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As many as four people were killed while another was severely injured after a hot-air balloon crashed in the Arizona desert on Sunday (Jan 14), according to the local police.&nbsp;

The fatal crash took place near Eloy just before 8 in the morning. There were a total of 13 people in the balloon with eight jumping out of it before the crash happened. Five people remained inside, including the pilot and four who were along for the ride.&nbsp;

In the press release by the police department, it was mentioned that one of the four victims died at the scene and three were taken to a local hospital where they succumbed to the injuries. The fourth one remains hospitalised.&nbsp;

"A tragic hot air balloon crash occurred at approximately 7:50 AM today in the desert area east of Sunshine Blvd. and Hanna Rd. in Eloy, AZ. The Eloy Police Department regretfully confirms that there are four deceased individuals and one person in critical condition as a result of this incident," the Eloy Police Department informed.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-two-dead-a-child-injured-after-hot-air-balloon-catches-fire-mid-air-in-mexico-578162">Video | Hot air balloon catches fire mid-air in Mexico; two dead, a child injured</a>

<h2>Cause of the incident?</h2>

The cause of the crash remains unknown at this stage but officials from the&nbsp;National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) arrived at&nbsp;the scene and took&nbsp;over the investigation.&nbsp;

The Eloy Police Department said it was withholding the names of the victims out of respect for their privacy.&nbsp;

According to a witness, who saw the last 10 seconds of the balloon's fatal freefall, said the otherwise puffy object looked deflated, shapeless and coming straight down to the ground.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hot-air-balloon-crash-injures-11-in-new-zealand-397085">Also read |&nbsp;Hot air balloon crash injures 11 in New Zealand</a>

The city's mayor, Micah Powell said the area where the incident took place is a popular location for skydivers and is "very well-known and loved" among enthusiasts.

“It’s a sad, sad situation.&nbsp;Our hearts go out to those families who lost loved ones," he said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

As many as four people were killed while another was severely injured after a hot-air balloon crashed in the Arizona desert on Sunday (Jan 14), according to the local police.

As many as four people were killed while another was severely injured after a hot-air balloon crashed in the Arizona desert on Sunday (Jan 14), according to the local police. The fatal crash took place near Eloy just before 8 in the morning. There were a total of 13 people in the balloon with eight jumping out of it before the crash happened. Five people remained inside, including the pilot and four who were along for the ride. In the press release by the police department, it was mentioned that one of the four victims died at the scene and three were taken to a local hospital where they succumbed to the injuries. The fourth one remains hospitalised. "A tragic hot air balloon crash occurred at approximately 7:50 AM today in the desert area east of Sunshine Blvd. and Hanna Rd. in Eloy, AZ. The Eloy Police Department regretfully confirms that there are four deceased individuals and one person in critical condition as a result of this incident," the Eloy Police Department informed. Video | Hot air balloon catches fire mid-air in Mexico; two dead, a child injured Cause of the incident? The cause of the crash remains unknown at this stage but officials from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) arrived at the scene and took over the investigation. The Eloy Police Department said it was withholding the names of the victims out of respect for their privacy. According to a witness, who saw the last 10 seconds of the balloon's fatal freefall, said the otherwise puffy object looked deflated, shapeless and coming straight down to the ground. Also read | Hot air balloon crash injures 11 in New Zealand The city's mayor, Micah Powell said the area where the incident took place is a popular location for skydivers and is "very well-known and loved" among enthusiasts. “It’s a sad, sad situation. Our hearts go out to those families who lost loved ones," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

US: 4 dead, 1 severely injured in hot-air balloon crash in Arizona desert

In a huge setback to Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, oppostion party Maldives Democratic Party (MDP)'s candidate Adam Azim won the mayoral elections of Male amid the ongoing diplomatic standoff with India.

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North Korea on Monday (Jan 15) announced it had tested a new solid-fuel immediate-range hypersonic missile, according to state news agency KCNA, a day after South Korea said its arch-rival had fired an unidentified ballistic missile towards the East Sea.&nbsp;

Pyongyang said the missile launch was aimed at testing the reliability of new multi-stage, high-trust solid fuel engines and that it did not pose a security threat to the neighbouring countries.&nbsp;

"The test-fire was aimed at verifying the gliding and manoeuvring characteristics of intermediate-range hypersonic manoeuvrable controlled warhead and the reliability of newly developed multi-stage high-thrust solid-fuel engines. The test fire was successfully conducted," said KCNA.&nbsp;

"The launch never affected the security of any neighbouring country and had nothing to do with the regional situation," it added.&nbsp;

The state agency did not mention if leader Kim Jong-Un was present at the site to oversee the launch.&nbsp;

According to reports, the testing of the hypersonic missile was the first launch by Pyongyang this year which is now attempting to develop weapons with enhanced precision and ability to better penetrate missile defences.&nbsp;

The launch also comes after Kim branded South Korea his principal enemy and warned he would not hesitate to annihilate Seoul, as he toured major weapons factories last week.

"The historic time has come at last when we should define as a state most hostile toward the Democratic People's Republic of Korea the entity called the Republic of Korea (South Korea)," said Kim.&nbsp;

Also watch:&nbsp;Why did North Korea's Kim Jong Un not celebrate his 40th birthday?

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<h2>What did S Korea claim?</h2>

On Sunday (Jan 14), the South Korean military said its neighbour had fired an unidentified ballistic missile towards the East Sea days after it staged live-fire exercises near the tense maritime border.

"North Korea fires unidentified ballistic missile towards East Sea," Seoul's Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a statement, referring to the body of water also known as the Sea of Japan. He, however, gave no further details.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-leader-kim-brands-seoul-principal-enemy-on-weapons-factory-tour-678716">North Korean leader Kim brands Seoul ‘principal enemy’ during weapons factory tour</a>

Japan, meanwhile, said that an object, potentially a ballistic missile, was from North Korea and warned vessels to take care.

(With inputs from agencies)

North Korea on Monday (Jan 15) announced it had tested a new solid-fuel immediate-range hypersonic missile, according to state news agency KCNA, a day after South Korea said its arch-rival had fired an unidentified ballistic missile towards the East Sea.

North Korea on Monday (Jan 15) announced it had tested a new solid-fuel immediate-range hypersonic missile, according to state news agency KCNA, a day after South Korea said its arch-rival had fired an unidentified ballistic missile towards the East Sea. Pyongyang said the missile launch was aimed at testing the reliability of new multi-stage, high-trust solid fuel engines and that it did not pose a security threat to the neighbouring countries. "The test-fire was aimed at verifying the gliding and manoeuvring characteristics of intermediate-range hypersonic manoeuvrable controlled warhead and the reliability of newly developed multi-stage high-thrust solid-fuel engines. The test fire was successfully conducted," said KCNA. "The launch never affected the security of any neighbouring country and had nothing to do with the regional situation," it added. The state agency did not mention if leader Kim Jong-Un was present at the site to oversee the launch. According to reports, the testing of the hypersonic missile was the first launch by Pyongyang this year which is now attempting to develop weapons with enhanced precision and ability to better penetrate missile defences. The launch also comes after Kim branded South Korea his principal enemy and warned he would not hesitate to annihilate Seoul, as he toured major weapons factories last week. "The historic time has come at last when we should define as a state most hostile toward the Democratic People's Republic of Korea the entity called the Republic of Korea (South Korea)," said Kim. Also watch: Why did North Korea's Kim Jong Un not celebrate his 40th birthday? What did S Korea claim? On Sunday (Jan 14), the South Korean military said its neighbour had fired an unidentified ballistic missile towards the East Sea days after it staged live-fire exercises near the tense maritime border. "North Korea fires unidentified ballistic missile towards East Sea," Seoul's Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a statement, referring to the body of water also known as the Sea of Japan. He, however, gave no further details. Also read: North Korean leader Kim brands Seoul ‘principal enemy’ during weapons factory tour Japan, meanwhile, said that an object, potentially a ballistic missile, was from North Korea and warned vessels to take care. (With inputs from agencies)

A day after Seoul's claims, N Korea says it fired solid-fuel hypersonic missile

Residents returned briefly to an evacuated fishing town in Iceland on Thursday for the first time since a volcanic eruption to check on their homes and collect some belongings. Scientists who flew over the area on Thursday said lava flows had continued to diminish and no volcanic activity was visible.

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Multiple warnings have gone unheard in Taiwan as the island chose Lai Chingte as its next President. Beijing had said choosing the democratic progressive party leader would mean choosing war, but it still failed to sway voters. Taiwan says China has to face the reality, but China remains stern in its stance as it continues to remind the world that reunification is inevitable.

Taiwan chooses Lai Ching-Te as president, what now?

Facebook ads have emerged featuring Deepfake images of UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, research by the communications company, uncovered such 143 fake ads on social network platform.

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Zambians on Monday blamed their local government for failing to provide clean water as deaths from cholera rose to 350 in the country's most populous province.

Cholera outbreak claims 350 more lives in Zambia

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Tensions in the Korean peninsula are on the rise after North Korea launched an intermediate range missile into the sea. The country says it was a new intermediate-range ballistic missile on Sunday.

North Korea says it tested solid-fuel missiles | What is solid fuel technology? | World DNA

The Philippines military chief General Romeo Brawner told reporters on Monday (Jan 15) that it will develop islands in the South China Sea that it considers part of its territory. The nation is aiming to make the islands more habitable for troops.&nbsp;

The announcement might further escalate the tensions between China and the Philippines as both assert claims over territory in the South China Sea.&nbsp;Beijing and Manila have also traded accusations of aggressive behaviour in the strategic waterway.&nbsp;

The Philippines occupies eight other features in the South China Sea apart from the Second Thomas Shoal, locally known as Ayungin. It considers them part of its exclusive economic zone.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-tourists-stranded-by-avalanches-in-xinjiang-airlifted-to-safety-680218">China: Tourists stranded by avalanches in Xinjiang airlifted to safety</a>&nbsp;

After attending a command conference led by Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr at the military headquarters, Brawner said, "We'd like to improve all the nine, especially the islands we are occupying."&nbsp;

Brawner said the country would develop "the islands and other features" it held. The features include Thitu island, the biggest and most strategically important in the South China Sea.&nbsp;

"We are just trying to make it more liveable, more habitable for our soldiers because they really have poor living conditions," he told reporters.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/red-sea-attacks-spark-global-inflation-fears-disrupting-supply-chains-680168">Red Sea attacks spark global inflation fears, disrupting supply chains</a>&nbsp;

Thitu, known locally as Pag-asa, is located about 300 miles (480 kilometres) west of the Philippine province of Palawan.&nbsp;

Brawner added that the military wants to bring a desalination machine for troops living aboard a warship that the Philippines deliberately grounded on the Second Thomas Shoal in 1999 to assert its sovereignty claim.&nbsp;

He clarified that the plan did not include "fortifying the Sierra Madre", the World War II-vintage ship grounded on Second Thomas Shoal by the Philippine Navy in 1999 to assert the country's territorial claims.&nbsp;

Besides the Philippines, Brunei, China, Malaysia, Taiwan and Vietnam have competing claims of sovereignty in the South China Sea, a conduit for goods in excess of $3 trillion every year.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Red Sea tensions continue to simmer | US war aircraft shoots down Houthi missile&nbsp;

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<h2>Chinese military drills</h2>

China held military drills in the South China Sea earlier this month, and the United States and the Philippines conducted their own joint exercises in the same waters.&nbsp;

The drills came after weeks of heated standoffs between China and the Philippines over disputed reefs in the area, including a collision involving vessels from both countries and Chinese ships firing water cannons at Philippine boats.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Philippines military chief General Romeo Brawner told reporters on Monday (Jan 15) that it will develop islands in the South China Sea that it considers part of its territory.

The Philippines military chief General Romeo Brawner told reporters on Monday (Jan 15) that it will develop islands in the South China Sea that it considers part of its territory. The nation is aiming to make the islands more habitable for troops. The announcement might further escalate the tensions between China and the Philippines as both assert claims over territory in the South China Sea. Beijing and Manila have also traded accusations of aggressive behaviour in the strategic waterway. The Philippines occupies eight other features in the South China Sea apart from the Second Thomas Shoal, locally known as Ayungin. It considers them part of its exclusive economic zone. Also read: China: Tourists stranded by avalanches in Xinjiang airlifted to safety After attending a command conference led by Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr at the military headquarters, Brawner said, "We'd like to improve all the nine, especially the islands we are occupying." Brawner said the country would develop "the islands and other features" it held. The features include Thitu island, the biggest and most strategically important in the South China Sea. "We are just trying to make it more liveable, more habitable for our soldiers because they really have poor living conditions," he told reporters. Also read: Red Sea attacks spark global inflation fears, disrupting supply chains Thitu, known locally as Pag-asa, is located about 300 miles (480 kilometres) west of the Philippine province of Palawan. Brawner added that the military wants to bring a desalination machine for troops living aboard a warship that the Philippines deliberately grounded on the Second Thomas Shoal in 1999 to assert its sovereignty claim. He clarified that the plan did not include "fortifying the Sierra Madre", the World War II-vintage ship grounded on Second Thomas Shoal by the Philippine Navy in 1999 to assert the country's territorial claims. Besides the Philippines, Brunei, China, Malaysia, Taiwan and Vietnam have competing claims of sovereignty in the South China Sea, a conduit for goods in excess of $3 trillion every year. Watch: Red Sea tensions continue to simmer | US war aircraft shoots down Houthi missile × Chinese military drills China held military drills in the South China Sea earlier this month, and the United States and the Philippines conducted their own joint exercises in the same waters. The drills came after weeks of heated standoffs between China and the Philippines over disputed reefs in the area, including a collision involving vessels from both countries and Chinese ships firing water cannons at Philippine boats. (With inputs from agencies)

Philippines to develop islands in disputed South China Sea that it considers part of territory

UK to deploy 20,000 troops alongside nato allies in a major show of strength. Grant Shapps set out his vision for deterring threats, leading among allies, and defending the UK as ‘the foundations of the world order are being shaken to their core’. Meanwhile, the UN seeks $4.2 Billion to support refugees of the Russia-Ukraine war. The agency seeks funding to aid 8.5 million people in war-ravaged spots and 2.3 million refugees.

UK to send 20,000 service personnel for NATO’s military exercises

Turkish police held 18 people over "praising terrorism", the authorities said on Monday (Jan 15), while in northern Iraq a senior member of the banned Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) was "neutralised."

On Friday (Jan 12), at least nine Turkish soldiers were killed in clashes with the PKK in northern Iraq which further prompted Ankara to conduct air strikes and operations in Iraq as well as northern Syria.

Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya took to his official social media handle and in a posting said that the police had detained 18 people for "praising a terrorist organisation", "spreading terrorism propaganda," and "spreading misleading information" over Turkey's operations in Iraq.

Yerlikaya added that arrest warrants were issued for 19 others in Turkey as well as 133 living abroad.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-claims-it-shot-down-anti-ship-cruise-missile-from-houthi-area-of-yemen-targeting-uss-laboon-679991">US claims it shot down anti-ship cruise missile from Houthi area of Yemen</a>

<h2>Turkey launches attacks against Kurdish 'terrorist targets' in Iraq, Syria</h2>

Turkey carried out another series of its air operations in northern Iraq and Syria in retaliation to the deaths of nine Turkish soldiers, the authorities said on Sunday (Jan 14).

"In accordance with our right to self-defence... air operations were carried out against terrorist targets in northern Iraq in the regions of Metina, Hakurk, Gara, Qandil and Asos, and in northern Syria," the Turkish defence ministry said in a statement.

WATCH |&nbsp;Turkey launches airstrikes against Kurdish militants in Iraq and Syria

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&nbsp;

The Turkish military claimed to have hit 24 targets, "including caves, shelters, ammunition and equipment depots, housing and gas factories" used by Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) fighters.

Earlier on Sunday (Jan 14), the official Turkish news agency Anadolu reported that a total of 23 targets, comprising bases and arms depots, were destroyed in northern Syria.

Turkey on Saturday announced that it had struck 54 "targets" in Syria and Iraq that were affiliated with the PKK and the People's Protection Units (YPG).

A Turkish security source said that the National Intelligence Agency (MIT) had "neutralised" Hulya Mercen, a high-ranking PKK member who had previously carried out several attacks on Turkish troops in the Metina region in northern Iraq.

(With inputs from agencies)

Turkish police held 18 people over "praising terrorism", the authorities said on Monday (Jan 15), while in northern Iraq a senior member of the banned Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) was "neutralised.

Turkish police held 18 people over "praising terrorism", the authorities said on Monday (Jan 15), while in northern Iraq a senior member of the banned Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) was "neutralised." On Friday (Jan 12), at least nine Turkish soldiers were killed in clashes with the PKK in northern Iraq which further prompted Ankara to conduct air strikes and operations in Iraq as well as northern Syria. Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya took to his official social media handle and in a posting said that the police had detained 18 people for "praising a terrorist organisation", "spreading terrorism propaganda," and "spreading misleading information" over Turkey's operations in Iraq. Yerlikaya added that arrest warrants were issued for 19 others in Turkey as well as 133 living abroad. Also read: US claims it shot down anti-ship cruise missile from Houthi area of Yemen Turkey launches attacks against Kurdish 'terrorist targets' in Iraq, Syria Turkey carried out another series of its air operations in northern Iraq and Syria in retaliation to the deaths of nine Turkish soldiers, the authorities said on Sunday (Jan 14). "In accordance with our right to self-defence... air operations were carried out against terrorist targets in northern Iraq in the regions of Metina, Hakurk, Gara, Qandil and Asos, and in northern Syria," the Turkish defence ministry said in a statement. WATCH | Turkey launches airstrikes against Kurdish militants in Iraq and Syria × The Turkish military claimed to have hit 24 targets, "including caves, shelters, ammunition and equipment depots, housing and gas factories" used by Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) fighters. Earlier on Sunday (Jan 14), the official Turkish news agency Anadolu reported that a total of 23 targets, comprising bases and arms depots, were destroyed in northern Syria. Turkey on Saturday announced that it had struck 54 "targets" in Syria and Iraq that were affiliated with the PKK and the People's Protection Units (YPG). A Turkish security source said that the National Intelligence Agency (MIT) had "neutralised" Hulya Mercen, a high-ranking PKK member who had previously carried out several attacks on Turkish troops in the Metina region in northern Iraq. (With inputs from agencies)

Turkey detains 18 people for ‘praising terrorist organisation’ after killing of soldiers in Iraq

US military has reported shooting down a cruise missile aimed at an American destroyer in the Red Sea on Sunday. The US military confirmed intercepting an anti-ship cruise missile. The missile was reportedly fired from Houthi-controlled areas towards the USS Laoon belonging to the American Navy.

US war aircraft shoots down Houthi missile

On Monday, when the Midwestern state kicks off the 2024 White House nomination race with its caucuses, farmers from Iowa have decided to choose Florida Governor Ron DeSantis over frontrunner and former president Donald Trump. Watch this report for more details.

Race to the White House 2024: Iowa caucus Republican's first political contest of 2024

Growing number of countries are working to get Russia on the table for peace talks with Ukraine representatives from more than 83 countries - talks in Davos seeking common ground on a peace formula for the Russia-Ukraine war.

Ukraine 10-point peace formula continues to take centre stage, 83 delegations to attend Davos talks

Iowa Republicans are caucusing Monday to decide their state’s GOP presidential nominee, officially kick-starting the 2024 election.

Iowa Caucus 2024:  Litmus test for GOP candidates

Some tourists who had been stranded for several days after avalanches hit highways leading to a winter tourism area in China's Xinjiang region were lifted by a helicopter to safety, local media reported on Sunday (Jan 14). According to reports, days of heavy snow in Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region triggered dozens of avalanches on large sections of highways in the Altay mountains leading to the Kanas scenic area.

A report by CCTV said that around six kilometres of highways were buried. A report by the Xinhua news agency said that snow and avalanches had blocked many roads leading to Kanas, Hemu, Baihaba and other scenic spots in Burqin County.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-warns-of-potential-resurgence-of-covid-driven-by-jn1-subvariant-680083">China warns of potential resurgence of Covid driven by JN.1 subvariant</a>

In a notice, the Kanas scenic area management committee said&nbsp;that stranded tourists would be given accommodation free of charge. On Monday, the committee said that it had closed the area until Saturday (Jan 20) due to the recent extreme weather to ensure the personal safety of tourists.&nbsp;

Over the weekend, the crew of an army aviation brigade in Xinjiang loaded fuel, generators, rice, flour, oil, and other materials onto a helicopter and went to Kanas. Upon reaching the area, the crew quickly unloaded the supplies.&nbsp;

At the same time, some of the people trapped boarded the helicopter and were transferred from the Kanas Visitor Centre to Kanas Airport.

However, after completing this mission, the weather changed abruptly leading to a suspension in additional rescue efforts.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Some tourists who had been stranded for several days after avalanches hit highways leading to a winter tourism area in China's Xinjiang region were lifted by a helicopter to safety, local media reported on Sunday (Jan 14).

Some tourists who had been stranded for several days after avalanches hit highways leading to a winter tourism area in China's Xinjiang region were lifted by a helicopter to safety, local media reported on Sunday (Jan 14). According to reports, days of heavy snow in Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region triggered dozens of avalanches on large sections of highways in the Altay mountains leading to the Kanas scenic area. A report by CCTV said that around six kilometres of highways were buried. A report by the Xinhua news agency said that snow and avalanches had blocked many roads leading to Kanas, Hemu, Baihaba and other scenic spots in Burqin County. Also read: China warns of potential resurgence of Covid driven by JN.1 subvariant In a notice, the Kanas scenic area management committee said that stranded tourists would be given accommodation free of charge. On Monday, the committee said that it had closed the area until Saturday (Jan 20) due to the recent extreme weather to ensure the personal safety of tourists. Over the weekend, the crew of an army aviation brigade in Xinjiang loaded fuel, generators, rice, flour, oil, and other materials onto a helicopter and went to Kanas. Upon reaching the area, the crew quickly unloaded the supplies. At the same time, some of the people trapped boarded the helicopter and were transferred from the Kanas Visitor Centre to Kanas Airport. However, after completing this mission, the weather changed abruptly leading to a suspension in additional rescue efforts. (With inputs from agencies)

China: Tourists stranded by avalanches in Xinjiang airlifted to safety

The Israel-Hamas war reached a grim milestone of 100 days on Sunday, with more civilian deaths in Gaza and relatives of dozens of hostages still awaiting their freedom. The war is now being termed the longest, bloodiest, and most destructive conflict between the two territories.

Israel-Hamas war | Hamas armed-wing spokesman: Fate of many hostages unknown | World DNA

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Pakistan’s Supreme Court late Saturday (Jan 13) stripped the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) off its iconic ‘bat’ election symbol, a move after which those contesting in elections from the party will have to fight as independent candidates. This is a major setback for Pakistan's jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan.

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Ukraine peace talks: 83 delegations to attend Davos talks amid eroding support for Kyiv

A US delegation, including two former senior US officials, has arrived in Taiwan for post-election talks. This, along with reinforcing the US goernment's time-honoured interest in maintaining peace across the Taiwan Strait. Their arrival comes a day after Lai Ching-Te, from Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party or DPP won the presidential elections on Saturday.

Japan lauds Lai Ching Te's victory in Taiwan, China warns Japan to not meddle with internal matters

The French island of La Reunion in the Indian Ocean issued its maximum-level cyclone alert, on Monday (Jan 15) morning, urging citizens to stay indoors, cut power, and not use tap water, placing hundreds of thousands of people under a strict lockdown as Cyclone Belal ripped through the territory. The storm has also caused the death of one person, according to AFP.&nbsp;

<h2>Highest weather emergency</h2>

On Monday, Cyclone Belal hit Reunion, one of France’s overseas territories in the Indian Ocean east of Madagascar is said to be moving in from the northwest packing “extreme winds,” according to Meteo-France. The island&nbsp;territory issued its highest cyclone warning for the first time since 1989.&nbsp;

“The eye of the storm is passing over the Reunion Island, starting from the northern part,” said France’s weather agency, in its recent update.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-winter-storm-millions-face-below-zero-temperatures-amid-dangerous-arctic-freeze-680179">US winter storm: Millions face below-zero temperatures amid dangerous Arctic freeze</a>

Prefect Jerome Filippini, the island’s top Paris-appointed official, told France Inter, a major French public radio channel, that the initial damage was still moderate. He added, “one homeless person who had not taken shelter” died as a result of the storm in the resort village of Saint-Gilles.&nbsp;

The winds due to the storm could exceed 250 kilometres per hour in the highlands prompting the officials to place the island’s 870,000 inhabitants, including the emergency services, on strict lockdown.

“Take refuge in the safest room of your homes,” the local prefect’s office said on social media. The statement added, “Do not go out on whatever pretext, even if the weather is calm. This is probably the eye of the cyclone.”

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🇷🇪 [ LA RÉUNION ] 
 
Le cyclone <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Belal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Belal</a> va toucher l’île. Il n’est plus prévu de s’intensifier au stade de “cyclone tropical intense”. Il reste très dangereux ! Alerte violette en cours. 
 
Les vents à La Montagne, Saint-Denis 
 
(15/01/24 📹 via X_otik)<a href="https://t.co/RgLcAtHYht">pic.twitter.com/RgLcAtHYht</a>
— Alexandre (@alex_le_bars) <a href="https://twitter.com/alex_le_bars/status/1746741267248099716?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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In line with the so-called violet alert, which is France’s most serious, residents are not allowed to leave their bases from 6:00 am (local time). Cyclonic sea waves of up to 12-15 metres are also expected, according to Meteo-France.&nbsp;

Many took to social media, on Monday morning to post images and videos of the cyclone. However, the damage caused due to the heavy winds and rainfall was not immediately clear.

<h2>Mauritius braces for Cyclone Belal</h2>

Cyclone Belal “is now heading towards Mauritius,” said the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) Africa, the world’s largest humanitarian network, in a post on X, on Monday (Jan 15).&nbsp;

The humanitarian organisation also shared images of the flood-hit capital city of Port Louis, adding “Mauritius Red Cross stands ready to assist local authorities.”&nbsp;

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Triggering the highest alert, cyclone <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Belal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Belal</a> hit La Réunion today, resulting in 1 fatality &amp; temporary displacement of 636 people. As <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Belal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Belal</a> is now heading towards Mauritius, Port-Louis is affected by floods (in pics). Mauritius Red Cross stands ready to assist local authorities. <a href="https://t.co/vitpnholQJ">pic.twitter.com/vitpnholQJ</a>
— IFRC Africa (@IFRCAfrica) <a href="https://twitter.com/IFRCAfrica/status/1746848705674711418?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Mauritius was also bracing for what the officials of the island nation have described as “dangerously approaching” cyclone Belal after hitting the French overseas territory.&nbsp;

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The Mauritius Meteorological Services have issued a warning level three – out of four – for the cyclone and urged the people to stay in a safe place, with “torrential rain conditions” expected in the coming hours.

“On this trajectory, Belal is dangerously approaching Mauritius and it represents a threat for Mauritius,” said the meteorological office, in a statement.&nbsp;

It added, “The radius of cyclonic winds is likely to cross the southern part of the island and Belal is expected to pass closer to the south of the island early tomorrow (Tuesday) morning.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The French island of La Reunion in the Indian Ocean issued its maximum-level cyclone alert, on Monday (Jan 15) morning, urging citizens to stay indoors, cut power, and not use tap water, placing hundreds of thousands of people under a strict lockdown as Cyclone Belal ripped through the territory.

The French island of La Reunion in the Indian Ocean issued its maximum-level cyclone alert, on Monday (Jan 15) morning, urging citizens to stay indoors, cut power, and not use tap water, placing hundreds of thousands of people under a strict lockdown as Cyclone Belal ripped through the territory. The storm has also caused the death of one person, according to AFP. Highest weather emergency On Monday, Cyclone Belal hit Reunion, one of France’s overseas territories in the Indian Ocean east of Madagascar is said to be moving in from the northwest packing “extreme winds,” according to Meteo-France. The island territory issued its highest cyclone warning for the first time since 1989. “The eye of the storm is passing over the Reunion Island, starting from the northern part,” said France’s weather agency, in its recent update. ALSO READ | US winter storm: Millions face below-zero temperatures amid dangerous Arctic freeze Prefect Jerome Filippini, the island’s top Paris-appointed official, told France Inter, a major French public radio channel, that the initial damage was still moderate. He added, “one homeless person who had not taken shelter” died as a result of the storm in the resort village of Saint-Gilles. The winds due to the storm could exceed 250 kilometres per hour in the highlands prompting the officials to place the island’s 870,000 inhabitants, including the emergency services, on strict lockdown. “Take refuge in the safest room of your homes,” the local prefect’s office said on social media. The statement added, “Do not go out on whatever pretext, even if the weather is calm. This is probably the eye of the cyclone.” 🇷🇪 [ LA RÉUNION ] Le cyclone #Belal va toucher l’île. Il n’est plus prévu de s’intensifier au stade de “cyclone tropical intense”. Il reste très dangereux ! Alerte violette en cours. Les vents à La Montagne, Saint-Denis (15/01/24 📹 via X_otik)pic.twitter.com/RgLcAtHYht — Alexandre (@alex_le_bars) January 15, 2024 × In line with the so-called violet alert, which is France’s most serious, residents are not allowed to leave their bases from 6:00 am (local time). Cyclonic sea waves of up to 12-15 metres are also expected, according to Meteo-France. Many took to social media, on Monday morning to post images and videos of the cyclone. However, the damage caused due to the heavy winds and rainfall was not immediately clear. Mauritius braces for Cyclone Belal Cyclone Belal “is now heading towards Mauritius,” said the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) Africa, the world’s largest humanitarian network, in a post on X, on Monday (Jan 15). The humanitarian organisation also shared images of the flood-hit capital city of Port Louis, adding “Mauritius Red Cross stands ready to assist local authorities.” Triggering the highest alert, cyclone #Belal hit La Réunion today, resulting in 1 fatality & temporary displacement of 636 people. As #Belal is now heading towards Mauritius, Port-Louis is affected by floods (in pics). Mauritius Red Cross stands ready to assist local authorities. pic.twitter.com/vitpnholQJ — IFRC Africa (@IFRCAfrica) January 15, 2024 × Mauritius was also bracing for what the officials of the island nation have described as “dangerously approaching” cyclone Belal after hitting the French overseas territory. ALSO READ | Volcano erupts near Icelandic fishing town, sets houses on fire The Mauritius Meteorological Services have issued a warning level three – out of four – for the cyclone and urged the people to stay in a safe place, with “torrential rain conditions” expected in the coming hours. “On this trajectory, Belal is dangerously approaching Mauritius and it represents a threat for Mauritius,” said the meteorological office, in a statement. It added, “The radius of cyclonic winds is likely to cross the southern part of the island and Belal is expected to pass closer to the south of the island early tomorrow (Tuesday) morning.” (With inputs from agencies)

Video | Cyclone Belal: France’s Reunion island declares highest weather emergency, one killed

A T'Way Air flight 216, a Boeing 737-800 with 122 passengers on board, faced a harrowing situation when a bird struck its starboard engine, leading to an emergency landing. The incident occurred as the plane was about to land at Incheon airport in South Korea&nbsp;around 9:30 pm.

According to TBS News Dig, a local outlet, a bird collided with the starboard engine during the approach, causing the engine to catch fire.

Alarming scenes unfolded as flames erupted from the engine, nearly reaching the plane's tail. The pilot decided to abort the initial landing, opting for an emergency landing to ensure the safety of the passengers and crew.

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<h2>Dramatic footage on social media</h2>

The severity of the situation was captured in a video shared on social media.

Clips from local Japanese television stations depicted the plane on fire as it attempted to land. Passengers on board also recorded footage showing flames sputtering from the engine, intensifying the tension during the emergency.

Watch the video here:

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A passenger, speaking to TBS News Dig, shared the emotional turmoil during the incident. "My hands were shaking, and my family couldn't even speak a single word, so I was really scared. I don't think I'll ever be able to fly again," expressed an unidentified passenger, highlighting the trauma experienced on board.

In a separate incident, All Nippon Airways' domestic flight 1182 faced safety concerns mid-air. The Boeing 737-800 aircraft, en route to Toyama airport, returned to Sapporo-New Chitose airport after a crack was discovered on the cockpit window. There were no reported injuries among the 59 passengers and six crew members.

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The flight, operating in Japanese airspace, detected a crack on the outermost layer of the cockpit window, prompting the decision to return to the departure airport. Despite the mid-air disruption, all passengers and crew members remained unharmed.

Adding to the recent string of aviation incidents, an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737-9 MAX faced an emergency landing after one of its doors blew open minutes after take-off.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A T'Way Air flight 216, a Boeing 737-800 with 122 passengers on board, faced a harrowing situation when a bird struck its starboard engine, leading to an emergency landing.

A T'Way Air flight 216, a Boeing 737-800 with 122 passengers on board, faced a harrowing situation when a bird struck its starboard engine, leading to an emergency landing. The incident occurred as the plane was about to land at Incheon airport in South Korea around 9:30 pm. According to TBS News Dig, a local outlet, a bird collided with the starboard engine during the approach, causing the engine to catch fire. Alarming scenes unfolded as flames erupted from the engine, nearly reaching the plane's tail. The pilot decided to abort the initial landing, opting for an emergency landing to ensure the safety of the passengers and crew. Also read | Alaska Incident: Which Indian airlines fly the Boeing 737 MAX? Dramatic footage on social media The severity of the situation was captured in a video shared on social media. Clips from local Japanese television stations depicted the plane on fire as it attempted to land. Passengers on board also recorded footage showing flames sputtering from the engine, intensifying the tension during the emergency. Watch the video here: × A passenger, speaking to TBS News Dig, shared the emotional turmoil during the incident. "My hands were shaking, and my family couldn't even speak a single word, so I was really scared. I don't think I'll ever be able to fly again," expressed an unidentified passenger, highlighting the trauma experienced on board. In a separate incident, All Nippon Airways' domestic flight 1182 faced safety concerns mid-air. The Boeing 737-800 aircraft, en route to Toyama airport, returned to Sapporo-New Chitose airport after a crack was discovered on the cockpit window. There were no reported injuries among the 59 passengers and six crew members. Also read | Boeing 737 Max 9 door blowout: US Aviation watchdog increases oversight of Boeing The flight, operating in Japanese airspace, detected a crack on the outermost layer of the cockpit window, prompting the decision to return to the departure airport. Despite the mid-air disruption, all passengers and crew members remained unharmed. Adding to the recent string of aviation incidents, an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737-9 MAX faced an emergency landing after one of its doors blew open minutes after take-off. (With inputs from agencies)

Boeing plane carrying 122 passengers in Japan erupts in flames after bird hit

As part of initiatives to eradicate corruption in China's armed forces, a senior commander of the People's Liberation Army has demanded stricter rules and improved supervision of influential figures.

China’s military graft-busters told to scrutinise the powerful officials

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