THREAD: severe weather kills historic plantation

TRUMP’S Historic Arms Deal Shocks World: $142 Billion Boost For America

15 May 2025 — President Trump just signed a record $142 billion arms deal with Saudi Arabia. This is the biggest defense sale in US history. The agreement gives Saudi Arabia advanced military gear, weapons, and support from American companies.

Part of the deal includes gas turbines and $3.3 billion worth of air-to-air missiles for Saudi jets. US officials say this strengthens our foreign policy and keeps a key ally close in the Gulf region.

Saudi Arabia also plans to invest up to $600 billion in America over four years. President Trump wants that number to reach $1 trillion. This trip was his first official visit of his second term, showing strong ties between Washington and Riyadh.

This deal proves America’s promise to keep the Middle East stable while creating jobs and bringing money back home.

REFORM UK’S EARTHSHAKING WIN: Voters Reject Old Parties in Historic Election

03 May 2025 — Nigel Farage celebrated Friday night as his REFORM UK party scored big wins in local elections across England. Reform took control of ten councils, won two mayor races, a parliamentary byelection, and grabbed 677 council seats. The BBC said if these results happened nationwide, Reform could lead the next government.

Farage called it a “Reformquake” and told supporters this was a “truly historic landmark” for Britain. For decades, Labour and Conservatives have ruled politics. Now both parties are stunned by Reform’s surge.

Farage promised real change for local government. He warned council workers focused on “climate change initiatives or diversity equity and inclusion” to look for new jobs. Reform campaigned hard on national issues like stopping illegal migration and ending taxpayer-funded migrant housing.

Voters fed up with establishment politics backed Reform’s message. Farage says the party will use this momentum to push even harder at the next General Election — hoping to make history once again.

SUPREME COURT Shock: Angry Trans Activists Deface Historic London Statues

21 April 2025 — Furious activists filled Parliament Square after the British Supreme Court ruled that sex is biologically binary. The court’s decision blocks men who identify as women from entering women-only spaces. Protesters responded by vandalizing statues, including the famous suffragette Millicent Fawcett monument.

Demonstrators held signs saying “trans women are real women” and “biology is not binary.” Palestinian flags and transgender symbols waved side by side, as speakers urged unity between trans activists and pro-Palestinian groups.

The crowd chanted, “One struggle, one fight: Palestine — trans rights.” Many online slammed this message as out of touch since LGBTQ people face harsh punishment under Islamist regimes like Hamas in Gaza. In much of the Middle East, homosexuality is illegal and can lead to severe penalties.

Critics called out the protestors for being either ignorant or hypocritical. Author Aviva Klompas said their lack of awareness was shocking, while former IDF spokesman Peter Lerner noted that many LGBTQ Palestinians escape to Israel to avoid persecution in Gaza.

WEATHER SERVICE Shortage Sparks Safety Fears

04 April 2025 — The National Weather Service is critically understaffed, with nearly half of its forecast offices facing 20% vacancy rates. This shortage coincides with a rise in severe weather events across the country. In Arkansas, where tornadoes and heavy rain recently struck, eight offices report over 35% vacancies.

Experts warn these staffing levels put public safety at risk. The service issues urgent warnings during dangerous storms like the recent tornadoes that caused seven deaths and ongoing catastrophic flooding. With at least 75 tornado reports this week alone, meteorologists are under increasing pressure.

In Kentucky, shortages forced meteorologists to choose between immediate warnings and future forecasting improvements. Brad Colman, a former American Meteorological Society president, voiced concerns about potential loss of life due to these shortages. Former National Weather Service chief Louis Uccellini echoed these worries about stretched resources amid rising severe weather threats nationwide.

DEADLY STORM Chaos: America’s Heartland in Ruins

17 March 2025 — A DEADLY storm system has unleashed chaos across the United States, resulting in at least 39 fatalities and widespread destruction. Tornadoes, dust storms, and wildfires have ravaged communities, leaving hundreds of homes and businesses destroyed. The devastation was particularly severe over the weekend as the storm swept through multiple states.

As of Monday, this volatile weather pattern is moving into the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic regions. Residents brace for thunderstorms, hail, damaging winds, and potential tornadoes. Authorities urge vigilance as they closely monitor this unpredictable system’s path.

In Plantersville, Alabama, Tony Robertson was seen maneuvering his damaged pickup truck after a tornado struck on Sunday. His experience highlights how these extreme weather events impact everyday Americans’ lives.

“CYCLONE Alfred’s WRATH: Brisbane Braces for Historic Storm”

08 March 2025 — Tropical Cyclone ALFRED has weakened to a tropical low as it approaches Brisbane. It was initially expected to hit on Saturday, marking the first cyclone near Queensland’s capital since 1974.

Severe weather is already causing chaos, with strong winds and rain pounding the east coast. Authorities have issued evacuation orders after reports of a man missing in floodwaters.

Residents are seeking shelter from turbulent seas, highlighting the storm’s potential dangers. This significant weather event is the first cyclone in 51 years to approach Brisbane’s coastline.

SHOCKING ATTACK: Gunman Kills Iranian Supreme Court Judges

19 January 2025 — A gunman in Tehran, Iran, shot and killed two Supreme Court judges before taking his own life. The attack has shocked the judicial community and raised security concerns for public officials. Witnesses described chaos during the incident, highlighting regional tensions.

State media reported widespread condemnation from political and social leaders in Iran. Authorities are investigating the motives behind this targeted attack on key legal figures. The judges’ deaths could spark debates on official safety and Iran’s political climate.

This event occurs amid unrest and pressure on judicial independence in Iran. Public reaction is a mix of shock and outrage, with calls for immediate protective measures for authority figures.

Details about the shooter remain unclear as law enforcement investigates further. This developing story will continue to unfold as more information becomes available.

UK Weather CHAOS: SEVERE Flooding Sparks Urgent Evacuations

14 January 2025 — Heavy snowfall and continuous rain have caused severe disruptions across the UK. Authorities warn of worsening flood conditions as emergency services assist with evacuations and road clearances. Power outages plague several counties due to fallen trees damaging power lines.

Transportation services, including trains and buses, face significant delays, with some routes completely suspended. Local councils advise residents to prepare for potential evacuations as river levels rise. Meteorologists predict bad weather could last until later in the week, increasing flood risks.

Residents are urged to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel during ongoing weather emergencies. Authorities coordinate with relief organizations to support those affected by floods. Safety reminders include keeping emergency supplies ready and staying updated with weather reports if travel is necessary.

AUSTRALIAN Writer’s HISTORIC WIN Stirs Emotions

20 November 2024 — Australian author Richard Flanagan has made history by winning Britain’s prestigious Baillie Gifford Prize for nonfiction. This achievement comes ten years after he won the Booker Prize for fiction. His award-winning memoir, “Question 7,” mixes autobiography with family history and the story of the atomic bomb’s development.

Flanagan previously won the Booker Prize in 2014 for “The Narrow Road to the Deep North.” The novel was inspired by his father’s experiences as a World War II prisoner under Japanese captivity. Toby Mundy, Baillie Gifford Prize director, noted that winning both top U.K.-based fiction and nonfiction awards is unprecedented.

Isabel Hilton, chair of the judging panel, called Flanagan’s work a “meditative symphony.” She praised how it weaves together major traumatic events of the 20th century with a unique personal story. Hilton pointed out that Flanagan’s background in fiction added inventiveness and narrative quality to his book.

Flanagan did not attend the award ceremony in London to accept his trophy personally. Organizers shared that he was trekking through Tasmania’s rainforest at the time of his historic win.

KING CHARLES’ Historic Visit to Samoa Ignites Local JOY

23 October 2024 — Dozens of Samoans gathered in Siumu village to see King Charles III, marking the first visit by a British monarch to a Pacific Island nation. The royal motorcade passed through on Wednesday, with locals waving eagerly as they caught glimpses of the king and Queen Camilla.

Numio Faoagali, a local garbage collector, was thrilled to see King Charles in person for the first time. He spent days decorating his home with Union flags and hoped the king would notice his efforts during his stay at a nearby resort.

King Charles’s visit aligns with an important Commonwealth leaders’ meeting in Samoa, raising questions about Britain’s historical ties to former colonies. Despite these complex issues, local residents were excited that their village was chosen for this historic event.

Many Samoans traveled long distances just for this rare occasion, highlighting the significance of the royal visit for those who have only seen such figures on television until now.

HURRICANE MILTON’S Fury: Tampa Bay Braces for Historic Impact

08 October 2024 — Hurricane Milton, though slightly weakened, still poses a major threat to the Tampa Bay area. With winds reaching 145 mph, it could deliver a once-in-a-century direct hit. The storm’s approach has prompted hurricane warnings along Florida’s west and east coasts.

The storm is expected to make landfall Wednesday night in the densely populated Tampa Bay region, home to over 3.3 million residents. Local authorities have ordered evacuations for vulnerable areas and mobile homes by Tuesday night. Governor Ron DeSantis reassured residents about fuel availability and advised them to evacuate only tens of miles if needed.

Despite warnings, some residents like Martin Oakes from Apollo Beach plan to stay put and face the storm head-on. “We got shutters up; the house is all ready,” Oakes said while waiting for gas in Riverview. This sentiment reflects a common resolve among locals preparing for Milton’s impact.

TEEN SHOOTER Kills Four in Georgia School Tragedy

05 September 2024 — A 14-year-old boy opened fire at Apalachee High School in Winder, Georgia, killing four and wounding nine. The victims include two students and two teachers.

The shooter, armed with an assault-style rifle, targeted students in a hallway after being denied re-entry to his algebra class. He has been charged as an adult.

Nine injured individuals were taken to hospitals and are expected to survive. The teen will be held at a regional youth detention facility starting Thursday.

HISTORIC Somerset House In FLAMES: Firefighters Battle Massive Blaze

18 August 2024 — Smoke billowed from Somerset House as flames erupted from the roof. Firefighters on tall ladders showered water to control the blaze. The cause remains unknown, according to the London Fire Brigade.

About 100 firefighters and 15 engines were deployed to tackle the fire. Somerset House confirmed all staff and public were safe, and the site was closed.

The historic building, nearly 250 years old, houses the Courtauld Gallery with works by Van Gogh, Manet, and Cezanne. A scheduled breakdancing event was canceled due to the incident.

NETANYAHU VOWS Swift Justice After Hezbollah Attack Kills Children

29 July 2024 — The Israeli response to Hezbollah’s rocket attack in Lebanon is imminent after the group targeted a children’s soccer field, killing 12 young people. Early Monday, Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reportedly executed a drone strike in southern Lebanon, resulting in the deaths of two Hezbollah terrorists. The IDF has not commented on the strike.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a three-hour cabinet meeting on Sunday, authorizing him and his defense minister to determine the “manner and timing” of a military response. Danny Danon, Israel’s new ambassador to the United Nations, told “Fox and Friends” that Israel’s response will be “swift, harsh and painful,” but clarified there are no intentions for a full war.

Netanyahu visited Majdal Shams on Monday and announced that Israel’s response to the massacre “will come and it will be severe.” He expressed solidarity with the Druze Israeli community, emphasizing their shared grief. U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke with Israeli President Isaac Herzog about the situation on Monday as well.

IRANIAN DRONE Strike In TEL Aviv Kills ONE Near US Embassy

19 July 2024 — An Iranian-made drone sent by Yemen’s Houthi rebels struck Tel Aviv on Friday, killing one person and injuring at least 10 others. The attack occurred near the U.S. Embassy, causing shrapnel and glass to rain down over a large area.

Israel’s military believes the drone was an upgraded Samad-3 from Iran, launched from Yemen. Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari stated that an investigation is ongoing to determine the origin of the threat and appropriate responses.

The Houthis claimed responsibility for the strike, calling it retaliation for Israel’s war with Hamas. Until now, Israel and its Western allies had intercepted all previous Houthi drones and missiles aimed at Israel during this conflict.

RUSSIAN MISSILE Strike Kills 17 In Ukraine: Zelenskyy Calls For Action

08 July 2024 — A Russian missile barrage targeted five Ukrainian cities, hitting apartment buildings and public infrastructure. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported the attack on social media, noting that Kryvyi Rih, his birthplace, saw 10 people killed and 47 injured. Kyiv authorities confirmed seven deaths in the capital.

The world should not be silent about it now," Zelenskyy urged on social media. Western leaders are gathering for a three-day NATO summit in Washington to discuss continued support for Ukraine amid Europe’s largest conflict since World War II.

In Kyiv, rescuers searched for survivors at Okhmatdyt children’s hospital after a missile caused part of the building to collapse. Sixteen people were injured, including seven children. The hospital was forced to shut down and evacuate as volunteers and emergency crews worked tirelessly amid rising smoke and debris.

POPULIST PVV Surge: Historic Gains in European Parliament

07 June 2024 — The Party for Freedom (PVV) is set to secure at least seven seats in the European Parliament, according to exit polls. This marks a significant gain from zero seats in 2019. Ipsos estimates show this as the largest gain for any Dutch party and a historic high for PVV.

Despite this success, the Green Left and Labour Party alliance is predicted to win eight seats, one fewer than their combined total in 2019. Geert Wilders expressed optimism about potentially gaining an additional seat when official results are released. He stated, “We have never had seven seats before… We are by far the biggest winner.”

Wilders believes this result signals a broader trend across Europe against mass migration policies. He said that Eurosceptical voices will grow stronger within the European Parliament, sending a clear message to Brussels elites.

Tom Van Grieken of Belgium’s Vlaams Belang echoed Wilders’ sentiment, calling it a “very hopeful signal” for similar parties across Europe. He noted that what happened in the Netherlands could also happen in Flanders on Sunday.

HOUSTON BATTLES Deadly Heat And Smog After Storms

19 May 2024 — Houston is working to restore power to hundreds of thousands after deadly storms left at least seven dead. The area faces a smog warning and scorching temperatures.

National Weather Service meteorologist Marc Chenard forecasts highs around 90 degrees through the start of the week, with heat indexes approaching 100 degrees by midweek. “We expect the impact of the heat to gradually increase,” Chenard said.

The weather service warns residents not to overexert themselves during cleanup efforts. Poor air quality could also pose health risks over the weekend in Houston.

KHAN SECURES Historic Third Term: Conservatives Grapple with Defeat in London

04 May 2024 — Sadiq Khan of the Labour Party has won a third term as London’s mayor, securing nearly 44% of the vote. He outpaced his Conservative rival, Susan Hall, by more than 11 percentage points. This win is noted as the largest individual mandate in U.K. political history.

Contrary to expectations of a close contest, Khan’s significant lead reflects a shift from Conservative to Labour support since the last election in 2021. His time in office has been mixed, with progress in housing and transport but also rising crime rates and criticism over policies perceived as anti-car.

In his victory speech, Khan spoke about unity and resilience against negativity and division. He celebrated London’s diversity as its core strength and took a firm stand against right-wing populism. The eccentric candidate Count Binface added an unusual twist to the event with his presence at the announcement ceremony.

SOUTH KOREAN Election Shocker: Voters Lean Left in Historic Turn

11 April 2024 — South Korean voters, upset by the economic slump, are showing their disapproval towards President Yoon Suk-yeol and his ruling People Power Party (PPP). Early exit polls indicate a dramatic tilt in the National Assembly, with the opposition DP/DUP coalition on track to win between 168 and 193 of the 300 seats. This would leave Yoon’s PPP and its partners trailing with just 87-111 seats.

A record-breaking turnout of 67 percent — the highest for a midterm election since 1992 — reflects widespread voter engagement. South Korea’s unique proportional representation system aims to give smaller parties a chance but has resulted in a crowded field that confuses many voters.

PPP leader Han Dong-hoon has publicly recognized the disappointing exit poll figures. He pledged to honor the electorate’s decision and wait for the final tally. The election results could mark a pivotal change in South Korea’s political landscape, hinting at broader shifts ahead.

This electoral outcome underscores growing public discontent with current economic policies and signals a desire for change among South Korean voters, potentially reshaping the nation’s policy direction in years to come.

CRUMBLEY VERDICT: Parents Face Historic Accountability for Child’s Deadly Actions

15 March 2024 — In a landmark decision, a Michigan jury found James Crumbley guilty of four counts of involuntary manslaughter. This verdict stems from the fatal shooting carried out by his son, Ethan Crumbley, at Oxford High School in November 2021. The case marks an unprecedented moment in which parents are held liable for their child’s violent behavior.

James and Jennifer Crumbley faced charges after their 15-year-old son tragically ended the lives of four students and wounded seven others. Keith Johnson, a criminal defense attorney, suggests that this case could establish a new standard for parental accountability when weapons brought into homes result in mass shootings.

The Crumbleys have made history as the first parents to be tried in relation to a mass school shooting incident in the U.S. James was indicted for failing to properly secure his firearm at home and neglecting his son’s mental health concerns.

In line with his wife’s earlier decision during her separate trial in February, James elected not to testify during his trial. Jennifer was also found guilty on all charges and is set to receive her sentence next month.

STORM ISHA Unleashes Fury: UK and Ireland Brace for Deadly Winds

22 January 2024 — The United Kingdom and Ireland are on high alert as Storm Isha ushers in torrential rain and potentially fatal winds. The Met Office, which serves as the national weather service, has declared a comprehensive wind warning covering virtually the entire U.K. Additionally, there’s a tornado risk looming over Northern Ireland, northern England, and certain regions of Scotland.

Meteorologist Tom Morgan cautions against “life-threatening” winds that could trigger power outages. Coastal areas might confront massive waves hurling debris onto roads while trees stand a chance of being uprooted. Gusts clocking 90 miles per hour have already been reported in Wales’ mountainous Snowdonia region.

Storm Isha is wreaking havoc on travel schedules with Scotland’s railway operator halting service from Sunday night through Monday morning’s peak hours. Network Rail is enforcing speed restrictions to ward off accidents caused by fallen trees or debris strewn across tracks. In western Ireland, locals are advised to steer clear of the coast owing to destructive gusts

This marks the ninth storm named since September to assail parts of the U.K., leading to toppled trees, power failures, and river valley floods. The harsh weather conditions persist in disrupting everyday life while posing considerable safety hazards.

VATICAN SHOCKER: Cardinal Becciu Guilty in Historic Corruption Trial

18 December 2023 — In a groundbreaking trial, the first of its kind since 1929’s Lateran Treaty, Cardinal Becciu and nine others have been declared guilty. The charges ranged from embezzlement to bribery. This verdict is the culmination of an extensive trial revolving around a luxury London property deal that led to over 100 million euros loss for the Vatican.

The guilt wasn’t confined to Cardinal Becciu alone. Nine other defendants were also convicted on diverse charges tied to fund mismanagement and embezzlement. Furthermore, the company Logsic Humitarne Dejavnosti was slapped with a fine of 40,000 euros and forbidden from contracting with public authorities for two years.

Becciu’s sentence fell just short of the seven years three months that prosecution sought after. The trial uncovered that he had funneled over half a million euros in Vatican funds to Cecilia Marogna’s company for a project deemed fraudulent by the court. Marogna too was found guilty and handed down prison time.

Alongside his prison term, Cardinal Becciu has been permanently barred from holding any public office and fined 8,000 euros. His offenses included conspiracy and witness tampering in an attempt to muzzle key prosecution witness Msgr Alberto Perlasca.

MASSIVE Stand Against ANTISEMITISM: Boris Johnson Joins Thousands in Historic London March

28 November 2023 — On Sunday, an unprecedented number of people, including former U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson, took to the streets of London to protest against antisemitism. The march was strategically organized a day after a large pro-Palestinian rally and amidst rising tensions due to the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza. Organizers hailed it as the most significant demonstration against antisemitism in nearly a century.

The crowd was a sea of Israeli flags and Union Jacks, with participants bearing powerful placards like “Never Again Is Now” and “Zero Tolerance for Antisemites.” Alongside Johnson, U.K. Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis and other high-ranking government officials marched in unity with the Jewish community.

Notably detained at the event was Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, better known as Tommy Robinson, former leader of the far-right English Defence League. Earlier this month, Robinson had an altercation with police during an Armistice Day march in London after refusing to leave despite warnings that his presence could distress others.

Among those marching was 75-year-old Malcolm Canning from London who voiced his concerns about current anti-Jewish sentiment. He expressed his alarm at how anything associated with Judaism feels under attack now and lamented reaching such a stage in this country.