A U.S. warship, the USS Zumwalt, has completed sea trials after being equipped with hypersonic missiles, which can travel over five times the speed of sound. This upgrade aims to enhance U.S. naval capabilities amid global competition, especially as China and Russia also develop similar missile technology.
Key Facts
The USS Zumwalt is one of three Zumwalt-class stealth destroyers in the U.S. Navy.
The ship's modernization allows it to launch hypersonic missiles known as Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS).
The missiles can travel more than five times the speed of sound and are difficult to track or intercept.
China and Russia are also developing hypersonic weapons, increasing global military competition.
The USS Zumwalt replaced its guns with missile tubes, capable of carrying 12 CPS missiles.
The ship also has an 80-cell vertical launch system for non-hypersonic missiles.
The Zumwalt-class ships will change home ports to Pearl Harbor, Hawaii by mid-2028.
Other ships in the class, USS Lyndon B. Johnson and USS Michael Monsoor, are also set to receive hypersonic upgrades.
A tabby cat named Jamie has become an internet sensation after her owner shared a post on Reddit about her frequent "piano playing" at home, which often happens during the night. Jamie's antics have amused many online, leading to a large number of upvotes and comments. The owner originally sought advice on how to stop Jamie from playing the piano but instead brought humor and shared experiences to many pet lovers.
Key Facts
Jamie, a tabby cat, has gained attention for frequently "playing" a piano at her home.
Jamie's owner shares a home with five pets: two cats, two dogs, and a snake.
One of the dogs, Finn, a Dalmatian, learned to hit piano keys during puppy training.
Jamie began hitting the piano keys while climbing to her favorite spot and also plays for fun.
A post about Jamie's piano antics on Reddit has received over 40,000 upvotes.
The owner's initial intent was to seek advice on how to stop the piano noise.
The post sparked a large number of humorous comments and shared experiences among pet owners.
The owner has tried various methods to stop Jamie from playing but without success.
A fire at the Gul Plaza Shopping Centre in Karachi, Pakistan, has resulted in at least 60 deaths. Rescue teams continue searching for over 80 missing individuals. The exact cause of the fire is not yet known.
Key Facts
At least 60 people have died due to the fire at Gul Plaza Shopping Centre in Karachi.
The fire broke out on Saturday, and search operations are still underway.
About 30 bodies were found in a mezzanine-floor shop called "Dubai Crockery."
Rescue teams are looking for over 80 people who are still missing.
The exact cause of the fire is not yet identified.
Poor fire safety standards and illegal construction are common issues in Karachi.
DNA samples are being collected to identify the victims.
A government inquiry is looking into the fire safety measures at the mall.
Research shows pet food and water bowls can hold harmful bacteria that pose health risks to pets and humans. Common materials like plastic and ceramic can harbor bacteria, but stainless steel bowls are easier to clean and safer. Experts advise washing pet bowls regularly to prevent disease.
Key Facts
Pet food and water bowls can hold bacteria like MRSA and Salmonella.
Plastic and ceramic bowls can develop scratches that trap bacteria.
Stainless steel is recommended for pet bowls because it resists bacteria.
Vets suggest cleaning food bowls after each meal and water bowls daily.
Unchecked bacteria in bowls can spread to surfaces and people, causing illness.
Damaged ceramic bowls should be replaced to prevent bacterial growth.
Silicone bowls are convenient for travel but may not be durable for daily use.
President Donald Trump threatened to impose new tariffs on eight European countries but withdrew the threat after a meeting with NATO's Secretary General. This pattern of making aggressive trade threats followed by quick retreats has been noted as happening more rapidly in recent years. The European Union has developed a new tool, the Anti-Coercion Instrument, to counter such economic threats.
Key Facts
President Trump threatened to impose 10–25 percent tariffs on eight European allies.
The tariffs were meant to press Europe for concessions related to Greenland.
After a meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Trump withdrew the tariffs.
European lawmakers had paused a U.S. trade deal at the time.
Markets reacted positively to Trump's retreat, a pattern described as "Trump Always Chickens Out" (TACO).
The EU has introduced the Anti-Coercion Instrument to counteract economic coercion.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent defended Trump's tariff strategies as a deterrence tool.
The strategy aims to use economic power to prevent conflicts without military action.
An Indian man named Yuvraj Mehta died after his car fell into an unmarked waterlogged construction pit in Noida, near Delhi. The incident has raised serious concerns about road safety and urban planning in India. Authorities have taken legal action against the construction site's developers and launched an investigation.
Key Facts
Yuvraj Mehta, a 27-year-old IT worker, died after his car fell into a construction pit filled with water in Noida.
The accident occurred around midnight near Delhi, in dense fog.
Mehta was unable to swim and stayed on his car roof for nearly two hours calling for help.
His father alerted emergency services, but Mehta's body was not recovered for almost five hours.
The incident sparked protests, with people blaming authorities for negligence.
The local police have charged the real estate developers with negligence-related crimes.
The government has removed a senior Noida official and launched an inquiry.
Police have arrested Abhay Kumar, one of the site owners, and further investigations are ongoing.
A woman named Chelsea Takami was told she was postmenopausal after undergoing treatment for breast cancer. Later, she experienced unexplained symptoms and discovered she was actually 20 weeks pregnant, which was a surprise given her previous diagnosis. This unexpected news came as she was trying to regain normalcy in her life after cancer treatment and personal challenges.
Key Facts
Chelsea Takami, 36, was diagnosed with stage 1a HER2 breast cancer in September 2024.
Her treatment included biopsies, a lumpectomy, chemotherapy, and radiation.
After treatment, she was informed she was postmenopausal and had low chances of conceiving.
Takami experienced mood swings, cravings, and thought she was stressed.
Thinking she couldn't conceive, she was surprised to find unexplained "flutters" in her uterus.
In October, tests showed she was postmenopausal, yet later tests revealed she was pregnant.
She was initially told she was seven weeks pregnant but later learned she was 20 weeks along.
The pregnancy news was unexpected as she was trying to recover from cancer treatment and personal changes.
A large winter storm called Winter Storm Fern is expected to cause heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain across various regions of the United States, beginning in the Southern Rockies and Plains and moving eastward. The storm is predicted to impact areas into the Mid-South, Mid-Atlantic, and New England over several days. Authorities provide advice on how to prepare for potential power outages and staying safe during extreme cold.
Key Facts
Winter Storm Fern is forecasted to start affecting the Southern Rockies and Plains on Friday and move towards the Mid‑Atlantic and New England over the weekend.
The storm could bring heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain to widespread areas.
Meteorologist Dylan Federico described the impending weather as "potentially catastrophic."
Experts recommend operating portable generators outdoors to prevent fire risks.
During power outages, disconnect appliances to protect them from surges; keeping one light on helps signal when power returns.
Maintaining home heat is crucial; use safe sources like natural gas heaters and insulate homes.
The American Red Cross advises staying warm indoors to avoid frostbite and hypothermia.
People should prepare emergency kits with food, water, medicines, and warm clothing in case stores close or travel becomes unsafe.
A woman in New York City thought her dog was seriously injured during a walk in Central Park, but later found an acorn stuck in his paw, which caused his discomfort. She shared the amusing incident on TikTok, where it quickly gained popularity. The story highlights the importance of checking a pet's paws for small objects after a walk.
Key Facts
A woman named Abby thought her dog Buff was injured during a walk in Central Park.
Buff, a Maltese Shih Tzu, struggled to walk, leading Abby to carry him home.
At home, Abby found an acorn stuck in Buff's paw pad, causing his distress.
Abby shared the incident on TikTok, and the video received over 2.2 million views.
The video attracted attention due to Buff's cute reaction and the unexpected discovery.
Abby reminds pet owners to check their dog's paws after walks to prevent similar situations.
A woman named Chloe from Wales experienced severe sickness during her pregnancies due to a condition called hyperemesis gravidarum (HG). She faced challenges accessing medication for her condition and is considering sterilization to avoid future pregnancies. A local politician is advocating for better access to the necessary medication in Wales.
Key Facts
Chloe, a 26-year-old from Newport, Wales, experienced severe pregnancy sickness caused by hyperemesis gravidarum (HG).
HG leads to extreme nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, requiring hospital treatment in some cases.
The medication Xonvea, used to treat HG, is not easily accessible in Wales, prompting a politician to call for improvements.
Chloe was able to access Xonvea after an ectopic pregnancy scare, which improved her condition and allowed her to cancel a planned termination.
Chloe is considering sterilization to avoid experiencing the sickness again in future pregnancies.
HG affects about 1 to 3 out of every 100 pregnant women, and symptoms include severe nausea, vomiting, dehydration, and weight loss.
The Welsh government allows prescriptions of Xonvea in some cases when other treatments fail.
223 prescriptions for Xonvea were issued in Wales by 103 GP practices in October, costing £28.50 per box.
Paul Mescal, a well-known actor, praised a song called "Evelyn" by Scottish singer Michael McGovern in an interview. This led to a significant increase in McGovern's popularity and the number of people listening to his music. Although Mescal forgot McGovern's name, the mention still resulted in a boost in the singer's followers and concert attendance.
Key Facts
Actor Paul Mescal praised the song "Evelyn" by Michael McGovern in an interview.
Mescal could not recall McGovern's name during the interview.
McGovern's song "Evelyn" had already reached 100,000 listens on TikTok before Mescal's mention.
After Mescal's endorsement, McGovern's music saw a 700% increase in listens.
The song is from McGovern's album "Thin White Road," recorded on the Isle of Lewis.
McGovern's popularity has resulted in sold-out shows, including three nights in London.
Michael McGovern began playing music with his friend Callum Little while they were still in school.
Israeli settlers have caused many Palestinian families to leave the village of Ras Ein al-Auja in the occupied West Bank. Settler violence and activities have pushed out hundreds of people from their homes and taken over resources like water and land. The situation is part of a larger issue involving settlement expansions in the West Bank.
Key Facts
Israeli settlers have been celebrating while many Palestinian families have left Ras Ein al-Auja.
About 450 of the 650 residents of the village have fled due to violence from settlers.
The village was one of the last Palestinian herding communities in the Jordan Valley, but settlers have cut off water and taken livestock.
Families have dismantled their homes and left nothing for settlers to use.
Settlements and outposts in the West Bank have grown by almost 50% since 2022.
Israeli laws consider these settlements illegal, but they are often tolerated and protected by Israeli authorities.
New types of "shepherding outposts" have emerged, mimicking Bedouin life and seizing land by grazing livestock.
As of the latest data, settlers have taken over about 14% of the West Bank.
Denmark declared it would not enter into talks about giving up its control over Greenland after President Donald Trump mentioned he had outlined a potential deal regarding the island. The discussion has raised issues about sovereignty and national security involving Greenland, a self-governing part of Denmark. Denmark emphasized its stance on maintaining sovereignty and expressed openness to dialogues about security and other matters, but not on its territorial integrity.
Key Facts
President Donald Trump discussed a potential framework deal for Greenland and the Arctic with NATO.
Greenland is a self-governing territory under Denmark's sovereignty.
Trump mentioned that the U.S. wants control of Greenland for strategic reasons like national security.
Denmark's Prime Minister stated that Denmark cannot negotiate its sovereignty over Greenland.
Denmark is open to discussions on various issues, but territorial integrity is non-negotiable.
Trump ruled out using force to acquire Greenland.
Tariffs planned by the U.S. on some European allies due to this issue have been withdrawn.
A winter storm warning has been issued for parts of eight U.S. states, with up to 3 feet of snow and strong winds expected. The National Weather Service warns that travel could be extremely dangerous. People are advised to prepare for severe winter conditions.
Key Facts
Areas in New York could see up to 3 feet of snow and 40 mph winds by Friday night.
Oklahoma might get up to 6 inches of snow with winds reaching 35 mph, lasting until Sunday.
Northern Texas expects at least 6 inches of snow with strong winds and icy conditions from Friday to Sunday.
Western Michigan could see up to 7 inches of snow by Friday night, affecting commutes.
Parts of Maryland and Virginia may receive up to a foot of snow by Monday afternoon.
Colorado and Utah mountainous areas should prepare for 6 to 12 inches of snow from Friday through the weekend.
The National Weather Service advises monitoring local forecasts, securing emergency supplies, and ensuring vehicle readiness.
President Donald Trump announced a future agreement involving Greenland, highlighting a focus on military presence and resources. Details on the agreement remain limited, and sovereignty over Greenland has not been addressed. The focus includes security and minerals, with ongoing talks to prevent Russian and Chinese influence in Greenland.
Key Facts
President Trump discussed a future deal concerning Greenland, but specific details are scarce.
U.S. military bases in Greenland may become American territory under the new agreement.
Trump described the deal as a long-term arrangement beneficial for security and mineral access.
Sovereignty over Greenland was not part of the discussions, according to NATO's chief.
Denmark and Greenland stated the island is not for sale, and any forceful action would violate international law.
The U.S. seeks to prevent Russian and Chinese economic or military influence in Greenland.
Nordic leaders are open to discussing security arrangements and economic deals, excluding sovereignty issues.
The agreement may also include aspects of the U.S. missile defense system and mineral rights.
A trial has started in Hong Kong for three activists accused of inciting subversion. They organized vigils for the Tiananmen Square massacre, which have been banned since 2020. The trial relates to the national security law imposed by Beijing.
Key Facts
The trial involves three activists: Chow Hang-tung, Albert Ho, and Lee Cheuk-yan.
They are accused of "inciting subversion of state power" in Hong Kong.
In 2020, Hong Kong banned vigils for the Tiananmen Square massacre.
The national security law was introduced by Beijing in 2020 after protests in 2019.
Former yearly vigils marked the June 4, 1989 Tiananmen Square crackdown.
The trial will have a three-judge panel and is expected to last 75 days.
Videos of the activists' work will be used as evidence in the trial.
Critics say the law is used to silence pro-democracy voices.
In Bangladesh, political parties are using social media platforms like TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube to reach voters, especially the younger generation, ahead of the February 12 elections. These efforts include campaign songs and digital content to engage voters who played a significant role in the past political changes and could influence the upcoming election. The elections will also include a referendum on institutional reforms introduced after the 2024 uprising.
Key Facts
Social media platforms are crucial tools for political campaigns in Bangladesh.
The Awami League, BNP, Jamaat-e-Islami, Jatiya Party, and a new National Citizen Party are key political players.
On February 12, Bangladesh will hold elections and a referendum on proposed state reforms.
The referendum discusses changes from the 2024 uprising led by an interim government under Muhammad Yunus.
Bangladesh has about 130 million internet users, with high engagement on platforms like Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok.
Political campaign songs have gone viral online, aiming to connect with younger voters.
43.56% of Bangladeshi voters are aged 18 to 37, many voting for the first time or feeling empowered after recent political shifts.
The Philippines has discovered a new gas deposit in the South China Sea, which is an area claimed by multiple countries. This discovery could greatly boost the Philippines' energy supply by providing enough gas for millions of homes.
Key Facts
The new gas deposit, called Malampaya East-1, is located near the existing Malampaya gas field in the South China Sea.
It contains an estimated 98 billion cubic feet of gas, enough to supply 5.7 million Philippine households.
The South China Sea is contested by several countries, including China, which claims most of the area.
This gas find could help extend the life of the Malampaya gas field, which currently supplies 20% of Luzon Island's energy needs.
Preliminary tests indicate the new deposit could produce up to 60 million cubic feet of gas per day.
The discovery was made by an all-Filipino consortium, showcasing the Philippines' growing abilities in energy development.
The new deposit lies within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone, about 50 miles from Palawan province.
The Philippines is exploring more potential gas sites, with results expected in early next year.
Rescue workers in New Zealand are looking for missing people, including children, after landslides hit the North Island due to heavy rain. The landslides affected a campsite at Mount Maunganui and a house in nearby Papamoa, prompting evacuations and road closures. Rescue efforts are ongoing, but there is a risk of more landslides.
Key Facts
Landslides occurred on New Zealand's North Island after heavy rain.
Several people, including children, are missing, following the landslide at Mount Maunganui.
The landslide affected campervans and a shower block in a holiday park during school holidays.
Another landslide hit a house in Papamoa, with two people missing.
A 47-year-old man is missing after his attempt to cross the Mahurangi River.
Rescue operations faced challenges due to the risk of more landslides.
Emergency teams heard signs of life but withdrew to ensure safety due to ground movement.
New Zealand's Prime Minister is monitoring the situation.
Thousands of residents in parts of Georgia and Tennessee have been advised to stay indoors due to unhealthy levels of air pollution. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reported high levels of fine particle pollution, known as PM2.5, which can affect people's health.
Key Facts
The EPA identified high levels of PM2.5 in regions of Georgia and Tennessee, including cities like Chattanooga and Dalton.
High levels of PM2.5 can cause health issues such as coughing, irritation, and breathing problems.
Sensitive groups, like children and the elderly, may experience more severe health effects.
The EPA advises reducing outdoor activities and wearing respirators like N95 masks if going outside is necessary.
PM2.5 pollution comes from sources like vehicles, industrial activities, and wildfires.
The EPA uses the Air Quality Index (AQI) to measure air pollution, where higher numbers mean worse air quality.
The AQI levels range from "Good" to "Hazardous" with specific health advice for each category.
