Climate change is driving up insurance costs for homeowners across the US, with skyrocketing rates and even dropped policies in many states. In 2024, 27 weather-related disasters caused at least $1 billion in damages, with the average annual cost of those events topping $149 billion – more than double the annual average cost between 1980 … Read more
Mark Carney, the former Bank of Canada and Bank of England governor, has formally announced his candidacy for leader of Canada’s governing Liberal Party. The 59-year-old economist made the announcement in his hometown of Edmonton, Alberta, marking a significant move into Canadian politics. Carney’s bid is seen as an attempt to ground himself in Canadian … Read more
A catastrophic wildfire is raging outside of Los Angeles, threatening nearby neighborhoods and infrastructure. The Eaton Fire, one of several damaging blazes in the region, has already destroyed 4,627 structures as of January 15. The blaze has also injured firefighters and taken lives. NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), which operates out of a nearby site, … Read more
Oil company BP is cutting 4,700 jobs worldwide as part of a cost-saving drive aimed at reducing expenses by $2 billion by the end of 2026. CEO Murray Auchincloss said in an email to staff that the job losses account for much of the anticipated reduction this year and will leave about 5% of the … Read more
South Africa’s government is facing intense criticism for its handling of a mining crisis that left hundreds of miners without food and water, resulting in at least 78 deaths. Rescuers have pulled out 166 survivors, but an estimated 100 others have died from starvation and dehydration. The Federation of Trade Unions (SAFTU) describes the situation … Read more
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has authorized the marketing of Zyn nicotine pouches, citing extensive scientific review. The move marks the first time the agency has approved a nicotine pouch product. Zyn garnered attention online after promotional efforts by influencers, who touted its benefits as “lower risk” compared to cigarettes and most smokeless … Read more
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s visit to Kyiv marks a week of intensified diplomatic efforts by NATO allies seeking to demonstrate their commitment to Ukraine amid uncertainty surrounding the incoming US administration. The two countries have signed a “100-year partnership” agreement, which adds maritime security, social integration, and a program to track stolen grain, but … Read more
Celebrity powerhouses Lady Gaga and Billie Eilish will headline a benefit concert for those affected by the devastating California wildfires. The FireAid event, scheduled for January 30, also features Jelly Roll, Lil Baby, Tate McRae, and Gwen Stefani. The lineup is still growing with rumored appearances from the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Green Day, and … Read more
Toyota’s heavy-duty trucking unit has been fined $1.6 billion by US regulators for violating emissions testing and smuggling engines into the country. The company’s actions are alleged to be fraudulent, with officials accusing it of engaging in illicit activities. The fine was announced on Wednesday, marking a significant penalty for Toyota’s actions. The exact nature … Read more
As January marks Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, it’s essential to acknowledge the significant progress made in preventing cervical cancer. However, with over 11,500 cases expected in the US this year, efforts must continue to educate people about screenings and HPV vaccinations. Stony Brook Cancer Center’s Cancer Prevention in Action (CPiA) program aims to reduce cervical … Read more