Severe rainfall in Central Texas has resulted in flash flooding on the Guadalupe River, leading to at least 80 fatalities, including 28 children. Hundreds of searchers are currently scouring the affected areas as dozens remain unaccounted for. Forecasters have issued warnings for additional rain and potential flash flooding in regions already impacted.
The tragic incident has left ten girls from a summer camp missing, with victims including children aged 8 and 9. The first flash-flood warning was issued just before midnight on Thursday, and by 4 a.m. Friday, local authorities urged residents and campers to seek higher ground as the Guadalupe River rose dramatically.
Concerns have been raised regarding staffing shortages at local National Weather Service offices, which may have hindered effective coordination with emergency management during the crisis. Experts note that extreme rainfall events like this are becoming more frequent globally due to climate change driven by fossil fuel emissions.
In other news, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is scheduled to meet with President Trump in Washington to discuss a potential cease-fire in Gaza. Trump expressed hope for an initial truce this week, which would involve Hamas releasing hostages and could lead to an end to the ongoing conflict that began with the Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023. Negotiators from Israel have been sent to Qatar to facilitate discussions with Hamas regarding a 60-day truce.
Opposition to the war in Gaza is growing within Israel, with many questioning the military's continued presence, especially following the deaths of over 20 soldiers in the past month. Gaza health officials report that more than 55,000 Palestinians have died since the conflict began.
In cultural news, the Dalai Lama, who recently celebrated his 90th birthday, has stated that China will not influence the selection of his successor. However, there are indications that Chinese authorities may challenge the chosen successor and attempt to appoint their own Dalai Lama, potentially escalating tensions.
In lighter news, the Seine River in Paris has reopened for public swimming after a century-long ban due to pollution and boat traffic. The river's improved water quality has made it safe for swimming once again, much to the delight of locals and visitors alike.
Additionally, a long-lost Stradivarius violin, known as the Mendelssohn, may have been located after decades of searching by the Mendelssohn-Bohnke family. A scholar identified a violin resembling the Mendelssohn in a 2018 exhibition, leading experts to believe they have found the missing instrument.
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