US
Levee Failure Triggers Flash Flood Warning in Southern King County, Washington
A Flash Flood Warning has been issued for southern parts of King County, Washington, after the failure of the Desimone levee near Tukwila, causing life-threatening flooding concerns. The warning, which remains in effect until 9 p.m. Monday, affects areas near Tukwila, Kent, and Renton, with water from the breach moving north toward I-405. Residents in low-lying areas are urged to move to higher ground immediately and follow evacuation instructions. The Washington National Guard is assisting first responders in the area. The National Weather Service (NWS) classified the flash flood threat as "observed" with a "considerable" damage threat. Shelters have been set up at various locations, including the Auburn Community and Event Center and the Evergreen State Fairgrounds. Residents are advised to avoid low-lying areas, riverbanks, and drainage channels, and never drive through flooded roads. Governor Bob Ferguson is scheduled to update the public on area flooding responses at 2 p.m. The failure of the Green River levee has significant impacts on communities, including Kent, Renton, and Tukwila, with affected waterways including the Green River, the Duwamish Waterway, and the Cedar River. Residents are encouraged to take immediate action and move to higher ground to protect their lives. This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Atmospheric River to Bring Warm Rain, High Winds, and Rising Rivers to Western Washington
An atmospheric river is expected to bring warm rain, high winds, and rising rivers to Western Washington on Monday and Tuesday. The storm will push rivers higher, with the Skagit, Skykomish, Snoqualmie, and Snohomish Rivers expected to rise to moderate flood levels by Wednesday. The Stillaguamish, Skookumchuck, and Cowlitz Rivers are anticipated to exceed minor flood levels, while the White and Green Rivers will remain above flood stage throughout the week. High temperatures on Monday will be about 15 degrees above normal, with some areas potentially reaching 60 degrees. Wind gusts are expected to range from 40 to 55 mph along the coast and 25 to 45 mph in the interior. The threat of landslides will remain elevated due to soggy soils, and power outages are possible. However, a cold front is expected to arrive from the Gulf of Alaska on Tuesday, bringing much cooler weather and snow to the mountains. Snow levels are forecast to drop to around 2,500 feet by Wednesday, with up to two to four feet of new snow expected through Thursday. Motorists planning to cross Cascade highways should prepare for winter-weather driving conditions. The weather pattern change will allow rivers to finally recede, and temperatures will return to more seasonable levels by Wednesday. Looking ahead to Christmas Day and the end of the month, the weather outlook calls for cooler, wetter-than-average conditions, with a chance of a white Christmas in the mountains.
President Trump Designates Fentanyl as a Weapon of Mass Destruction
President Donald J. Trump has signed an Executive Order designating illicit fentanyl and its core precursor chemical as weapons of mass destruction (WMD). This move directs various government agencies to take immediate action against those involved in the manufacture, distribution, and sale of illicit fentanyl. The Attorney General will pursue criminal charges, sentencing enhancements, and sentencing variances in fentanyl trafficking cases. The Secretary of State and the Secretary of the Treasury will take action against relevant assets and financial institutions supporting fentanyl production and distribution. The designation of fentanyl as a WMD acknowledges its potential to be used in large-scale terror attacks and its devastating impact on American lives. Just two milligrams of fentanyl can be lethal, and it is claimed to be the leading cause of death for Americans aged 18-45. President Trump has vowed to dismantle cartels, eradicate illicit fentanyl, and ensure every family is safe from this chemical weapon. This move is part of a broader effort to combat the flow of poisonous fentanyl and other drugs into the country, building on previous actions such as declaring a National Emergency at the southern border and imposing tariffs on countries that fail to address the issue. The Executive Order also directs the Secretary of War and the Secretary of Homeland Security to update their chemical incident response-related directives to include the fentanyl threat and to identify fentanyl smuggling networks using WMD and nonproliferation-related threat intelligence. By taking this step, President Trump aims to mobilize the full weight of the Federal government to confront fentanyl as the deadly chemical weapon it is.
Cold Weather Alerts Issued for Over 70 Million Americans as Arctic Air Brings Single-Digit Temperatures
A mass of cold air from the Polar Vortex is affecting the eastern United States, bringing single-digit temperatures with wind chill to millions of Americans. More than 70 million people are under Cold Weather Alerts on Monday, with the FOX Forecast Center warning it could be the coldest day of the year when considering wind chills. The Midwest and Northeast are experiencing particularly harsh conditions, with wind chill temperatures in the single digits and teens. Indianapolis has issued an Extreme Cold Warning, with expected wind chill temperatures as low as -25 degrees, while Detroit has activated warming centers through Tuesday. In the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic, cities like New York and Baltimore have also activated Code Blue warming centers to provide relief for the unhoused population. The bitter arctic air will linger into Tuesday, particularly in the Northern Tier, before a quick warmup by midweek. The cold snap comes just six days ahead of the start of astronomical winter on Sunday. Cities such as Nashville, Atlanta, and Birmingham have activated warming centers to help those in need. The extreme cold is a significant concern, especially for vulnerable populations, and residents are advised to take necessary precautions to stay safe.
Wisconsin Judge Postpones Hearing for Former Trump Aide Amid Questions Over Statements
A Wisconsin judge has postponed a preliminary hearing for Ken Chesebro, one of three former aides to President Donald Trump facing felony forgery charges related to the 2020 election. The hearing was delayed due to questions about statements Chesebro made to prosecutors and whether they can be used in court. Chesebro, along with Jim Troupis and Mike Roman, face 11 felony charges each for their roles in a fake elector scheme. The charges allege that the three lied to Republican electors about how a certificate they signed would be used, as part of a plan to submit paperwork to then-Vice President Mike Pence claiming Trump had won the state. The postponement is a setback for prosecutors, who had pushed for the hearing to proceed. The case is moving forward despite similar cases in other states faltering. A special prosecutor dropped a federal case alleging Trump conspired to overturn the 2020 election, and a case in Nevada is still ongoing. The Wisconsin case centers on allegations that the three Trump aides defrauded 10 Republican electors who cast their ballots for Trump in 2020. The electors have said they did not consent to having their signatures presented as if Trump had won without a court ruling. Dane County Circuit Judge John Hyland suggested holding a separate evidentiary hearing to determine whether Chesebro's comments to investigators can be used in court. Chesebro's attorney had sought to prevent the comments from being used, sparking a dispute with prosecutors. The hearing for the other two defendants, Troupis and Roman, continued as scheduled. Troupis had previously attempted to get the judge to step down and have the case moved to another county, alleging bias, but was unsuccessful.
Brown University Shooting Victims Identified as Ella Cook and Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov
A shooting at Brown University in Rhode Island on Saturday resulted in the deaths of two students, Ella Cook and Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov. At least nine others were wounded in the incident, which occurred in a classroom on the university's campus. As of Monday morning, a suspect had not been identified, but local police advised that there is no immediate threat to the university or the local community. Ella Cook, a sophomore from Alabama, was vice president of Brown's College Republicans. She was remembered by Alabama's Lt. Governor Will Ainsworth as a "devoted Christian and a committed conservative" with a bright future that was ended too soon. Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov, an 18-year-old freshman, was studying biochemistry and neuroscience. His sister described him as someone who had overcome many hardships, including a neurological condition and scoliosis, and was known for his kindness and willingness to help others. The American Uzbekistan Association remembered Umurzokov as a sharp intellect with a kind heart, and his roommate described him as a "ball of joy" who was always present and willing to help. The U.S. Ambassador to Uzbekistan, Jonathan Henick, extended condolences to Umurzokov's family and friends, mourning the loss of his bright future. The university and local community continue to grieve the loss of the two students, with many remembering their positive impact and contributions to the community.
US Offers 'Platinum' Security Guarantees to Ukraine in Peace Talks
American officials have reported significant progress in talks to end Russia's war in Ukraine, with the US offering beefed-up security guarantees for Kyiv. The guarantees, described as the "platinum standard," would provide deterrence from further Russian aggression, deconfliction mechanisms, and monitoring of an eventual peace deal. President Donald Trump, represented by his foreign envoy Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner, plans to discuss the developing agreement with European leaders. Roughly 90% of the issues between Russia and Ukraine have been solved, with the issue of territorial concessions remaining a sticking point. The US side has offered "thought-provoking" ideas to resolve the impasse, including the development of an "economic free zone." Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has compromised on security guarantees instead of NATO membership, with the package of guarantees spelling out consequences for Russia if it violates the agreement. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has described the US offer as "really significant," with Trump willing to bring the security guarantees before Congress. However, US officials have cautioned that the offer will not last forever, and that resolving the final issues, including questions of territory, will have to be done by Moscow and Kyiv. The US has an obligation to discuss the issue with Moscow and the Europeans, with Witkoff and Kushner prepared to travel to Russia for further discussions if needed.
Milwaukee County Judge Hannah Dugan's Trial Begins with Opening Statements
The trial of Milwaukee County Judge Hannah Dugan has commenced, with federal prosecutors accusing her of helping an undocumented man, Eduardo Flores-Ruiz, evade capture at the courthouse in April. The government and defense delivered their opening statements on Monday morning, followed by the testimony of FBI Special Agent Erin Lucker. Lucker is part of the investigation into Dugan and walked the jury through the layout of the courthouse, including the location of doors, courtrooms, and restricted areas. The defense team, led by Attorney Steve Biskupic, argued that the burden of proof lies entirely with the prosecutors and highlighted the confusion and uncertainty surrounding the events of April 18. Biskupic also pointed out that Flores-Ruiz's attorney was not informed of the ICE warrant and that they did not exit through the stairs as planned. Instead, they entered the public hallway, where agents could have arrested Flores-Ruiz. Prosecutor Keith Alexander delivered the government's opening statement, quoting Dugan as saying "I'll do it. I'll get the heat." Alexander alleged that Dugan called Flores-Ruiz's case earlier than intended and directed him and his attorney to a non-public hallway, allowing them to evade capture. The trial is being overseen by Federal Judge Lynn Adelman, and the jury will consider two charges against Dugan: helping an undocumented man evade federal agents and obstructing those agents. One juror was absent due to illness, and the trial will proceed with a 13-person jury.
US Government Launches Tech Force to Recruit AI Talent
The US government has announced the launch of the United States Tech Force, a program aimed at recruiting artificial intelligence talent to modernize the government and win the global AI race. The program, led by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), seeks to recruit an initial cohort of around 1,000 technologists for two-year stints in various government agencies, starting as soon as March. The recruits will be paid between $150,000 and $200,000 annually and will work on projects of national importance. About 20 technology companies, including Palantir, Meta, and Oracle, have signed on to participate in the program, allowing their employees to take temporary leaves of absence to work for the government. The program has raised ethical concerns about conflicts of interest, as some participants will not be required to divest from their stocks. OPM Director Scott Kupor emphasized that the program will bring in skilled technologists to manage engineering teams and work on complex problems. The creation of the Tech Force follows the Trump administration's closure of several government technology teams and the exodus of thousands of employees. The program's goals and structure have drawn comparisons to the US Digital Service, created during the Obama administration, and the U.S. Digital Corps, an early career tech fellowship launched in 2022. The involvement of private sector companies in the program is a unique aspect, with participants able to return to their old jobs with new skills and expertise after working for the government.
FBI Arrests Four Individuals Allegedly Planning New Year's Eve Bombings in California
The US Justice Department announced the arrest of four individuals in the Los Angeles area for allegedly plotting to detonate pipe bombs on New Year's Eve. The suspects, identified as Audrey Ilene Carroll, Dante Garfield, Zachary Aaron Page, and Tina Lai, are believed to be members of the Turtle Island Liberation Front, a group with an anti-government ideology. According to the federal court complaint, the plan involved planting backpacks with improvised explosive devices (IEDs) at various locations, with detailed instructions on how to craft the bombs and avoid detection. The group allegedly used the encrypted messaging platform Signal to communicate, with their chat titled "Order of the Black Lotus." On December 12, they reportedly tested the explosive devices in the Mojave Desert. An FBI Bomb Technician determined that the components found at the campsite could be used to build both IEDs and Molotov cocktails. The FBI Director, Kash Patel, stated that the group was planning coordinated IED bombing attacks on five separate locations across Los Angeles, motivated by pro-Palestinian, anti-law-enforcement, and anti-government ideology. The investigation is ongoing, and the story will be updated as more information becomes available.
Brian Walshe Found Guilty of First-Degree Murder of Wife Ana Walshe
Brian Walshe, a Massachusetts man, has been found guilty of first-degree murder in the death of his wife, Ana Walshe, who went missing on January 1, 2023. Ana, a 39-year-old mother of three, was last seen on New Year's Day, and her body has not been found. Brian Walshe had pleaded guilty to lying to police and improperly disposing of her body but denied killing his wife. The prosecution argued that Brian Walshe premeditatedly murdered and dismembered Ana, then disposed of her remains in dumpsters. They presented evidence, including internet searches on his devices, such as "best way to dispose of a body" and "how long for someone to be missing to inherit." The defense argued that there was no proof beyond a reasonable doubt that Brian Walshe killed his wife or had a motive to do so. However, the jury delivered a guilty verdict after deliberating for approximately six hours. Brian Walshe faces a sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole, with sentencing scheduled for Wednesday. The trial included testimony from several witnesses, including a man with whom Ana Walshe was having an affair, and presented surveillance footage of Brian Walshe buying tools and supplies at a Lowe's store on the day of her disappearance. Blood-stained items, including a hacksaw and a piece of rug, were also linked to Ana Walshe through DNA testing.
US Seizes Oil Tanker Off Venezuela Coast, Escalating Tensions with Maduro Regime
The Trump administration has seized a large oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela, marking a new front in its efforts to pressure the Nicolás Maduro regime. The tanker, which was flying a Guyana flag but had no record of registration, has been implicated in violating sanctions on both Venezuela and Iran. Legal experts suggest that the seizure has a stronger legal justification than the administration's previous strategy of blowing up suspected drug-smuggling boats. The tanker carried roughly $80 million of oil, which is about 5 percent of what Venezuela spends monthly on imported goods. The seizure could lead to a fresh economic crisis in Venezuela, with economist Francisco Rodriguez warning of a "very deep recession." The Trump administration appears to believe that economic pressure could force Maduro from power, but others argue that this approach is unlikely to succeed. Maduro has survived the impoverishment of his people before, and the Venezuelan economy has been in free fall for over a decade. The more likely outcome of increased economic pressure is to exacerbate the crises of migrants and drugs, which Trump has cited as reasons for his actions. The US has not provided a clear explanation for its objectives or strategy in Venezuela, leading to concerns about the motivations behind its actions.
Milwaukee Judge Faces Trial for Allegedly Helping Undocumented Man Evade Arrest
A federal trial is set to begin for Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge Hannah Dugan, who has been accused of concealing an undocumented man to prevent his arrest by immigration authorities. Dugan has pleaded not guilty to the two-count indictment, which alleges she obstructed official Department of Homeland Security removal proceedings and knowingly concealed the man from immigration authorities. The incident occurred in April when Dugan allegedly directed federal agents to the chief judge's office and then sent the undocumented man, Eduardo Flores-Ruiz, and his attorney out a non-public door. Prosecutors expect to have 25 to 28 witnesses and anticipate that Dugan could face up to six years in prison if convicted. Dugan's lawyers have argued that she has judicial immunity for official acts and that her prosecution is unconstitutional, but Judge Lynn Adelman denied the motion to dismiss the case. The Wisconsin Supreme Court has suspended Dugan from her duties, citing that it is "in the public interest that she be temporarily relieved of her official duties." Flores-Ruiz, a native of Mexico, was later arrested, charged, and sentenced to time served before being deported.
Merriam-Webster Names 'Slop' as 2025 Word of the Year
Merriam-Webster has announced 'slop' as its 2025 word of the year, reflecting the proliferation of low-quality, AI-generated content online. The word, which originally meant soft mud, has evolved to describe digital content of little value, including absurd videos, fake news, and propaganda. According to Greg Barlow, Merriam-Webster's president, the word's selection is due to its relevance in the current technological landscape, where AI-generated content is becoming increasingly prevalent. The rise of AI video generators has raised concerns about misinformation, deepfakes, and copyright issues. The word 'slop' is seen as a reflection of people's growing awareness of fake or shoddy content and their desire for authenticity. Merriam-Webster's editors review data on word searches and usage to select the word of the year, aiming to capture the essence of the current moment. Other notable words on the list include '6-7', 'performative', 'gerrymander', 'touch grass', 'conclave', 'tariffs', and 'Lake Chargoggagoggmanchauggagoggchaubunagungamaugg'. The dictionary has been selecting a word of the year since 2003, with previous winners including 'polarization', 'authentic', 'gaslighting', and 'pandemic'. The selection of 'slop' as the word of the year highlights the impact of technology on language and the need for critical thinking in the digital age. As Barlow notes, the word is "almost a defiant word when it comes to AI" and reflects people's desire for genuine and meaningful content. With the increasing availability of AI-generated content, the concept of 'slop' is likely to remain relevant in the years to come.
Republican Party Faces Conundrum with Working-Class Base and Plutocratic Agenda
The Republican Party is facing a dilemma as they try to balance their working-class base with their plutocratic agenda. In the House, representatives from swing districts are attempting to craft legislation that preserves government health insurance programs while also diminishing them, in line with Republican ideology. However, this has proven to be a challenging task, and the party's inability to craft an alternative to the Affordable Care Act has been evident for over a decade. Recently, a measure to restore collective-bargaining rights to roughly one million federal employees passed in the House with 20 Republicans joining all House Democrats in the majority. The 20 Republicans who voted in favor of the measure came from various regions, including the mid-Atlantic states and the Midwest, which have a history of unionization. The vote highlights the tension between the Republican Party's working-class base and its plutocratic agenda. While some Republicans, such as Senator Josh Hawley, are attempting to address workers' economic concerns, the party's fundamental economic precepts make it challenging to devise a plausible economic outreach to its working-class supporters. The party's failure to develop an alternative to the Affordable Care Act and its prioritization of tax cuts for the rich over working-class constituents' health insurance have contributed to the anxiety among Republican elected officials. As the economy continues to flounder, Republicans can no longer rely on simply positing themselves as the economic alternative without having to devise actual economic alternatives. This has led some Republicans to occasionally cross party lines to demonstrate their recognition of working-class economic concerns, and swing-district Republicans are becoming increasingly anxious about their re-election prospects.
Brown University Shooting: Manhunt Enters Third Day After Person of Interest Released
A manhunt for the shooter responsible for the deadly mass shooting at Brown University has entered its third day. The shooting occurred on Saturday, leaving two students dead and nine others injured. A person of interest who was detained in connection with the attack was released after evidence pointed in a different direction, according to state Attorney General Peter Neronha. Providence Mayor Brett Smiley stated that investigators believe there was only one person responsible for the attack and that there have been no credible threats to the university or surrounding town. Classes at Brown University have been canceled for the rest of the semester as the community comes together to support the victims and mourn the lives lost. A surveillance video showing the suspect leaving the area remains a key piece of evidence for investigators. The video shows an individual dressed in dark clothing near the university, and authorities are asking for the public's help in identifying the suspect. Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr spoke out about the shooting, emphasizing the need for gun control and stating that the loss felt by the families of the victims is the same as that felt by families affected by other mass shootings. The incident is part of a larger trend of gun violence in the United States, with at least 391 mass shootings and 13,929 shooting deaths reported so far in 2025, according to the Gun Violence Archive. As the investigation continues, authorities are reviewing the evidence and restarting the search for the suspect. CNN Law Enforcement Analyst Steve Moore noted that the fact that the shooter has not launched another attack suggests that there may not be an immediate threat to the community. The search for the suspect is ongoing, with local, state, and federal authorities working together to bring the perpetrator to justice.
Ukraine and Russia Launch Drone Attacks, UK Prime Minister Faces Questions
Ukraine and Russia have launched dozens of drones at each other overnight, with Ukraine's Air Force reporting 153 Russian projectiles and Russia's Defence Ministry reporting 146 drones from Ukraine being intercepted. The BBC Verify team is working to verify footage of the aftermath, including images of damage to the Luch thermal power plant in Belgorod, Russia. Meanwhile, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is set to face questions from senior MPs on the House of Commons Liaison Committee, where he will be grilled on his government's performance on key goals, including house building, healthcare, and living standards. The government had set targets to deliver 1.5 million net additional homes in England, but is currently running at a rate of just over 200,000 a year. The healthcare target is to have 92% of patients seen within 18 weeks, but currently only around 62% are being met. The government has also pledged to grow real household disposable income per person, but forecasts suggest this will be the second weakest Parliament since the 1970s. In other news, the BBC Verify team is working on a minute-by-minute timeline of yesterday's shooting at a Hanukkah event in Sydney, which killed 15 people. The team is analyzing videos and internet footprints to build up background information on the two suspects, Sajid and Naveed Akram. The team is also keen to hear from the public and is asking for suggestions on what to investigate next.
Cold Weather Advisory Issued for Central North Carolina
A Cold Weather Advisory is in effect for Central North Carolina from Sunday at 6 p.m. through Monday at 9 a.m. due to an Arctic air mass that will bring temperatures into the teens overnight, with wind chills in the single digits expected through mid-morning Monday. The National Weather Service warns of elevated risks for cold exposure, and gusty northwest winds of 15 to 25 mph, with peak gusts up to 35 mph, may send unsecured outdoor items flying. To stay safe in the cold weather, residents are advised to dress in layers, ensure children and pets are properly protected, and provide outdoor animals with warm shelter, food, and unfrozen water. It is also important to check on older family members, friends, and neighbors, and to use portable heaters safely. Looking ahead, sunny and milder weather is expected for Tuesday, followed by a gradual warmup through the week, with highs peaking in the mid-60s on Thursday. There is a chance of a shower late Thursday night into early Friday morning, but temperatures will remain warm enough to keep precipitation in liquid form.
Person of Interest in Brown University Shooting Released Without Charges
A person of interest detained in connection with the fatal mass shooting at Brown University is being released without charges, according to Providence Mayor Brett Smiley. The shooting occurred on Saturday, resulting in two deaths and nine injuries. The person of interest, a man in his mid-20s from Wisconsin, was initially caught at a hotel in Coventry, Rhode Island, and was found to be in possession of two guns. However, Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha stated that evidence now points in a different direction, leading to the individual's release. The shooting took place at the school's Barus & Holley building, where engineering and physics classes are held, during a final exam review. Eight of the nine injured victims remained in the hospital on Sunday, with six in critical but stable condition. A shelter-in-place order was lifted early Sunday, and authorities are continuing to investigate the incident. The FBI assisted in locating the person of interest using geolocation capabilities, and a tip from the public led police to the hotel where the individual was detained. The university's president, Christina H. Paxson, expressed devastation and sorrow over the incident, stating that "no parent or family member should ever have to endure a day like this." The investigation is ongoing, with authorities examining ballistic evidence and conducting searches to determine the person responsible for the shooting. Mayor Smiley assured the community that they can "breathe a little easier" but emphasized that the status of safety remains unchanged.
US Seizes Oil Tanker Off Venezuela's Coast, Cuba Denounces Action as 'Piracy'
The US has seized the Skipper oil tanker, carrying nearly 2 million barrels of Venezuelan heavy crude, off the coast of Venezuela. Cuba has denounced the action as "piracy and maritime terrorism" and a "serious violation of international law." The tanker was initially headed for Cuba but changed course, and its seizure is part of the US effort to interrupt Venezuela's oil exports and increase pressure on President Nicolás Maduro. The US Treasury Department has also imposed new sanctions on shipping companies and vessels doing business with Venezuela, as well as on members of Maduro's family. The seizure of the Skipper has reportedly led to a sharp fall in Venezuelan oil exports. The US has moved additional military assets to the Caribbean, including search and rescue aircraft, rescue helicopters, and electronic attack jets. The US effort to disrupt Venezuela's oil exports is part of a broader campaign to target the global "shadow fleet" of oil tankers believed to be breaking international energy sanctions. Venezuela has condemned the US seizure as "blatant theft and an act of international piracy." The US has justified the seizure, citing the vessel's alleged involvement in supporting terrorism-designated groups. The FBI director has stated that the seizure highlights the successful efforts to impose costs on the governments of Venezuela and Iran. The incident has escalated tensions between the US, Venezuela, and Cuba, with Cuba relying heavily on Venezuelan oil exports in exchange for medical expertise and security personnel.