Jerry Lee Lewis, a pioneer of rock n' roll with hits such as 'Great Balls of Fire' died at age 87. He passed away at his home in Desoto County, Mississippi, with his wife, Judith, by his side.

Jerry Lee Lewis, 'Great Balls of Fire' Musician dies at 87

Water levels continue to drop across the mighty Mississippi river in the United States. Now that some portions of the riverbed are exposed, visitors have been flocking to the riverside to see what the receding shoreline has revealed.

WION Climate Tracker: Water in Mississippi river at precarious levels since August

A local Baton Rouge resident in Louisana recently unearthed a historical artefact when traversing through the shallow waters of the Mississippi river. Reportedly, the resident named Patrick Ford found a wreck of a 19th-century ship lying at the seabed of the river which has shrunk to record levels due to severe drought across the US Midwest.

A local Baton Rouge resident in Louisana recently unearthed a historical artefact when traversing through the shallow waters of the Mississippi river. Reportedly, the resident named Patrick Ford found a wreck of a 19th-century ship lying at the seabed of the river which has shrunk to record levels due to severe drought across the US Midwest. According to local media reports, Ford was observing the river's receding water for weeks when he made the discovery, which according to him, still was a 'surprise'. “This past Sunday I was out here looking and realized the rest of the shore had washed away and there was an entire ship there. I immediately texted friends and was like, 'holy moly, I think I found a ship, a sunken ship!'" said Ford. Read more: Human-induced climate change made summer drought ‘at least 20 times’ more likely, study finds After finding the boat, Ford approached experts to determine the exact history of the boat. The news soon reached Mississippi’s state archaeologist Chip McGimsey who said the existence of the boat has been known for some time. "We believe this is a ship that was manufactured in 1896 in Indiana for trade here," said McGimsey who added, “In 1992, it was exposed, an archeological firm did some work. At that time, it was not nearly as exposed as it is now." “For the most part, there are not good documents on boat building, especially once you get back into the area of wooden ships. They have a lot of individuality in these boats, and there are so few of them remaining. This is a rare example of one from around 1900.” Climate change has caused severe droughts across the planet. The drying of rivers has revealed some long-forgotten or never-before-discovered artefacts and in some cases, entire cities. As reported by WION, in June, the ruins of an ancient city, determined to be around 3,400 years old were discovered by archaeologists in Iraq. In pics - Ruins of hidden 3,400-year-old city found after severe drought in Iraq The discovery was made by a team of German and Kurdish researchers who were able to find the lost city due to the drawing down of the Mosul reservoir in the aftermath of severe droughts in Iraq in the recent past. The team also came across five ceramic jars containing over 100 cuneiform tablets. The ancient scripts date back to the Middle Assyrian period, a time shortly before the earthquake that destroyed the city, according to the archaeologists. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Louisiana man discovers a 19th-century boat as Mississippi river runs dry

Authorities in Mississippi found themselves in a tough spot when a pilot flying a small aircraft threatened to crash into a Walmart store. After five hours of flying, he ran out of fuel and finally agreed to land.

Mississippi : Pilot lands after threatening to crash into Walmart

Soldiers in fatigues have been called in to assist as a crisis that has become more severe has left many inhabitants of Mississippi's capital city without clean water. They are using forklifts and diggers to unload massive pallets of bottled water for distribution to those who are most in need.&nbsp;

Water shortages have been an ongoing problem in Jackson, where 80 percent of residents are Black and poverty is pervasive. However, this one is exceptionally bad, leaving many locals without access to clean, flowing water for almost a week.&nbsp;

A crucial but outdated water treatment plant's operations were hampered for days by significant flooding.

Due to the low pressure, brown water—which is unfit for consumption even after boiling—occasionally sputters out when inhabitants turn on the faucet.&nbsp;

"At my home the water is running very slowly. It's a horrible situation in the entire city", the 55-year-old Jackson resident Mary Jones said.&nbsp;

The federal government has pledged resources to assist Mississippi in resolving the situation.&nbsp;

Major repairs are being made, but for the time being, people must rely on bottled water that is delivered heaped tall on pallets.

Every resident who visits a distribution site is entitled to two cases.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-zulu-bare-breasted-maiden-dance-revived-first-time-since-covid-512719">Watch: Zulu 'bare-breasted maiden' dance revived first time since Covid</a>

Many linked it to the water crisis that occurred in Flint, Michigan between 2014 and 2016. Because of poor management and negligence, the city's water supply was dangerously poisoned with lead.&nbsp;

The largest city in Mississippi, one of the poorest states in the union, is Jackson. The tax base decreased for years as more wealthy white citizens relocated to the suburbs, contributing to the city's struggling finances. A quarter of Jackson's population now lives in poverty.&nbsp;

One resident, who asked that her name not be used&nbsp;gave a description of her typical day.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Soldiers in fatigues have been called in to assist as a crisis that has become more severe has left many inhabitants of Mississippi's capital city without clean water.

Soldiers in fatigues have been called in to assist as a crisis that has become more severe has left many inhabitants of Mississippi's capital city without clean water. They are using forklifts and diggers to unload massive pallets of bottled water for distribution to those who are most in need. Water shortages have been an ongoing problem in Jackson, where 80 percent of residents are Black and poverty is pervasive. However, this one is exceptionally bad, leaving many locals without access to clean, flowing water for almost a week. A crucial but outdated water treatment plant's operations were hampered for days by significant flooding. Due to the low pressure, brown water—which is unfit for consumption even after boiling—occasionally sputters out when inhabitants turn on the faucet. "At my home the water is running very slowly. It's a horrible situation in the entire city", the 55-year-old Jackson resident Mary Jones said. The federal government has pledged resources to assist Mississippi in resolving the situation. Major repairs are being made, but for the time being, people must rely on bottled water that is delivered heaped tall on pallets. Every resident who visits a distribution site is entitled to two cases. Also Read: Watch: Zulu 'bare-breasted maiden' dance revived first time since Covid Many linked it to the water crisis that occurred in Flint, Michigan between 2014 and 2016. Because of poor management and negligence, the city's water supply was dangerously poisoned with lead. The largest city in Mississippi, one of the poorest states in the union, is Jackson. The tax base decreased for years as more wealthy white citizens relocated to the suburbs, contributing to the city's struggling finances. A quarter of Jackson's population now lives in poverty. One resident, who asked that her name not be used gave a description of her typical day. (with inputs from agencies)

Mississippi capital with 80% black, poverty rife population struggles without drinkable water

United States where Mississippi continues to struggle with its water crisis and frustrations mounting the state's capital. Residents endured 5th day without running water and 600 troops have been deployed to distribute water.

WION Climate Tracker | Jackson: Residents endure 5th day without running water

A video of a man threatening to crash a plane into a Walmart has gone viral after he stole it in Tupelo, Mississippi.

The Walmart and a nearby convenience store had been evacuated according to the Tupelo Police Department.

It said in a Facebook post, “Citizens are asked to avoid that area until an all clear is given. With the mobility of an aeroplane of that type the danger zone is much larger than even Tupelo."

The pilot of a small airplane, which is a nine-seater 1987 Beech C90A with two engines, has been circling the store in the air for more than three hours.

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BREAKING: Tupelo, Mississippi police fear the pilot at the controls of this plane is threatening to fly it into a Walmart. Evacuations are underway. <a href="https://t.co/3tkAygDQ3C">pic.twitter.com/3tkAygDQ3C</a>
— Griffin Frank (@GriffinFrank) <a href="https://twitter.com/GriffinFrank/status/1566043676593340416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 3, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The former employee of Tupelo Regional Airport called 911 and threatened to intentionally crash into Wal-Mart on West Main.

Shortly after 8 am that the plane had left the airspace around Tupelo and was flying near a Toyota manufacturing plant in nearby Blue Springs, the Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal reported.

Highlighting that state law enforcement and emergency managers are closely tracking this dangerous situation, Governor Tate Reeves said all citizens should be on alert and aware of updates from the Tupelo Police Department. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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A video of a man threatening to crash a plane into a Walmart has gone viral after he stole it in Tupelo, Mississippi. The Walmart and a nearby convenience store had been evacuated according to the Tupelo Police Department.

A video of a man threatening to crash a plane into a Walmart has gone viral after he stole it in Tupelo, Mississippi. The Walmart and a nearby convenience store had been evacuated according to the Tupelo Police Department. It said in a Facebook post, “Citizens are asked to avoid that area until an all clear is given. With the mobility of an aeroplane of that type the danger zone is much larger than even Tupelo." The pilot of a small airplane, which is a nine-seater 1987 Beech C90A with two engines, has been circling the store in the air for more than three hours. BREAKING: Tupelo, Mississippi police fear the pilot at the controls of this plane is threatening to fly it into a Walmart. Evacuations are underway. pic.twitter.com/3tkAygDQ3C — Griffin Frank (@GriffinFrank) September 3, 2022 × The former employee of Tupelo Regional Airport called 911 and threatened to intentionally crash into Wal-Mart on West Main. Shortly after 8 am that the plane had left the airspace around Tupelo and was flying near a Toyota manufacturing plant in nearby Blue Springs, the Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal reported. Highlighting that state law enforcement and emergency managers are closely tracking this dangerous situation, Governor Tate Reeves said all citizens should be on alert and aware of updates from the Tupelo Police Department. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

Watch | Man threatens to crash plane into Walmart after stealing it in Mississippi

Recent torrential rain coupled with years of water system issues have resulted in a major water crisis in Mississippi's capital city Jackson. Authorities in the capital have now declared a health emergency.

WION Climate Tracker | Mississippi's capital grapples with multiple water problems

Record-breaking rainfall in the United States and Mississippi threatens to flood streets and creep into the homes within the next two days as the state braces for a deluge. The governor of Mississippi had declared a state of emergency on Saturday.

WION Climate Tracker | Record-breaking rainfall threatens to flood Mississippi

A Mississippi court on Tuesday declines to block a near-total ban on abortions from coming into effect later this week. Judge Debbra Halford in Jackson, Mississippi denied a request by the state`s only abortion clinic to prevent officials from carrying out a near-total ban on abortion. The ban is due to come into effect on Thursday.

Jackson Women`s Health Organization, the abortion clinic cited 1998 ruling by the Mississippi Supreme Court in which it was held that right to privacy under the state`s constitution included a right to abortion.

However, Judge Halford expressed doubts that state high court would continue to uphold the decision.

Rob McDuff, a lawyer for the Mississippi clinic, called the ruling disappointing and said they were considering their options.

Mississippi is one of 13 states in the US where "trigger" laws are present. These laws are designed to ban/ restrict abortions once US Supreme Court overturned the landmark Roe v Wade judgment.

The US Supreme Court on June 24 overturned the landmark ruling that provided constitutional access to abortions to women in the US.

The conservative majority US&nbsp;Supreme Court`s decision gave states permission to ban abortion and nearly two dozen Republican-led states are now trying to do so, or have done so already.

The decision has ignited a wave of litigation by clinics in various states aimed at preserving the ability of women to obtain abortions based on protections in state rather than federal constitutions, as well as nationwide protests.

(With inputs from agencies)

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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A Mississippi court on Tuesday declines to block a near-total ban on abortions from coming into effect later this week. Judge Debbra Halford in Jackson, Mississippi denied a request by the state`s only abortion clinic to prevent officials from carrying out a near-total ban on abortion.

A Mississippi court on Tuesday declines to block a near-total ban on abortions from coming into effect later this week. Judge Debbra Halford in Jackson, Mississippi denied a request by the state`s only abortion clinic to prevent officials from carrying out a near-total ban on abortion. The ban is due to come into effect on Thursday. Jackson Women`s Health Organization, the abortion clinic cited 1998 ruling by the Mississippi Supreme Court in which it was held that right to privacy under the state`s constitution included a right to abortion. However, Judge Halford expressed doubts that state high court would continue to uphold the decision. Rob McDuff, a lawyer for the Mississippi clinic, called the ruling disappointing and said they were considering their options. Mississippi is one of 13 states in the US where "trigger" laws are present. These laws are designed to ban/ restrict abortions once US Supreme Court overturned the landmark Roe v Wade judgment. The US Supreme Court on June 24 overturned the landmark ruling that provided constitutional access to abortions to women in the US. The conservative majority US Supreme Court`s decision gave states permission to ban abortion and nearly two dozen Republican-led states are now trying to do so, or have done so already. The decision has ignited a wave of litigation by clinics in various states aimed at preserving the ability of women to obtain abortions based on protections in state rather than federal constitutions, as well as nationwide protests. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Mississippi court refuses to block implementation of abortion ban

A judge in Mississippi has rejected a request from the state's only abortion clinic which aimed temporarily to block a new law outlawing the the procedure. The ruling means that the ban will take effect beginning tomorrow.

US: Mississippi court upholds abortion ban

Mississippi state’s lone abortion&nbsp;clinic, which was at the heart of the Roe v. Wade ruling being overturned, has shut down permanently as the trigger law takes effect in the US state.

On Wednesday, Jackson Women's Health Organisation, which is called the Pink House because of the building's colourful walls, performed the last abortion as demonstrators maintained a strict vigil outside the premises. Some pro-life agitators even stopped patients from entering the clinic in its final hours of operation.

"Today is a hard day for all of us @ the last abortion provider in Mississippi,” The Pink House Fund, which raised donations to keep the institution running, posted on Twitter.

"It is our last day fighting against all the odds —of being there when no other providers would or could. We are proud of the work we have done here."

The Clinic operators’ last hope of remaining open was hot down on Tuesday when a special judge denied a motion for a temporary injunction to block the law from taking effect.

A spokesperson for the Center for Reproductive Rights said since the state's trigger law takes effect on Thursday, the clinic will stop providing its abortion services by midnight, according to local reports.

The clinic operators earlier indicated that they have plans to shift the operation to New Mexico—which has no major restrictions in place to access abortions.

Jackson Women's Health came to the light after having triggered the legal process that eventually led to the US Supreme Court's June 24 decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, the 1973 ruling that had enshrined the nationwide right to abortion in the United States.

The clinic had filed a lawsuit against a Mississippi law that would restrict abortion to 15 weeks.

Mississippi's law, passed in 2007, carries penalties of up to 10 years in prison for violations, and provides exceptions only in cases of danger to the life of the mother -- but not for rape or incest.

The Pink House had asked local courts to block the law, but they refused, leaving the clinic with no choice but to close.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Mississippi state’s lone abortion clinic, which was at the heart of the Roe v. Wade ruling being overturned, has shut down permanently as the trigger law takes effect in the US state.

Mississippi state’s lone abortion clinic, which was at the heart of the Roe v. Wade ruling being overturned, has shut down permanently as the trigger law takes effect in the US state. On Wednesday, Jackson Women's Health Organisation, which is called the Pink House because of the building's colourful walls, performed the last abortion as demonstrators maintained a strict vigil outside the premises. Some pro-life agitators even stopped patients from entering the clinic in its final hours of operation. "Today is a hard day for all of us @ the last abortion provider in Mississippi,” The Pink House Fund, which raised donations to keep the institution running, posted on Twitter. "It is our last day fighting against all the odds —of being there when no other providers would or could. We are proud of the work we have done here." The Clinic operators’ last hope of remaining open was hot down on Tuesday when a special judge denied a motion for a temporary injunction to block the law from taking effect. A spokesperson for the Center for Reproductive Rights said since the state's trigger law takes effect on Thursday, the clinic will stop providing its abortion services by midnight, according to local reports. The clinic operators earlier indicated that they have plans to shift the operation to New Mexico—which has no major restrictions in place to access abortions. Jackson Women's Health came to the light after having triggered the legal process that eventually led to the US Supreme Court's June 24 decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, the 1973 ruling that had enshrined the nationwide right to abortion in the United States. The clinic had filed a lawsuit against a Mississippi law that would restrict abortion to 15 weeks. Mississippi's law, passed in 2007, carries penalties of up to 10 years in prison for violations, and provides exceptions only in cases of danger to the life of the mother -- but not for rape or incest. The Pink House had asked local courts to block the law, but they refused, leaving the clinic with no choice but to close. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US state’s lone abortion clinic at heart of Roe v. Wade case shuts down

Decades ago, the united states imported four Asian species of fish to help control algae growth in lagoons and fish farms and now these foreign species have infested the Mississippi river.

Illinois finds a solution to its Copi fish infestation

A tornado moved into southern US state Louisiana and struck parts of the state’s biggest city New Orleans and its suburbs. Residents were seen combing through the rubble of their homes. Homes were damaged in a dozen Mississippi counties.

Watch: Extensive damage as fierce tornado lashes New Orleans

Four deaths and multiple severe injuries have been confirmed as crews began fanning out in boats and off-road vehicles to search communities cut off by Hurricane Ida.

Ida, one of the most powerful hurricanes ever to hit the US Gulf Coast, had weakened to a tropical depression by as it churned over Mississippi, where the system brought heavy rains overnight.

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The crew got the blades turning a little early to be able to make two passes through the eye as Hurricane <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ida?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ida</a> made landfall. Here’s what we saw: <a href="https://t.co/BrwKwFVQiB">pic.twitter.com/BrwKwFVQiB</a>
— Hurricane Hunters (@53rdWRS) <a href="https://twitter.com/53rdWRS/status/1432081399570444288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 29, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Louisiana and Mississippi took stock of the disaster inflicted by Hurricane Ida, as receding floodwaters began to reveal the full extent of the damage.

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Flood defenses hold, 16 years after Katrina failure

New Orleans was still mostly without power nearly two days after Ida slammed into the Louisiana coast as a Category 4 storm, exactly 16 years after devastating Hurricane Katrina,&nbsp;which killed more than 1,800 people in 2005,&nbsp;made landfall.

But a $14.5 billion system of levees, flood gates, and pumps designed in the wake of Katrina's devastation largely worked as designed during Ida, officials said, sparing New Orleans from the catastrophic flooding that devastated the area 16 years ago.

The state's healthcare systems also appeared to have largely escaped catastrophic damage at a time when Louisiana is reeling from a resurgence of COVID-19 infections that has strained hospitals.

With water treatment plants overwhelmed by floodwaters or crippled by power outages, some places were also facing shortages of drinking water. About 441,000 people in 17 parishes had no water, and an additional 319,000 were under boil-water advisories, federal officials said.

President Joe Biden declared a major disaster for Louisiana and Mississippi, which gives the states access to federal aid.

Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards said his state had deployed more than 1,600 personnel for search and rescue operations, while the Pentagon said over 5,200 personnel from the military, federal emergency management, and National Guard had been activated across several southern states.

Climate change is fueling deadly and disastrous weather across the globe, including stronger and more damaging hurricanes.

Scientists have warned of a rise in cyclone activity as the ocean surface warms due to climate change, posing an increasing threat to the world's coastal communities.

(With inputs from agencies)

Four deaths and multiple severe injuries have been confirmed as crews began fanning out in boats and off-road vehicles to search communities cut off by Hurricane Ida.

Four deaths and multiple severe injuries have been confirmed as crews began fanning out in boats and off-road vehicles to search communities cut off by Hurricane Ida. Ida, one of the most powerful hurricanes ever to hit the US Gulf Coast, had weakened to a tropical depression by as it churned over Mississippi, where the system brought heavy rains overnight. The crew got the blades turning a little early to be able to make two passes through the eye as Hurricane #Ida made landfall. Here’s what we saw: pic.twitter.com/BrwKwFVQiB — Hurricane Hunters (@53rdWRS) August 29, 2021 × Louisiana and Mississippi took stock of the disaster inflicted by Hurricane Ida, as receding floodwaters began to reveal the full extent of the damage. Flood defenses hold, 16 years after Katrina failure New Orleans was still mostly without power nearly two days after Ida slammed into the Louisiana coast as a Category 4 storm, exactly 16 years after devastating Hurricane Katrina, which killed more than 1,800 people in 2005, made landfall. But a $14.5 billion system of levees, flood gates, and pumps designed in the wake of Katrina's devastation largely worked as designed during Ida, officials said, sparing New Orleans from the catastrophic flooding that devastated the area 16 years ago. The state's healthcare systems also appeared to have largely escaped catastrophic damage at a time when Louisiana is reeling from a resurgence of COVID-19 infections that has strained hospitals. With water treatment plants overwhelmed by floodwaters or crippled by power outages, some places were also facing shortages of drinking water. About 441,000 people in 17 parishes had no water, and an additional 319,000 were under boil-water advisories, federal officials said. President Joe Biden declared a major disaster for Louisiana and Mississippi, which gives the states access to federal aid. Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards said his state had deployed more than 1,600 personnel for search and rescue operations, while the Pentagon said over 5,200 personnel from the military, federal emergency management, and National Guard had been activated across several southern states. Climate change is fueling deadly and disastrous weather across the globe, including stronger and more damaging hurricanes. Scientists have warned of a rise in cyclone activity as the ocean surface warms due to climate change, posing an increasing threat to the world's coastal communities. (With inputs from agencies)

Four dead, multiple injured in sweltering aftermath of Hurricane Ida

&nbsp;A tornado tore through the southern US&nbsp;city of Tupelo on Sunday, blowing the roofs off homes and tearing down trees and power lines, but there were no immediate reports of injuries.

"Emergency crews are currently assessing the degree of damage," the mayor's office said in a statement on Facebook, urging people to stay in their homes.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="Residents in Mississippi in US without water for weeks">Residents in Mississippi in US without water for weeks</a>

Social media images and videos showed the roofs of many homes and buildings blown away, electricity lines down and streets in the Mississippi city swamped with debris.

"This is a life-threatening situation," the national weather service wrote on Twitter. "Please take shelter in the Tupelo area."

A tornado tore through the southern US city of Tupelo on Sunday, blowing the roofs off homes and tearing down trees and power lines, but there were no immediate reports of injuries.

A tornado tore through the southern US city of Tupelo on Sunday, blowing the roofs off homes and tearing down trees and power lines, but there were no immediate reports of injuries. "Emergency crews are currently assessing the degree of damage," the mayor's office said in a statement on Facebook, urging people to stay in their homes. Also read: Residents in Mississippi in US without water for weeks Social media images and videos showed the roofs of many homes and buildings blown away, electricity lines down and streets in the Mississippi city swamped with debris. "This is a life-threatening situation," the national weather service wrote on Twitter. "Please take shelter in the Tupelo area."

Tornado rips through Mississippi, damages buildings, power lines

Storms blasting through the southern United States have killed at least two people and injured others with fierce winds that toppled trees, smashed homes and flipped vehicles, authorities said Saturday.

Millions of people live in the storms' paths along the Gulf coast, including Florida, Mississippi, Alabama and Louisiana, where the fatalities were reported.

One man was killed and at least seven people were injured when high winds struck in the Saint Landry Parish area, also flipping some vehicles on a roadway, local authorities said.

A tree toppled as pounding winds hit Caddo Parish partially crushed a mobile home on Friday, killing a 48-year-old man, the sheriff's office said.

Large hail along Alabama's coast, some as large as baseballs or softballs, were reported to the National Weather Service.

Heavy rains are also expected with the weather system so flash floods were a possibility, according to forecasters, with the threat expected to wane by late Saturday.&nbsp;

Storms blasting through the southern United States have killed at least two people and injured others with fierce winds that toppled trees, smashed homes and flipped vehicles, authorities said Saturday.

Storms blasting through the southern United States have killed at least two people and injured others with fierce winds that toppled trees, smashed homes and flipped vehicles, authorities said Saturday. Millions of people live in the storms' paths along the Gulf coast, including Florida, Mississippi, Alabama and Louisiana, where the fatalities were reported. One man was killed and at least seven people were injured when high winds struck in the Saint Landry Parish area, also flipping some vehicles on a roadway, local authorities said. A tree toppled as pounding winds hit Caddo Parish partially crushed a mobile home on Friday, killing a 48-year-old man, the sheriff's office said. Large hail along Alabama's coast, some as large as baseballs or softballs, were reported to the National Weather Service. Heavy rains are also expected with the weather system so flash floods were a possibility, according to forecasters, with the threat expected to wane by late Saturday.

Deadly storms hit southern US coast

US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden </a>on Wednesday criticised Republican-ruled states Texas and Mississippi for dropping measures to wear masks, calling it "Neanderthal thinking".

"The last thing we need is Neanderthal thinking, that in the meantime everything's fine -- take off your mask, forget it. It still matters," the US president said.&nbsp;

Biden's remarks came after Texas Governor Greg Abbott lifted mask mandate in the state on Tuesday, saying it's time to open "100 per cent".

Watch |&nbsp;

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He said the opening of businesses up to 75 per cent have hurt small players and the state now has the "tools" to protect the Texans from the deadly virus.&nbsp;

Mississippi, which announced lifting compulsory mask-wearing on Wednesday hit back at Biden's comments, with Governor Tate Reeves saying "Mississippians don't need handlers". &nbsp;

"As numbers drop, they can assess their choices and listen to experts. I guess I just think we should trust Americans, not insult them," the Republican governor wrote in a tweet.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (USCDC) have also warned of dropping guard to prevent the spread of Covid-19, saying it could lead to a potential fourth wave of the virus in the country.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/adult-population-of-us-to-be-vaccinated-by-may-joe-biden-367551">Adult population of US to be vaccinated by May: Joe Biden</a>

"Now is not the time to release all restrictions," Rochelle Walensky, USCDC said.

"Continue wearing your well-fitted mask and taking the other public health prevention actions that we know work."&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden on Wednesday criticised Republican-ruled states Texas and Mississippi for dropping measures to wear masks, calling it "Neanderthal thinking".

US President Joe Biden on Wednesday criticised Republican-ruled states Texas and Mississippi for dropping measures to wear masks, calling it "Neanderthal thinking". "The last thing we need is Neanderthal thinking, that in the meantime everything's fine -- take off your mask, forget it. It still matters," the US president said. Biden's remarks came after Texas Governor Greg Abbott lifted mask mandate in the state on Tuesday, saying it's time to open "100 per cent". Watch | He said the opening of businesses up to 75 per cent have hurt small players and the state now has the "tools" to protect the Texans from the deadly virus. Mississippi, which announced lifting compulsory mask-wearing on Wednesday hit back at Biden's comments, with Governor Tate Reeves saying "Mississippians don't need handlers". "As numbers drop, they can assess their choices and listen to experts. I guess I just think we should trust Americans, not insult them," the Republican governor wrote in a tweet. Meanwhile, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (USCDC) have also warned of dropping guard to prevent the spread of Covid-19, saying it could lead to a potential fourth wave of the virus in the country. Also read | Adult population of US to be vaccinated by May: Joe Biden "Now is not the time to release all restrictions," Rochelle Walensky, USCDC said. "Continue wearing your well-fitted mask and taking the other public health prevention actions that we know work."

'Neanderthal thinking': Joe Biden slams Texas, Mississippi for dropping mask-wearing requirements

Residents in a city in USA's Mississippi state are without water for weeks, said media reports from number of credible outlets. Residents of Jackson, Mississippi have been facing this situation since a winter storm lashed the area in February. The storm interfered with the functioning of the city's water plant and broke water pipes that were frozen solid. The residents are even without drinking water.

As per reports, there are no sure signs of water supply getting restored in near future.

Since February 23, local authorities have issued advisories saying people should boil water before drinking it.

As citizens battled severe shortage of water, aging infrastructure is being blamed for failure to restore water supply. Public Works Director has been quoted by CNN as saying that the system "crashed like a computer". He added that the administration was working to bring the situation back to normal but that progress had been slow.

Angry residents are commenting on Jackson city's official Facebook page.

"Every year we have some type of issue with the water. This didn’t just start but every year you gotta PLAN and stop just trying to put a bandage on the problem WHEN it happens," writes Mary Evans Fox

People are understandably upset that the repair work is going on at Snail's pace

"The repairs are very slow. How many people are working on these breaks.? Have you contracted to get others on staff like the power company did?," wrote Charlotte Bryant

Marq McPherson voices concern about what is being reported in media about aging infrastructure in the city.

"Jackson has an incredibly old water infrastructure that has been ignored for the better part of 50 years..." says Marq

After February's winter storm, the weather has warmed and power is back, but citizens are still waiting for water supply to get restored.

Residents in a city in USA's Mississippi state are without water for weeks, said media reports from number of credible outlets. Residents of Jackson, Mississippi have been facing this situation since a winter storm lashed the area in February.

Residents in a city in USA's Mississippi state are without water for weeks, said media reports from number of credible outlets. Residents of Jackson, Mississippi have been facing this situation since a winter storm lashed the area in February. The storm interfered with the functioning of the city's water plant and broke water pipes that were frozen solid. The residents are even without drinking water. As per reports, there are no sure signs of water supply getting restored in near future. Since February 23, local authorities have issued advisories saying people should boil water before drinking it. As citizens battled severe shortage of water, aging infrastructure is being blamed for failure to restore water supply. Public Works Director has been quoted by CNN as saying that the system "crashed like a computer". He added that the administration was working to bring the situation back to normal but that progress had been slow. Angry residents are commenting on Jackson city's official Facebook page. "Every year we have some type of issue with the water. This didn’t just start but every year you gotta PLAN and stop just trying to put a bandage on the problem WHEN it happens," writes Mary Evans Fox People are understandably upset that the repair work is going on at Snail's pace "The repairs are very slow. How many people are working on these breaks.? Have you contracted to get others on staff like the power company did?," wrote Charlotte Bryant Marq McPherson voices concern about what is being reported in media about aging infrastructure in the city. "Jackson has an incredibly old water infrastructure that has been ignored for the better part of 50 years..." says Marq After February's winter storm, the weather has warmed and power is back, but citizens are still waiting for water supply to get restored.

Residents in Mississippi in US without water for weeks

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/us-election">2020 US election </a>is one of the most important in the history of the United States and a 99-year-old man from Mississippi is becoming an inspiration for reminding many how crucial it is to vote.&nbsp;

Dr Robert H. Smith Sr, of Jackson, Mississippi, was seen with an "I Voted" sticker after he cast an absentee ballot while wearing a face mask.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-election-2020-result-live-update-donald-trump-joe-biden-votes-tally-president-predictions-begins-vote-count-how-to-follow-the-2020-us-election-results-from-india-Trump-wins-Kentucky-joe-Biden-Vermont-340293">US election 2020 result LIVE updates: US media projects Biden at 126 electoral votes, Trump at 89</a>

"I remember when I couldn't vote," said Smith as quoted by ABC News, referring to complications involved with regards to Black Americans voting.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-election-2020-donald-trump-cuts-guest-list-of-white-house-party-says-he-may-address-the-nation-340332">Donald Trump cuts guest list of White House party, says he may address the nation</a>

Although the Black men were given the right to vote in 1870 with the 15th Amendment, it took decades for exercising this right and Smith, who was born as the son of a sharecropper also faced the same hurdles.&nbsp;

Despite coming from a humble background, Smith is one of the first from his family who finished high school and got a PhD degree.&nbsp;

He also served the US Army during the Second World War and was and was later promoted to the chief warrant officer's rank in the European Theater of Operations.

Smith, who waited for about 20 minutes with his son to cast his ballot last month, said he proud of overcoming the challenges he encountered throughout his lifetime.&nbsp;

"Voting is an experience that every American citizen should have," Smith said, adding, "we the people decide who's going to be our leader." 
&nbsp;

The 2020 US election is one of the most important in the history of the United States and a 99-year-old man from Mississippi is becoming an inspiration for reminding many how crucial it is to vote.

The 2020 US election is one of the most important in the history of the United States and a 99-year-old man from Mississippi is becoming an inspiration for reminding many how crucial it is to vote. Dr Robert H. Smith Sr, of Jackson, Mississippi, was seen with an "I Voted" sticker after he cast an absentee ballot while wearing a face mask. Also read | US election 2020 result LIVE updates: US media projects Biden at 126 electoral votes, Trump at 89 "I remember when I couldn't vote," said Smith as quoted by ABC News, referring to complications involved with regards to Black Americans voting. Also read | Donald Trump cuts guest list of White House party, says he may address the nation Although the Black men were given the right to vote in 1870 with the 15th Amendment, it took decades for exercising this right and Smith, who was born as the son of a sharecropper also faced the same hurdles. Despite coming from a humble background, Smith is one of the first from his family who finished high school and got a PhD degree. He also served the US Army during the Second World War and was and was later promoted to the chief warrant officer's rank in the European Theater of Operations. Smith, who waited for about 20 minutes with his son to cast his ballot last month, said he proud of overcoming the challenges he encountered throughout his lifetime. "Voting is an experience that every American citizen should have," Smith said, adding, "we the people decide who's going to be our leader."

99-year-old votes in US election 2020, remembers time when he couldn't vote

At least 26 lawmakers from the Mississippi legislature have been diagnosed with the coronavirus in the biggest known outbreak in any state legislature in the United States. That works out to about 1 in 7 Mississippi legislators.

None of the lawmakers has been hospitalised, according to state officials.

US President Donald Trump has resisted wearing a mask, and many other Republicans around the country have cast face coverings and social distancing as an infringement on their freedom. But around the Mississippi Capitol, wearing a mask was compulsory.

In addition to the legislators, at least 10 people who work in the Capitol have been diagnosed with the virus.

Mississippi has seen a rapid rise in confirmed cases in the past two weeks, with the total hitting nearly 33,600 by Wednesday, including at least 1,200 deaths.

Mississippi legislators were supposed to meet from January through April but went home in mid-March because of the outbreak. They returned briefly in May during a feud with the governor over spending coronavirus relief money from the federal government.

At least 73 lawmakers in 27 states have tested positive for the coronavirus since the outbreak began. Three lawmakers have died, in Louisiana, Michigan and South Dakota.

At least 26 lawmakers from the Mississippi legislature have been diagnosed with the coronavirus in the biggest known outbreak in any state legislature in the United States.

At least 26 lawmakers from the Mississippi legislature have been diagnosed with the coronavirus in the biggest known outbreak in any state legislature in the United States. That works out to about 1 in 7 Mississippi legislators. None of the lawmakers has been hospitalised, according to state officials. US President Donald Trump has resisted wearing a mask, and many other Republicans around the country have cast face coverings and social distancing as an infringement on their freedom. But around the Mississippi Capitol, wearing a mask was compulsory. In addition to the legislators, at least 10 people who work in the Capitol have been diagnosed with the virus. Mississippi has seen a rapid rise in confirmed cases in the past two weeks, with the total hitting nearly 33,600 by Wednesday, including at least 1,200 deaths. Mississippi legislators were supposed to meet from January through April but went home in mid-March because of the outbreak. They returned briefly in May during a feud with the governor over spending coronavirus relief money from the federal government. At least 73 lawmakers in 27 states have tested positive for the coronavirus since the outbreak began. Three lawmakers have died, in Louisiana, Michigan and South Dakota.

Big coronavirus outbreak in US' Mississippi legislature; 26 lawmakers test positive

Amid rising protest against the racism faced by the African-American community in the US, several institutions and organisations are doing their best to show solidarity with the 'Black Lives Matter' campaign.

In such an attempt, the state of Mississippi might change or remove the confederate symbol from its flag. Lawmakers are getting ready to cast vote to pass a bill to remove the Confederate battle emblem from the state flag.

Tate Reeves, the 65th Governor of Mississippi, on Saturday said he is willing to sign a bill to change the flag if the Legislature passes one. This is coming after he previously said he would not veto a bill.

"The legislature has been deadlocked for days as it considers a new state flag. The argument over the 1894 flag has become as divisive as the flag itself and it’s time to end it," he tweeted.

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The legislature has been deadlocked for days as it considers a new state flag. The argument over the 1894 flag has become as divisive as the flag itself and it’s time to end it. 
If they send me a bill this weekend, I will sign it. <a href="https://t.co/bf3vyzuObt">pic.twitter.com/bf3vyzuObt</a>
— Tate Reeves (@tatereeves) <a href="https://twitter.com/tatereeves/status/1276883982974627840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The problem that arises is that the&nbsp;Mississippi's annual legislative session is almost over. As it takes two-thirds majority of the House and Senate to consider a bill after the deadline has passed, the leaders and lawmakers are working their way to secure these majorities.

First, the lawmakers will have to secure a majority, and then they have to secure a majority to pass it to the Governor. The whole process, which could take anything between one to three days, is underway right now.

The state of Mississippi is the only one in the US which has a confederate symbol in its flag now. The symbol has been a part of the flag since 1894, when white supremacists added it to the flag as a silent protests against the rise in political power of the African-American community post the Civil War.

Amid rising protest against the racism faced by the African-American community in the US, several institutions and organisations are doing their best to show solidarity with the 'Black Lives Matter' campaign.

Amid rising protest against the racism faced by the African-American community in the US, several institutions and organisations are doing their best to show solidarity with the 'Black Lives Matter' campaign. In such an attempt, the state of Mississippi might change or remove the confederate symbol from its flag. Lawmakers are getting ready to cast vote to pass a bill to remove the Confederate battle emblem from the state flag. Tate Reeves, the 65th Governor of Mississippi, on Saturday said he is willing to sign a bill to change the flag if the Legislature passes one. This is coming after he previously said he would not veto a bill. "The legislature has been deadlocked for days as it considers a new state flag. The argument over the 1894 flag has become as divisive as the flag itself and it’s time to end it," he tweeted. The legislature has been deadlocked for days as it considers a new state flag. The argument over the 1894 flag has become as divisive as the flag itself and it’s time to end it. If they send me a bill this weekend, I will sign it. pic.twitter.com/bf3vyzuObt — Tate Reeves (@tatereeves) June 27, 2020 × The problem that arises is that the Mississippi's annual legislative session is almost over. As it takes two-thirds majority of the House and Senate to consider a bill after the deadline has passed, the leaders and lawmakers are working their way to secure these majorities. First, the lawmakers will have to secure a majority, and then they have to secure a majority to pass it to the Governor. The whole process, which could take anything between one to three days, is underway right now. The state of Mississippi is the only one in the US which has a confederate symbol in its flag now. The symbol has been a part of the flag since 1894, when white supremacists added it to the flag as a silent protests against the rise in political power of the African-American community post the Civil War.

Mississippi gears up to remove Confederate symbol from state flag

The lawmakers in&nbsp;Mississippi have passed a resolution paving way to strip the Confederate emblem from the&nbsp;state flag.

The state House and Senate both approved a resolution to suspend legislative deadlines and introduce a bill to have a commission redesign the 126-year-old state flag.&nbsp;

The vote passed in both chambers of the Mississippi legislature: in the House of Representatives by a margin of 84-35, and then in the Senate by 36-14.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mississippi-gears-up-to-remove-confederate-symbol-from-state-flag-309080">Mississippi gears up to remove Confederate symbol from state flag</a>

The resolution calls for the immediate removal of the current flag and for a commission to design a new flag in which all Confederate symbols will be removed and the words "In God We Trust" will be added. The new design will be put to a public vote in November.&nbsp;

Mississippi is the last state in the US to feature the emblem on its flag.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/statue-of-confederate-general-toppled-in-washington-trump-calls-it-a-disgrace-307290">Statue of Confederate general toppled in Washington, Trump calls it a 'disgrace'</a>

The resolution comes as&nbsp;Confederate monuments of all kinds&nbsp;are being banned, removed and transformed across the nation after protests and demonstrations erupted in response to&nbsp;systemic racism against Black Americans.&nbsp;

The Confederate emblem is viewed by many as a racist symbol, with recent protests over the death of George Floyd reigniting debate over its use.

The flag was originally used by the slave-owning states who lost the US Civil War (1860-65).

The lawmakers in Mississippi have passed a resolution paving way to strip the Confederate emblem from the state flag. The state House and Senate both approved a resolution to suspend legislative deadlines and introduce a bill to have a commission redesign the 126-year-old state flag.

The lawmakers in Mississippi have passed a resolution paving way to strip the Confederate emblem from the state flag. The state House and Senate both approved a resolution to suspend legislative deadlines and introduce a bill to have a commission redesign the 126-year-old state flag. The vote passed in both chambers of the Mississippi legislature: in the House of Representatives by a margin of 84-35, and then in the Senate by 36-14. Also read: Mississippi gears up to remove Confederate symbol from state flag The resolution calls for the immediate removal of the current flag and for a commission to design a new flag in which all Confederate symbols will be removed and the words "In God We Trust" will be added. The new design will be put to a public vote in November. Mississippi is the last state in the US to feature the emblem on its flag. Also read: Statue of Confederate general toppled in Washington, Trump calls it a 'disgrace' The resolution comes as Confederate monuments of all kinds are being banned, removed and transformed across the nation after protests and demonstrations erupted in response to systemic racism against Black Americans. The Confederate emblem is viewed by many as a racist symbol, with recent protests over the death of George Floyd reigniting debate over its use. The flag was originally used by the slave-owning states who lost the US Civil War (1860-65).

US: Mississippi lawmakers pass resolution to remove Confederate emblem from state flag

At least six people have died after tornadoes ripped through the southern US state of Mississippi on Sunday, officials said.

The tornadoes caused "catastrophic" damage, according to US media, and prompted the National Weather Service (NWS) to issue a tornado emergency, its highest level of tornado alert.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/with-over-21300-coronavirus-deaths-us-spends-easter-sunday-on-lockdown-292129" hreflang="en">With over 21,300 coronavirus deaths, US spends Easter Sunday on lockdown</a>

The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MSEMA) reported one death in Walthall County, two in Lawrence County and three in Jefferson Davis County, all of which are in the southern part of the state.

"These are initial reports and will continue to update when info becomes available," the agency tweeted.

The Storm Prediction Center said it expected "severe thunderstorms" to continue through the night in Mississippi, as well as in neighboring states Alabama and Georgia.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elderly-may-have-to-self-isolate-for-the-entire-year-or-until-a-vaccine-is-ready-292058" hreflang="en">Elderly may have to self-isolate for the entire year, or until a vaccine is ready</a>

"Strong tornadoes, widespread damaging winds, and large hail are all possible," the center added.

Mississippi governor Tate Reeves urged state residents to take the "severe storms very seriously."

The NWS just issued a solemn, rare warning: a 'PDS' (Particularly Dangerous Situation) tornado watch," he tweeted Sunday afternoon.

"Please take precautions to keep your family safe."

He later retweeted a message from MSEMA reminding residents to "wear a mask, bandana, or scarf around your nose and mouth" and to "practice social distancing" to prevent the spread of the coronavirus if they had to go to a public storm shelter.

At least six people have died after tornadoes ripped through the southern US state of Mississippi on Sunday, officials said. The tornadoes caused "catastrophic" damage, according to US media, and prompted the National Weather Service (NWS) to issue a tornado emergency, its highest level of tornado alert.

At least six people have died after tornadoes ripped through the southern US state of Mississippi on Sunday, officials said. The tornadoes caused "catastrophic" damage, according to US media, and prompted the National Weather Service (NWS) to issue a tornado emergency, its highest level of tornado alert. Also read: With over 21,300 coronavirus deaths, US spends Easter Sunday on lockdown The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MSEMA) reported one death in Walthall County, two in Lawrence County and three in Jefferson Davis County, all of which are in the southern part of the state. "These are initial reports and will continue to update when info becomes available," the agency tweeted. The Storm Prediction Center said it expected "severe thunderstorms" to continue through the night in Mississippi, as well as in neighboring states Alabama and Georgia. Also read: Elderly may have to self-isolate for the entire year, or until a vaccine is ready "Strong tornadoes, widespread damaging winds, and large hail are all possible," the center added. Mississippi governor Tate Reeves urged state residents to take the "severe storms very seriously." The NWS just issued a solemn, rare warning: a 'PDS' (Particularly Dangerous Situation) tornado watch," he tweeted Sunday afternoon. "Please take precautions to keep your family safe." He later retweeted a message from MSEMA reminding residents to "wear a mask, bandana, or scarf around your nose and mouth" and to "practice social distancing" to prevent the spread of the coronavirus if they had to go to a public storm shelter.

At least six dead in US state of Mississippi after tornadoes

Authorities in Louisiana and Mississippi rescued people from their homes after heavy rains this weekend caused major flooding in the region.

Heavy rains in southern US leave some trapped

A powerful, late-winter "bomb cyclone" storm pushed into the US Midwest and the Great Lakes region on Friday, causing flooding along the Mississippi and Missouri rivers, stranding herds of cattle and raising alarms at a Nebraska nuclear power plant.

Nebraska Governor Pete Ricketts issued an emergency declaration for the state, citing forecasts of up to 2 feet (0.61 m) of snow and high winds that are expected to make travel "difficult to impossible" on roads.&nbsp;

"Nebraskans should watch the forecast closely in the coming days and be prepared for severe weather events in conjunction with potential historic flooding," Ricketts said in the declaration. "As Nebraskans know, conditions can change quickly, and everyone needs to be prepared."

Ranchers posted images on social media of their cattle being dug out of snowdrifts or stranded in fields.&nbsp;

"Widespread and extremely dangerous flooding will continue today and tonight," the National Weather Service office in Omaha, Nebraska, said on Friday in a statement.

Many streams will see moderate to major flooding through the weekend, the service said, and flooding along the Missouri River will continue into next week.

Meteorologists referred to the storm as a "bomb cyclone," a winter hurricane that forms when the barometric pressure drops 24 millibars in 24 hours.

The Nebraska Public Power District declared an "unusual event" at its Cooper Nuclear Station power plant on Friday due to the possibility of flooding along the Missouri.

Workers filled sandbags along the river levee and procured other materials for flood protection, the agency said. It said the plant continued to operate safely and there was no immediate threat to plant employees or to the public.

In Iowa, a disaster proclamation by Governor Kim Reynolds, issued after reports of flooding on Thursday, remained in effect.

At the storm`s peak, 2 feet of snow was dumped on Colorado`s mountain regions, forcing the cancellation of more than 1,300 flights in Denver and stranding more than 1,000 motorists on roadsides. Many had to be rescued by police, who used school buses to ferry them to safety.&nbsp;

More than 1,200 flights were cancelled nationwide on Friday and nearly 17,000 were delayed, according to the flight-tracking website Flightaware.com.

Most power outages were cleared by early Friday, according to the tracking site PowerOutage.

A powerful, late-winter "bomb cyclone" storm pushed into the US Midwest and the Great Lakes region on Friday, causing flooding along the Mississippi and Missouri rivers, stranding herds of cattle and raising alarms at a Nebraska nuclear power plant.

A powerful, late-winter "bomb cyclone" storm pushed into the US Midwest and the Great Lakes region on Friday, causing flooding along the Mississippi and Missouri rivers, stranding herds of cattle and raising alarms at a Nebraska nuclear power plant. Nebraska Governor Pete Ricketts issued an emergency declaration for the state, citing forecasts of up to 2 feet (0.61 m) of snow and high winds that are expected to make travel "difficult to impossible" on roads. "Nebraskans should watch the forecast closely in the coming days and be prepared for severe weather events in conjunction with potential historic flooding," Ricketts said in the declaration. "As Nebraskans know, conditions can change quickly, and everyone needs to be prepared." Ranchers posted images on social media of their cattle being dug out of snowdrifts or stranded in fields. "Widespread and extremely dangerous flooding will continue today and tonight," the National Weather Service office in Omaha, Nebraska, said on Friday in a statement. Many streams will see moderate to major flooding through the weekend, the service said, and flooding along the Missouri River will continue into next week. Meteorologists referred to the storm as a "bomb cyclone," a winter hurricane that forms when the barometric pressure drops 24 millibars in 24 hours. The Nebraska Public Power District declared an "unusual event" at its Cooper Nuclear Station power plant on Friday due to the possibility of flooding along the Missouri. Workers filled sandbags along the river levee and procured other materials for flood protection, the agency said. It said the plant continued to operate safely and there was no immediate threat to plant employees or to the public. In Iowa, a disaster proclamation by Governor Kim Reynolds, issued after reports of flooding on Thursday, remained in effect. At the storm`s peak, 2 feet of snow was dumped on Colorado`s mountain regions, forcing the cancellation of more than 1,300 flights in Denver and stranding more than 1,000 motorists on roadsides. Many had to be rescued by police, who used school buses to ferry them to safety. More than 1,200 flights were cancelled nationwide on Friday and nearly 17,000 were delayed, according to the flight-tracking website Flightaware.com. Most power outages were cleared by early Friday, according to the tracking site PowerOutage.

'Bomb cyclone' triggers flooding on Mississippi, Missouri rivers

Republican Cindy Hyde-Smith won a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-republican-senators-rejects-trumps-embrace-of-saudi-after-murder-of-khashoggi-179406">US Senate special election</a> runoff in conservative Mississippi on Tuesday, defeating a black challenger after a campaign that recalled the history of racist violence in the deep South state.

The white former state lawmaker, who was appointed to the Senate in April, overcame a controversy over her comment on public hangings to defeat Democrat Mike Espy in the last contest of the 2018 election cycle.

Hyde-Smith, 59, is the first woman elected to Congress from Mississippi. If Espy had won, he would have been the first black senator from Mississippi since shortly after the Civil War.

Having been heavily favoured to win the reliably Republican state, Hyde-Smith became engulfed in a political storm over a video showing her praising a supporter at a November 2 event by saying, "If he invited me to a public hanging, I'd be on the front row."

The video sparked a furore in a state with a history of racism and violence against blacks, including lynchings, and fueled Democratic hopes of an upset in a state where 38 per cent of the population is black.

But Hyde-Smith triumphed by depicting Espy as too liberal for Mississippi, which last elected a Democrat to the Senate in 1982, and by touting her support for President Donald Trump, who won the state by 18 percentage points in 2016.

Trump attended two get-out-the-vote rallies in the state on Monday and tweeted his congratulations to Hyde-Smith after the race was called, saying he was "very proud" of her.

"Mr President, thank you so much for all of your help," Hyde-Smith said in a victory speech to supporters, calling her to win a triumph of "conservative values."

"Mississippians know me and they know my heart," she said.

Her victory means Republicans will hold a 53-47 majority in the new US Senate that convenes in January. With almost all precincts tallied, Hyde-Smith led by nearly 8 percentage points.

Espy, 64, campaigned as a moderate who would work with Trump and Republicans to benefit the state. He tried to recreate the coalition that propelled Democrat Doug Jones to a Senate win in neighbouring Alabama last year by energizing black voters, particularly women, and winning support from white swing voters.

Espy said he called Hyde-Smith to concede the race and wish her well.

"She has my prayers as she goes to Washington to unite a very divided Mississippi," he told supporters.

The runoff to serve the last two years of former Republican Senator Thad Cochran's term was necessary because neither Espy nor Hyde-Smith gained more than 50 per cent of the vote in a November 6 special election with four candidates. Cochran, 80, resigned earlier this year, citing health concerns.

Several businesses, including giant retailer Walmart, had demanded Hyde-Smith return their donations after her public hanging remark.

She sparked further controversy when she was shown on another video joking about suppressing liberal student votes, and photographs surfaced of her posing with Confederate artefacts in 2014.

She initially refused to apologize for the hanging remark, but said in a debate last week that she was sorry "for anyone that was offended." She accused Espy of twisting her words for political gain.

Espy denied the charge and said, "we all know what came out of your mouth." He has said the comment perpetuated negative stereotypes about Mississippi and hurt investment.

Republican Cindy Hyde-Smith won a US Senate special election runoff in conservative Mississippi on Tuesday, defeating a black challenger after a campaign that recalled the history of racist violence in the deep South state.

Republican Cindy Hyde-Smith won a US Senate special election runoff in conservative Mississippi on Tuesday, defeating a black challenger after a campaign that recalled the history of racist violence in the deep South state. The white former state lawmaker, who was appointed to the Senate in April, overcame a controversy over her comment on public hangings to defeat Democrat Mike Espy in the last contest of the 2018 election cycle. Hyde-Smith, 59, is the first woman elected to Congress from Mississippi. If Espy had won, he would have been the first black senator from Mississippi since shortly after the Civil War. Having been heavily favoured to win the reliably Republican state, Hyde-Smith became engulfed in a political storm over a video showing her praising a supporter at a November 2 event by saying, "If he invited me to a public hanging, I'd be on the front row." The video sparked a furore in a state with a history of racism and violence against blacks, including lynchings, and fueled Democratic hopes of an upset in a state where 38 per cent of the population is black. But Hyde-Smith triumphed by depicting Espy as too liberal for Mississippi, which last elected a Democrat to the Senate in 1982, and by touting her support for President Donald Trump, who won the state by 18 percentage points in 2016. Trump attended two get-out-the-vote rallies in the state on Monday and tweeted his congratulations to Hyde-Smith after the race was called, saying he was "very proud" of her. "Mr President, thank you so much for all of your help," Hyde-Smith said in a victory speech to supporters, calling her to win a triumph of "conservative values." "Mississippians know me and they know my heart," she said. Her victory means Republicans will hold a 53-47 majority in the new US Senate that convenes in January. With almost all precincts tallied, Hyde-Smith led by nearly 8 percentage points. Espy, 64, campaigned as a moderate who would work with Trump and Republicans to benefit the state. He tried to recreate the coalition that propelled Democrat Doug Jones to a Senate win in neighbouring Alabama last year by energizing black voters, particularly women, and winning support from white swing voters. Espy said he called Hyde-Smith to concede the race and wish her well. "She has my prayers as she goes to Washington to unite a very divided Mississippi," he told supporters. The runoff to serve the last two years of former Republican Senator Thad Cochran's term was necessary because neither Espy nor Hyde-Smith gained more than 50 per cent of the vote in a November 6 special election with four candidates. Cochran, 80, resigned earlier this year, citing health concerns. Several businesses, including giant retailer Walmart, had demanded Hyde-Smith return their donations after her public hanging remark. She sparked further controversy when she was shown on another video joking about suppressing liberal student votes, and photographs surfaced of her posing with Confederate artefacts in 2014. She initially refused to apologize for the hanging remark, but said in a debate last week that she was sorry "for anyone that was offended." She accused Espy of twisting her words for political gain. Espy denied the charge and said, "we all know what came out of your mouth." He has said the comment perpetuated negative stereotypes about Mississippi and hurt investment.

Republican Hyde-Smith wins racially charged US Senate race in Mississippi

A US federal judge on Tuesday struck <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/argentine-lawmakers-approve-bill-to-legalise-abortion-144406">down a Mississippi law that bans</a> most abortions after 15 weeks, ruling that it "unequivocally" violates women's constitutional rights.

The law, considered one of the most restrictive in the country, was passed in March. It had already been put on hold by US District Judge Carlton Reeves after the state's lone abortion clinic, Jackson Women's Health Organization, immediately sued.

Under US Supreme Court precedent, states may not ban abortions before a fetus is viable, and the medical consensus is that viability typically begins between 23 and 24 weeks, Reeves wrote on Tuesday.

The judge acknowledged feeling "frustration" that Mississippi lawmakers passed the statute even though similar bans in other states have also been thrown out by federal courts.

"The real reason we are here is simple. The state chose to pass a law it knew was unconstitutional to endorse a decades-long campaign, fueled by national interest groups, to ask the Supreme Court to overturn Roe v. Wade," Reeves wrote, referring to the landmark 1973 US Supreme Court case that established a legal framework for abortion.

"This court follows the commands of the Supreme Court and the dictates of the United States Constitution, rather than the disingenuous calculations of the Mississippi Legislature," he added.

Governor Phil Bryant was travelling and was not immediately available to comment, according to his office. The state attorney general's office, which defended the law in court, did not immediately comment on the ruling.

The decision effectively invalidates a similar 15-week ban in Louisiana, which was set to take effect only if the Mississippi law survived a court challenge.

"Today's decision should be a wake-up call for state lawmakers who are continuously trying to chip away at abortion access," Nancy Northup, president and CEO of the Center for Reproductive Rights, which filed the lawsuit on behalf of the abortion clinic, said in a statement.

Abortion rights advocates have warned that the Roe precedent could be vulnerable following the October confirmation of Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh, who is widely seen as an abortion foe.

Other states have sought to install severe restrictions in the hope of provoking a legal fight at the nation's top court. The Republican-controlled Ohio House of Representatives last week approved a measure that would ban abortions at six weeks, while Iowa's law banning abortions after a fetal heartbeat is detected is tied up in a court battle.

A US federal judge on Tuesday struck down a Mississippi law that bans most abortions after 15 weeks, ruling that it "unequivocally" violates women's constitutional rights.

A US federal judge on Tuesday struck down a Mississippi law that bans most abortions after 15 weeks, ruling that it "unequivocally" violates women's constitutional rights. The law, considered one of the most restrictive in the country, was passed in March. It had already been put on hold by US District Judge Carlton Reeves after the state's lone abortion clinic, Jackson Women's Health Organization, immediately sued. Under US Supreme Court precedent, states may not ban abortions before a fetus is viable, and the medical consensus is that viability typically begins between 23 and 24 weeks, Reeves wrote on Tuesday. The judge acknowledged feeling "frustration" that Mississippi lawmakers passed the statute even though similar bans in other states have also been thrown out by federal courts. "The real reason we are here is simple. The state chose to pass a law it knew was unconstitutional to endorse a decades-long campaign, fueled by national interest groups, to ask the Supreme Court to overturn Roe v. Wade," Reeves wrote, referring to the landmark 1973 US Supreme Court case that established a legal framework for abortion. "This court follows the commands of the Supreme Court and the dictates of the United States Constitution, rather than the disingenuous calculations of the Mississippi Legislature," he added. Governor Phil Bryant was travelling and was not immediately available to comment, according to his office. The state attorney general's office, which defended the law in court, did not immediately comment on the ruling. The decision effectively invalidates a similar 15-week ban in Louisiana, which was set to take effect only if the Mississippi law survived a court challenge. "Today's decision should be a wake-up call for state lawmakers who are continuously trying to chip away at abortion access," Nancy Northup, president and CEO of the Center for Reproductive Rights, which filed the lawsuit on behalf of the abortion clinic, said in a statement. Abortion rights advocates have warned that the Roe precedent could be vulnerable following the October confirmation of Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh, who is widely seen as an abortion foe. Other states have sought to install severe restrictions in the hope of provoking a legal fight at the nation's top court. The Republican-controlled Ohio House of Representatives last week approved a measure that would ban abortions at six weeks, while Iowa's law banning abortions after a fetal heartbeat is detected is tied up in a court battle.

US judge dismisses ban on abortions after 15 weeks in Mississippi

A Jackson, Mississippi, woman was shot and killed by police early Saturday after she fled a traffic stop and tried to hit two officers with her car, police said.

The woman, identified by police as Crystaline Barnes, 21, was shot around 7:30 am&nbsp;Saturday after she reportedly forced another motorist off the road, local media including CBS affiliate WJTV reported. When police stopped her, she tried to flee in her car, reversed direction, and then drove at the officers, according to the WJTV report.

Jackson Police said in an official statement that the &quot;Incident has resulted in the driver being shot after attempting to strike officers.&quot;

No other information was immediately available about the shooting.

Jackson Police said in an official statement that the "Incident has resulted in the driver being shot after attempting to strike officers."

A Jackson, Mississippi, woman was shot and killed by police early Saturday after she fled a traffic stop and tried to hit two officers with her car, police said. The woman, identified by police as Crystaline Barnes, 21, was shot around 7:30 am Saturday after she reportedly forced another motorist off the road, local media including CBS affiliate WJTV reported. When police stopped her, she tried to flee in her car, reversed direction, and then drove at the officers, according to the WJTV report. Jackson Police said in an official statement that the "Incident has resulted in the driver being shot after attempting to strike officers." No other information was immediately available about the shooting.

Motorist shot dead after trying to run over Mississippi police officers

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