Natural disaster

A powerful earthquake registering 7.7 on the moment magnitude scale has struck central Myanmar early this morning, with tremors also affecting parts of Thailand, including the capital, Bangkok. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reports that the quake struck near Mandalay at 6:21am GMT, and experts warn that the shallow depth of only 10km (6 miles) could result in extensive damage and a rising death toll in the affected regions.

In a stunning turn of events that has sent shockwaves throughout the aviation industry, at least seven international flights departing from Bali have been cancelled after Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki, a 1,703-meter twin-peaked volcano located on the tourist island of Flores, erupted violently for 11 minutes and nine seconds late on Thursday. The eruption produced a thick, dark ash plume that soared 8 kilometers (approximately 5 miles) into the sky, forcing local authorities to take swift action and raise the volcano’s alert status to its highest level.

Australian actress Madeleine West has opened up about the emotional and physical toll of Tropical Cyclone Alfred, which has wreaked havoc on her $4.6 million home in Byron Bay. The 45-year-old star, who is heavily pregnant, shared her experience on Instagram, expressing fear and exhaustion as she braced for the storm’s impact.

American rapper and actor Ice Cube has revealed he is currently trapped in his Gold Coast hotel as Cyclone Alfred barrels towards the Australian coastline. The star, 55, appeared on Ten’s The Project on Wednesday night, where he recounted his experience of being caught in the path of what has been described as the region’s most severe cyclone in 70 years.

In a heartfelt interview with MSNBC's Katy Tur, actress Jennifer Garner shared her emotional experience following the Los Angeles wildfires that devastated her community and claimed the life of a close friend. Garner's reflections on grief, recovery, and community resilience highlight the urgent need for support in the aftermath of such disasters. As she partners with organizations like World Central Kitchen, her commitment to helping affected families shines a light on the importance of solidarity in times of crisis. This poignant narrative encapsulates the profound emotional impact of wildfires and the enduring strength found in community bonds.

On January 13, 2025, a magnitude 6.9 earthquake struck south-western Japan, affecting Miyazaki prefecture and prompting tsunami warnings. The incident highlights the country's ongoing seismic challenges and the importance of disaster preparedness. Local authorities activated emergency responses, ensuring the safety of residents while assessing damage and infrastructure integrity. As communities unite in the aftermath, the need for continuous improvement in disaster readiness is underscored. This blog post explores the details of the earthquake, the quick response from the Japan Meteorological Agency, and the ongoing efforts to enhance safety measures and support for those affected.

The Kenneth Fire, which ignited on January 6, 2025, in the San Fernando Valley of Los Angeles, has rapidly expanded, affecting thousands of residents and prompting evacuation orders. This blog post explores the causes, community responses, and personal stories from those impacted by the fire. It also emphasizes the importance of fire safety and preparedness measures to combat the increasing threat of wildfires in California. With firsthand accounts from residents and insights into psychological impacts, the article highlights the resilience and unity of the community during this challenging time.

The recent escalation of wildfires in Los Angeles has devastated communities and infrastructure, leading to dramatic evacuations, including that of actor Mark Hamill. This blog post explores the impacts of the fires, the responses from local authorities and celebrities, and the ongoing recovery efforts for affected residents. It highlights the importance of community support, preparedness, and state assistance in mitigating the effects of these natural disasters, while also acknowledging the emotional challenges faced by displaced families. Discover how the Los Angeles community is coming together in resilience and solidarity during this pressing crisis.