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The Actual News

Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

US News

Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

Gaza ceasefire talks begin in Qatar as Netanyahu heads to Washington

Gaza ceasefire talks begin in Qatar as Netanyahu heads to Washington

Summary

Delegations from Israel and Hamas are holding indirect ceasefire talks in Qatar. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is going to Washington to discuss the situation with U.S. President Donald Trump. Both sides have conditions for a ceasefire, and mediators from Qatar and Egypt are working to find common ground.

Key Facts

  • Israel and Hamas began indirect ceasefire talks in Qatar.
  • Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu is meeting with U.S. President Trump in Washington.
  • Israel aims to release hostages, weaken Hamas, and eliminate threats from Gaza.
  • Hamas wants all hostilities to end and Israeli troop withdrawal as part of the deal.
  • Qatari and Egyptian mediators are involved in the ceasefire discussions.
  • Israel resumed its military operations against Hamas and imposed a blockade on Gaza.
  • The blockade was partially lifted a few weeks ago to allow some aid into Gaza.
  • The Israeli military reported striking 130 Hamas targets recently.
  • Over 57,000 people have died in Gaza since October 2023 due to the conflict.
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Texas officials race to find survivors after devastating floods

Texas officials race to find survivors after devastating floods

Summary

Texas officials are working to find survivors after severe flash floods caused many deaths and missing people, including children. They have managed to rescue over 850 individuals, but search efforts continue with more than 1,000 people involved. Authorities are urging residents to stay safe and avoid flooded areas, as more rain is expected.

Key Facts

  • A severe flash flood in Central Texas caused the deaths of at least 78 people, with many still missing.
  • In Kerr County alone, 68 people died, including 40 adults and 28 children.
  • Over 850 people have been rescued, many by helicopters.
  • More than 1,000 people are helping with search-and-rescue operations across several counties.
  • Authorities are searching for missing girls and a counselor from a summer camp near the Guadalupe River.
  • Officials warn residents to avoid using drones in search areas, as they interfere with rescue operations.
  • Flash flood warnings are in effect due to more expected rain, urging people to be cautious and avoid driving on flooded roads.
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Pressure from Trump for trade deals before July 9 deadline, but hints of more time for talks

Pressure from Trump for trade deals before July 9 deadline, but hints of more time for talks

Summary

The Trump administration is pressing countries to make new trade deals by a Wednesday deadline, with plans to send letters warning of higher tariffs starting August 1. So far, only the United Kingdom and Vietnam have announced deals. The U.S. aims to apply maximum pressure to negotiate, with the possibility of extending deadlines if countries negotiate in good faith.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. plans to warn countries about increased tariffs set for August 1.
  • Trump administration aims to quickly secure new trade deals by a Wednesday deadline.
  • Only the United Kingdom and Vietnam have announced new trade deals so far.
  • Donald Trump might extend negotiation deadlines if countries show they are negotiating in good faith.
  • New tariffs could include increased rates on steel, aluminum, and autos.
  • Proposed changes affect countries with trade surpluses with the U.S. and could result in trade wars.
  • Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent mentioned that more deals are close to being finalized but gave no specific details.
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How good was the forecast? Texas officials and the National Weather Service disagree

How good was the forecast? Texas officials and the National Weather Service disagree

Summary

Heavy rain caused severe flooding along the Guadalupe River in central Texas, resulting in at least 78 deaths, primarily in Kerr County. The National Weather Service (NWS) issued flood warnings, but many were still caught off-guard by the storm's intensity, leading to disagreements between the NWS and Texas officials about the accuracy of the forecasts.

Key Facts

  • Flooding along the Guadalupe River in Texas led to at least 78 deaths.
  • Most fatalities occurred in Kerr County, with 68 deaths reported.
  • Texas officials and the National Weather Service disagree on the accuracy of the storm forecasts.
  • The NWS issued flood watches and flash flood warnings on Thursday, before the flooding.
  • The Guadalupe River’s water level rose by 26 feet in 45 minutes.
  • Search and rescue operations were needed to save hundreds of stranded people.
  • The NWS stated that predicting precise rainfall locations is challenging.
  • A flash flood emergency was declared for parts of Kerr County early Friday morning.
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Ground crews and volunteers race to find those still missing after Texas floods

Ground crews and volunteers race to find those still missing after Texas floods

Summary

Heavy flash floods in Texas have led to at least 70 confirmed deaths. Eleven girls from a Christian summer camp are still missing as officials continue their search efforts.

Key Facts

  • Flash floods in Texas have caused significant damage and loss of life.
  • The death toll has reached at least 70 people.
  • Eleven girls from a Christian summer camp are reported missing.
  • Rescue teams are actively looking for survivors.
  • The likelihood of finding survivors decreases as more time passes.
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Why tick season is worse than usual and how to protect yourself

Why tick season is worse than usual and how to protect yourself

Summary

Each year, almost 31 million people in the U.S. experience tick bites. Diseases caused by ticks, such as Lyme disease, are increasing due to factors like climate change and more human activity in forest areas.

Key Facts

  • About 31 million people in the U.S. are bitten by ticks every year.
  • Tick-related illnesses, like Lyme disease, are becoming more common.
  • Experts link the rise in tick-related diseases to climate change.
  • Human expansion into forested areas contributes to more tick bites.
  • An increasing deer population also plays a role in the spread of ticks.
  • Dr. Andrew Handel is a pediatric infectious diseases specialist who discusses avoiding ticks.
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Domino's restaurant explodes after car crashes into building

Domino's restaurant explodes after car crashes into building

Summary

A Domino's Pizza in Utah exploded after a car crashed into it, causing a gas line to break and a large fire to start. Over 60 firefighters helped to put out the fire, and three people were taken to the hospital. No deaths have been reported.

Key Facts

  • A car crash caused an explosion at a Domino's Pizza in Utah, USA.
  • The crash happened when a car ran off the road and hit the building.
  • The impact ruptured a gas line, which led to a big fire.
  • More than 60 firefighters worked on stopping the fire.
  • Three people went to the hospital due to the incident.
  • There have been no deaths reported.
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Video: Timelapse Shows Texas' Llano River Completely Flood in Just Minutes

Video: Timelapse Shows Texas' Llano River Completely Flood in Just Minutes

Summary

A timelapse video shows the Llano River in Texas flooding rapidly on July 4 due to heavy rain. The flooding in the Hill Country area resulted in at least 67 deaths, with 59 in Kerr County, including missing campers.

Key Facts

  • A video captured the Llano River flooding quickly in Llano County, Texas, on July 4.
  • Authorities blocked a low water crossing at the river in Kingsland just before it flooded.
  • The flood happened in the Hill Country area of Texas.
  • The flooding has caused at least 67 deaths overall.
  • In Kerr County, 59 people have died, including 38 adults and 21 children.
  • Eleven campers from Camp Mystic are missing.
  • The low water crossing, known locally as "the slab," is a popular swimming spot.
  • The video was recorded by Robert Ivey using a security camera.
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Pop, soda or coke? A linguist explains the history behind the various names for the drink

Pop, soda or coke? A linguist explains the history behind the various names for the drink

Summary

The article discusses the regional differences in the United States regarding what people call a soft drink: soda, pop, or coke. It explains the historical origins of these terms and how carbonated drinks evolved from health drinks in the early 1800s.

Key Facts

  • In the Midwest, people often call soft drinks "pop."
  • In the Northeast and Far West, these drinks are usually called "soda."
  • In the South, "coke" is a common term for any soft drink, not just Coca-Cola.
  • The process of carbonating water began in the late 1700s.
  • Soda water was first marketed as a health drink in the early 1800s.
  • Pharmacists used to sell flavored versions of soda water as remedies in the mid-1800s.
  • The term "soda" likely comes from "sodium," once thought to have health benefits.
  • Seltzer, a term for fizzy water, initially referred to a specific mineral water from Germany.
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Watch: Drone footage shows catastrophic flooding in Texas town

Watch: Drone footage shows catastrophic flooding in Texas town

Summary

A search and rescue operation is ongoing in Texas following flash floods that killed at least 51 people, including 15 children. Drone footage shows the destruction in Georgetown, Texas, after the San Gabriel River overflowed. At Camp Mystic, located by the Guadalupe River, 27 girls remain missing.

Key Facts

  • Flash floods in Texas have resulted in the deaths of at least 51 people.
  • Among the deceased are 15 children.
  • The San Gabriel River in Georgetown, Texas, overflowed, causing extensive flooding.
  • Drone footage shows that floodwaters have partially submerged buildings.
  • 27 girls are reported missing from Camp Mystic, a Christian youth camp.
  • Camp Mystic is situated along the banks of the Guadalupe River.
  • Search and rescue efforts are currently ongoing.
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Texas officials face scrutiny over lack of evacuation orders before deadly flooding

Texas officials face scrutiny over lack of evacuation orders before deadly flooding

Summary

In Kerrville, Texas, heavy rains caused sudden flooding, leading to the deaths of at least 59 people. The flood hit early in the morning, catching residents and campers by surprise, despite warnings from the National Weather Service.

Key Facts

  • The flooding happened in Kerr County, Texas, along the Guadalupe River.
  • At least 59 people died due to the flooding, with some still missing.
  • Flash flood warnings were sent early Friday, but many people were not prepared.
  • Local officials said they did not expect such heavy rains and flooding.
  • The National Weather Service had issued warnings as early as Thursday afternoon.
  • People in the area received alerts on their phones to move to safer ground.
  • Some criticized authorities for not having a more effective warning system in place.
  • A local summer camp was heavily affected, with missing persons reported.
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Sheriff says 11 campers, camp counselor still missing from central Texas flash floods

Sheriff says 11 campers, camp counselor still missing from central Texas flash floods

Summary

Powerful floods in central Texas have left 11 campers and a camp counselor missing in Kerr County. Nearly 70 people have died due to the flash floods, with most of the deaths occurring in the Hill Country area of Kerr County. Rescue operations continue as authorities and volunteers search for missing individuals and assess the flood's impact.

Key Facts

  • 11 campers and a counselor are missing after floods in Kerr County, Texas.
  • Nearly 70 people have died from the floods, with 59 deaths in Kerr County alone.
  • Rescue teams are using helicopters, boats, and drones to find and help people.
  • Over 850 people have been rescued in the first 36 hours of the flood.
  • The floodwater rose quickly, reaching 26 feet in 45 minutes, washing away homes and cars.
  • Governor Greg Abbott declared a day of prayer for the victims and ongoing rescue efforts.
  • Locals are familiar with "flash flood alley," but many were caught off guard despite prior warnings.
  • More rain and flash flood watches are in effect, increasing the risks in central Texas.
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Richard Gere joins Dalai Lama's 90th birthday celebrations

Richard Gere joins Dalai Lama's 90th birthday celebrations

Summary

Thousands of Tibetan Buddhists, along with actor Richard Gere, celebrated the Dalai Lama's 90th birthday in Dharamshala, India. Gere, a supporter of the Dalai Lama, spoke at the event, expressing happiness and admiration for the Dalai Lama's selflessness before embracing him.

Key Facts

  • The event took place in Dharamshala, a town in the Himalayan region of India.
  • The Dalai Lama is a respected leader among Tibetan Buddhists and is known for promoting peace.
  • Celebrations included chanting, dance performances, and music with cymbals and bagpipes.
  • Richard Gere, a famous actor and follower of the Dalai Lama, attended the event.
  • Gere gave a speech praising the Dalai Lama for his selfless qualities.
  • The Dalai Lama turned 90 years old.
  • Gere embraced and showed respect to the Dalai Lama during the celebration.
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Search intensifies for missing children after deadly Texas floods

Search intensifies for missing children after deadly Texas floods

Summary

A severe flash flood hit Texas, USA, causing numerous deaths and leaving many missing. Rescue teams are using helicopters, boats, and drones to find survivors and recover victims. Camp Mystic was heavily impacted, with over two dozen campers missing.

Key Facts

  • A flash flood in Texas has resulted in the death of at least 50 people.
  • Search and rescue operations are ongoing, employing helicopters, boats, and drones.
  • Camp Mystic, a girls’ summer camp, experienced significant damage, with 27 campers unaccounted for.
  • The flood struck on July 4, 2025, in an area west of San Antonio known for its flood risk.
  • Heavy rain led to water rushing into creeks and flooding the Guadalupe River.
  • The floodwaters rose rapidly, climbing 26 feet in 45 minutes.
  • The ongoing rain has kept flash flood warnings active.
  • Search teams face challenges due to twisted trees, overturned cars, and debris.
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Iconic former White Sox pitcher Jenks dies aged 44

Iconic former White Sox pitcher Jenks dies aged 44

Summary

Former Chicago White Sox pitcher Bobby Jenks has died at 44 from a rare type of stomach cancer. Jenks was known for helping the White Sox win the World Series in 2005. He moved to Portugal and had been getting treatment for his illness.

Key Facts

  • Bobby Jenks was a former pitcher for the Chicago White Sox.
  • He played a key role in the team's 2005 World Series victory.
  • Jenks was a two-time All-Star while with the White Sox.
  • He ended his baseball career with the Boston Red Sox in 2011.
  • Health issues, including bone spurs on his spine, affected his last season.
  • Jenks had been receiving treatment for adenocarcinoma, a type of stomach cancer.
  • He moved to Portugal last year, where he was getting medical care.
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Over 50 dead from July 4 floods in Texas, schoolgirls missing from camp

Summary

Heavy rains on July 4 in Central Texas led to severe flash floods, causing the deaths of over 50 people, mostly in Kerr County. State officials have confirmed the fatalities, and some schoolgirls are missing from a camp.

Key Facts

  • Flash floods happened in Central Texas on July 4 due to heavy rain.
  • Over 50 people have died because of the floods.
  • Kerr County is the area most affected by the floods.
  • The Kerr County sheriff provided updates on the situation.
  • Some schoolgirls are reported missing from a camp because of the floods.
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It's harvest season. Cherry farms are short of workers amidst an immigration crackdown

Summary

Cherry farms in Washington are experiencing a shortage of workers due to stricter immigration rules. This is happening during the cherry harvest season, a time when they need more workers.

Key Facts

  • Cherry farms in Washington are having trouble finding enough workers.
  • The labor shortage is happening during the cherry harvest season.
  • Stricter federal immigration rules are contributing to the lack of workers.
  • Farmers are concerned about not having enough workers to harvest their crops.
  • The issue is affecting farms in Washington state.
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Thousands turn out to mark the Dalai Lama's 90 birthday

Thousands turn out to mark the Dalai Lama's 90 birthday

Summary

Thousands of people gathered in Dharamshala, India, to celebrate the Dalai Lama's 90th birthday. The event included prayers, dances, and speeches, with the Dalai Lama indicating plans for a successor to continue his spiritual role. Despite rain, the celebrations were attended by followers and notable guests like actor Richard Gere.

Key Facts

  • People gathered in Dharamshala, India, to celebrate the Dalai Lama's 90th birthday.
  • The Dalai Lama appeared in traditional clothes, assisted by two monks.
  • Celebrations included traditional dances and religious chants.
  • Richard Gere, a Hollywood actor and long-time follower, attended and spoke during the event.
  • The Dalai Lama announced plans for a successor, adhering to Tibetan spiritual traditions.
  • Chinese authorities oppose the Dalai Lama's right to select his successor.
  • The Dalai Lama spoke about the importance of peace of mind and compassion.
  • Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former US President Barack Obama sent birthday wishes.
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'Y'all need to get out now' - Texans reflect on flood devastation

'Y'all need to get out now' - Texans reflect on flood devastation

Summary

On July 4, flash floods hit central Texas, causing the deaths of at least 51 people and leaving 27 children missing. Texans shared their experiences and concerns during the ongoing search and rescue operations.

Key Facts

  • Flash floods occurred in central Texas on July 4.
  • At least 51 people died due to the floods.
  • 27 children are reported missing following the floods.
  • Texans are sharing their stories and reactions to the extreme weather.
  • The search and rescue efforts are still ongoing.
  • One woman mentioned that the area where she was swimming the day before is now destroyed.
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Elon Musk launches the America Party as feud with Trump escalates

Elon Musk launches the America Party as feud with Trump escalates

Summary

Billionaire Elon Musk announced the creation of a new political group called the "America Party" to offer an alternative to the current two-party system in the United States. This move follows his criticism of a new budget law signed by President Donald Trump, which Musk believes will increase the national deficit and lead to financial trouble for the country.

Key Facts

  • Elon Musk started a new political group called the "America Party".
  • Musk wants to challenge the current two-party political system in the US.
  • Trump signed a budget law, which Musk criticizes for potentially increasing the national deficit by $3.4 trillion over ten years.
  • Musk conducted an online poll asking people if they wanted a new political party; it got over 1.2 million responses.
  • The relationship between Musk and Trump has worsened over disagreements about the budget law.
  • Musk previously supported Trump during the 2024 election but has since criticized the budget plan.
  • Musk suggests targeting specific vulnerable Senate and House seats to influence future elections.
  • The impact of the "America Party" on future elections, such as the 2026 mid-terms, is still uncertain.
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