Southern California expects hazardous winds on Wednesday, with potential weekend rainfall that could bring toxic ash runoff. Firefighters control minor outbreaks and some residents return. LA County supervisors approve emergency measures to prevent further damage. Power shutoffs by Southern California Edison aim to prevent new fires.
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A federal judge has temporarily blocked former President Trump's orders to cut funding for DEI programs, citing free speech violations. The Trump administration argued that the orders target DEI programs that breach civil rights laws, but plaintiffs claim the orders are unconstitutional and suppress diversity efforts.
Vice President Kamala Harris did not extend the customary invitation to incoming Vice President JD Vance to familiarize him and his family with the Naval Observatory residence. Communication was later established between Vance's team and Navy officials to arrange details concerning the residence. Harris' team reportedly said they were busy canceling an overseas trip first and then with California wildfires.
As wildfires tore through Los Angeles, firefighters battled relentlessly to stop the flames from reaching iconic landmarks like the J Paul Getty Museum and UCLA. Fires have already destroyed over 12,000 structures across 56 square miles, and thousands of residents faced evacuation orders. Grim recovery efforts continue amid allegations of inadequate firefighting resources.
Hong Kong taxi drivers, known for their gruff demeanor and cash-only transactions, face pressure to modernize. Government initiatives aim to improve driver behavior and mandate digital payment systems and surveillance cameras by 2026. Many drivers resist these changes, citing concerns over constant monitoring and financial pressures in an increasingly expensive city.
Sixteen militants were killed by Pakistan's security forces as they attempted to cross the border from Afghanistan. Pakistan has repeatedly urged Afghanistan to prevent militants from operating near the frontier. The surge in attacks is largely attributed to Pakistani Taliban, bolstered by the Afghan Taliban's return to power.
Ukraine is willing to exchange captured North Korean soldiers for Ukrainian prisoners of war held by Russia. President Zelenskyy announced this potential swap on X. Ukraine claims to have captured two North Korean soldiers and accuses Pyongyang of sending troops to support Russia. Kyiv expects to capture more troops amidst ongoing battles.
Highway 407 drivers in Ontario can travel for free during rush hour in March, thanks to 407 ETR's promotion. The offer, available for personal vehicles with Ontario plates, requires signing up for an account by February 28. Tolls, camera charges, and account fees are waived, but transponder lease fees still apply.
EE has warned users about the increased risk of scams on Valentine's Day, urging caution when sharing personal details online. Many individuals disclose sensitive information too easily, leading to potential fraud and financial losses. Key red flags include requests for money, emotional manipulation, and avoiding video calls.
Bashar al-Assad, maintaining strict secrecy, misled aides and officials about his plans to flee Syria as his regime crumbled. He falsely assured military leaders of Russian support while orchestrating a covert departure for Moscow with his family. Left behind were his brother and cousins, who faced uncertain fates. Assad's pleas for military aid from both Russia and Iran were ultimately rejected.
Elon Musk is expected to launch the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) in the White House Complex, aimed at reducing government expenses. This initiative, co-led by Vivek Ramaswamy, intends to dismantle bureaucracy and cut wasteful spending. DOGE's mission is set for completion by July 4, 2026, while ethics rules and legal frameworks could complicate Musk’s involvement.