are working to confirm details on the ground,” West reportedly said. Aircraft deployed in firefighting efforts As the wildfire continues to grow, authorities have called upon aircraft resources to combat the flames and control the fire's advance. Spokane County Fire District 10 has mobilised aerial support as part of its comprehensive strategy to contain the Gray Fire. No reported casualties At present, there are no reported casualties resulting from the Gray Fire, according to Sarah Jydstrup, a spokesperson for Spokane County Fire District 10, reported CNN. Watch | Has China's growth story hit a roadblock? × The unfolding disaster is centered around the region of Medical Lake, situated approximately 15 miles to the southwest of Spokane. Canada wildfires Meanwhile, many are swiftly leaving the capital of Canada's Northwest Territories due to the presence of over 200 wildfires. This has resulted in many people encountering hazardous road conditions or waiting in long queues for hours in hopes of securing essential emergency flights. Evacuation efforts are also ongoing in British Columbia. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Escalating wildfire threatens Washington state residents, triggers urgent evacuations

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