German Chancellor Angela Merkel called the disastrous floods that have ravaged Western Europe “terrifying” as the death toll continues rising
Huge floods across Western Europe have killed at least 189 people, with hundreds more still missing. Tens of thousands of people remain displaced, with many still without power and drinking water, and many other still unable to return home.
Germany’s Chancellor described the flooding event as “the worst natural disaster” the nation has seen in over a century. She said, “it is shocking – I can almost say that the German language doesn’t have words for the devastation”.
Chancellor Merkel says the floods are an indication that Europe needs to ramp up their efforts against climate change. This comes days after after Europe outlined a package of steps towards net zero emissions by the middle of the century.
As the death toll climbs, Germany pledges aid
The German government is in the process of fast-tracking disaster relief packages to help areas across Europe affected by the floods. Merkel promised over $300 million Euros in financial aid after visiting one of the areas worst affected by the floods.
“There is huge damage and that much is clear: those who lost their businesses, their houses, cannot stem the losses alone,” said Finance Minister Olaf Scholz. There is also a short term payment of 10,000 Euro for businesses.
The floods have killed at least 157 people in Germany alone. About 37,0000 household in Belgium don’t have access to electricity, with the supply of clean drinking water also a major concern.
The European floods mainly hit the German states of Rhineland Palatinate, North Rhine-Westphalia and parts of Belgium. Entire communities are without power and internet. In North Rhine-Westphalia at least 46 people have died. The death toll in Belgium climbed to 31 on Sunday.
William is an Executive News Producer at TICKER NEWS, responsible for the production and direction of news bulletins. William is also the presenter of the hourly Weather + Climate segment.
With qualifications in Journalism and Law (LLB), William previously worked at the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) before moving to TICKER NEWS. He was also an intern at the Seven Network's 'Sunrise'.
A creative-minded individual, William has a passion for broadcast journalism and reporting on global politics and international affairs.
Labour leader Keir Starmer is advocating for strong measures to regulate artificial intelligence in the UK. He argues that such steps are vital to protect jobs and ensure public safety as technology evolves at a rapid pace.
Starmer has outlined a proposed governance framework to oversee the development and use of AI. He highlights the importance of collaboration between the government and tech companies to establish responsible guidelines.
This approach reflects a major shift in the UK’s strategy, balancing the transformative potential of AI with the need to safeguard workers and society.
Firefighters in California are waging an intense battle against historic wildfires.
Fire officials are employing a specialized fleet of aircraft to combat the flames from above.
The state’s aerial fleet, managed by Cal Fire, is the largest department-owned firefighting aviation unit in the world, operating from 14 airfields and 11 helicopter bases across the state.
However, a troubling revelation has emerged: a critical reservoir in Pacific Palisades, part of Los Angeles’ water supply system, was out of commission during the height of the fires, raising serious concerns about water availability for firefighting efforts.
As the fires continue to claim lives and devastate communities, we explore the coordination, challenges, and critical gaps in resources impacting the emergency response.
Oz Sultan, the Chief Strategist with the Sultan Interactive Group joins Veronica Dudo to discuss.
Biden warns Trump team on climate denial, pushes for Gaza ceasefire with hostages’ release and humanitarian assistance.
Joe Biden has delivered his last policy speech, addressing critical issues facing the future.
In his remarks, he directly challenged officials in the incoming Trump administration who doubt the reality of climate change.
Biden stated, “They are dead wrong. It’s the single greatest existential threat to humanity.”
He said that the transition to clean energy is already underway and highlighted the competition with China for dominance in clean energy manufacturing and supply chains.
Biden asserted that the United States must succeed in this contest to shape the global economy for decades.
Biden announced he is actively pursuing a ceasefire deal in Gaza during his final days in office.
He stated that the proposed deal aims to release hostages held by Hamas and halt the ongoing fighting.
Biden indicated that this agreement would also enhance security for Israel while significantly increasing humanitarian assistance to the region.
He expressed understanding for the suffering of the Palestinian people, stating they have experienced immense hardship due to the conflict initiated by Hamas.
He stressed the urgency of closing the deal to reunite families with their loved ones taken as hostages.
Biden’s focus on these pressing matters reflects his commitment to addressing significant global challenges even as his presidency comes to a close.