by admin | Mar 31, 2025 | africa, armed forces, military, news, united states armed forces
On March 30, 2025, Addis Ababa — According to an official announcement, US Africa Command (AFRICOM) conducted airstrikes targeting locations affiliated with the Islamic State in Somalia.
The AFRICOM website stated that the operation took place on March 29, in conjunction with the Somali government.
The attacks were directed at ISIS locations southeast of Bosaso in Somalia’s Puntland region, according to reports.
“According to the statement, AFRICOM’s preliminary evaluation indicates that several ISIS-Somalia operatives were reportedly killed, with no harm reported to civilian individuals,” it was disclosed.
The military announcement stated that the extremists presented a risk to American troops. Further information regarding the mission was not disclosed.
The statement from AFRICOM also highlighted that ISIS-Somalia has demonstrated both its intent and ability to target American and allied forces. Additionally, they warned that these hostile actions pose a threat to U.S. security interests.
“AFRICOM, alongside the Federal Government of Somalia and Somali Armed Forces, continues to take action to degrade ISIS-Somalia’s ability to plan and conduct attacks that threaten the U.S. homeland, our forces, and our civilians abroad,” according to the statement.
Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. (
Syndigate.info
).
by admin | Mar 30, 2025 | disaster management, environmental disasters, natural disasters, news, rainfall
Officials caution that increased slope drainage capabilities will be necessary due to anticipated more severe weather conditions in the coming years.
As much as 60 percent of the landslides occurring annually on Hong Kong’s private slopes can be attributed to inadequate upkeep, according to findings from local authorities. They are now pressing for slope owners to address these issues due to the effects of climate change.
Government specialists stated that slopes would become susceptible to more severe weather conditions.
“Given the expectation of more severe weather conditions ahead, we may see increased precipitation during wet seasons, necessitating enhanced drainage capabilities for hillsides,” explained Lawrence Shum Ka-wah, who serves as the assistant director of the Geotechnical Engineering Office located on Hong Kong Island.
Are you curious about the most significant issues and global trends? Find out here.
SCMP Knowledge
Our latest platform offers carefully selected content including explanations, frequently asked questions, detailed analysis, and informative infographics, all provided by our prestigious team.
He mentioned that drainage systems can handle obstructions caused by leaves or branches, yet extremely severe weather conditions have the potential to surpass their capacity.
On average, about 10 to 20 landslides took place annually on privately owned slopes throughout the last ten years, according to Shum, referencing a departmental assessment.
Typically, around 30 to 60 percent of these issues stemmed from inadequate maintenance by property owners.
He stated that the areas affected by landslides were determined by the pattern of rainfall, noting that no particular district needed extra focus. However, he emphasized that upkeep would be the primary issue to address.
Shum stated that authorities reported over 50 landslides on private slopes in 2023, during what was termed a “once-in-500-years storm.” Of these incidents, 30 percent resulted from inadequate maintenance.
The severe weather condition activated the city’s most extended black rainstorm alert, lasting over 16 hours. This transformed roads into waterways and left motorists trapped in their cars, while also inundating malls and train terminals. Over 100 individuals required medical attention at hospitals.
Shum additionally pointed out to the owners that they could bear responsibility for maintaining adjacent land parcels, even though these might not be detailed in their land lease agreements.
Currently, about 2,500 man-made slopes located on government land are maintained by private owners of adjoining lots.
Each year, the department chooses 100 individual ski slopes for safety inspections conducted by them.
When individuals are classified as hazardous, the authorities issue a Dangerous Slope Order (DSO) to the property owners. This order mandates them to conduct investigations and undertake required preventative measures using certified specialists.
By 2023, as stated by Robert Cheng, the chief building surveyor at the Buildings Department, 271 DHOs still remained unfulfilled by private property owners.
He urged the owners to keep their slopes maintained in order to avoid the risk of landslides.
Cheng also mentioned that routine inspections of the slopes as well as underground water pipelines were essential.
The administration likewise provides assistance to proprietors encountering monetary challenges, including grants and financing options.
More Articles from SCMP
Hong Kong coaches lay out year’s plans after teams clinch Melrose Claymores double
Hong Kong rescue team set to begin work in quake-hit Myanmar
Small individuals encounter obstacles yet strive for recognition and social transformation.
Hong Kong Sevens: New Zealand women achieve ‘three-peat’ with victory over Australia in the finals
The article initially appeared on the South ChinaMorning Post (www.scmp.com), which serves as the premier source for news coverage of China andAsia.
Copyright © 2025. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.
by admin | Mar 30, 2025 | airline industry, aviation, flying, news, resignations
-
Todd Sampson declares his intention to leave on July 31
Long-standing
Qantas
Todd Sampson, who serves as director, has declared his exit from the airline’s board.
Mr Sampson will resign on July 31, coinciding with the nearing completion of the fleet renewal process under chairman John Mullen.
The ex-advertising executive initially became part of the board in 2015.
In 2023, when he faced off against shareholders, approximately 36 percent of the votes were cast against his reappointment to the board.
At the time, critics were skeptical about whether the company director and TV personality could make it through his upcoming three-year term.
Read more
by admin | Mar 30, 2025 | crime, crimes, government, immigration, news
The interior minister stated that the deportee is affiliated with a gang from Trujillo state known as ‘El Cagon,’ without providing further details about the individual’s identity.
Venezuelan officials announced the arrival on Sunday of a fresh batch of 175 expellees from the U.S., which included a notorious gang leader — this being the initial instance where Caracas acknowledged that a convict was part of such returnees.
US President
Donald Trump
Since taking office in January, they have initiated a stringent approach towards immigrants, resulting in the deportation of numerous individuals to Latin American countries. These people have been labeled as “criminals” by their government.
“For the first time, during these trips… an individual of significance has arrived who is wanted by the Venezuelan judicial system,” stated Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello.
Are you looking for insights into the most significant issues and developments globally? Find your answers here.
SCMP Knowledge
Our updated platform features handpicked content including explainers, FAQs, analyses, and infographics, all provided by our acclaimed team.
The minister also stated that the individual “does not come from Tren de Aragua,” alluding to the Venezuelan gang which Washington has labeled as a “foreign terrorist organization” and alleges that numerous deported Venezuelan migrants are affiliated with this group.
Cabello welcomed the migrants at the Maiquetia International Airport, which serves Caracas.
“He is associated with a gang from Trujillo state, known as ‘El Cagon,’ ” Cabello said, without providing additional information about the criminal’s identity.
Cabello mentioned that regarding the migrants received by
Venezuela
So far, none have been part of Tren de Aragua.
In 2019, Venezuela and the United States severed their diplomatic ties, but they reconciled in January to discuss arrangements for deportation flights.
The collaboration was halted for a month following Washington’s crackdown on Venezuela’s oil industry, but services restarted just last week.
The flight that arrived on Sunday was the third to land since operations resumed.
Altogether, 918 individuals have reached Venezuela following their deportation from the United States. Additionally, 553 migrants have come back from elsewhere.
Mexico
, though it remained uncertain if they had been initially deported from US territory.
On Saturday, Venezuela’s President Nicolás Maduro stated that the U.S. had deported 324 Venezuelan immigrants to a high-security prison.
El Salvador
, noting that an official list had not been supplied.
According to the
United Nations
Nearly eight million Venezuelans have departed their nation due to an economic crisis that started showing signs of improvement in 2021.
The authorities assert that over 1.2 million individuals have come back.
More Articles from SCMP
Comac C949: China reveals stealthy supersonic aircraft offering 50% greater range compared to Concorde
‘Preposterous’: Starving Hong Kong Sevens attendees criticize insufficient food options at Kai Tak Stadium
Hong Kong coaches outline yearly strategies following teams’ victory in the Melrose Claymores doubles competition.
Here are seven top new Korean dramas premiering in April 2025, featuring Netflix’s gripping thriller “Karma.”
The article initially appeared on the South ChinaMorning Post (www.scmp.com), which is the premier source for news coverage of China andAsia.
Copyright © 2025. South ChinaMorning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.
by admin | Mar 30, 2025 | business, fast food, fast food industry, news, restaurant chains
Whataburger has recruited former
McDonald’s
executive Todd Ewen to aid in accelerating its ongoing expansion.
The American quick-service restaurant company verified that Ewen will assume the position of senior vice president and chief development officer starting from March 24.
“I am eager to assist the leadership team in achieving the significant growth objectives they have outlined,” Ewen stated.
It is reported that Whataburger lured away the US-native Ewen, boasting two decades of expertise, to aid in their ongoing successful growth across the country.
“We aim to introduce Honey Butter Biscuits along with exceptional hospitality to over 24 million additional customers this year,” stated Whataburger Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer Alexander Ivannikov.
Todd’s extensive knowledge of real estate within the fast-food sector will play a crucial role in assisting Whataburger in implementing their expansion plan. This will ensure that delectable meals and excellent experiences reach additional communities and attract more enthusiasts.
In his new position, Ewen will transition from serving the globe’s leading hamburger company to joining one of the top 100 largest companies in the United States.
The Golden arches has 14,000 locations in the US alone, compared to just over 1,000 Whataburger restaurants.
The company based in Texas is developing its five-year expansion strategy, as President and CEO Debbie Stroud affirmed that they go over this annually.
Stroud mentioned that the review assists them in determining where they can make the most significant difference.
As part of its strategy, it aims to keep growing with intentions to establish new eateries in various locations.
North Carolina
this year.
“For North Carolina particularly, this year it focuses on Charlotte and the nearby regions, while next year it will shift to Raleigh and its surrounding areas,” Stroud explained.
QSR
.
The
Texas
-based chain has already expanded to six additional states, including
Florida
and
Georgia
.
It is also set to launch another site in San Antonio, Texas, via a collaboration with Love’s Travel Shops.
Whataburger has not disclosed its sales forecast for 2025, however, it generated more than $4 billion in revenue last year.
Stroud mentioned that the company intends to broaden its reach to additional states down the line, yet he advised fans to ‘keep an eye out’ for updates.
In 2000, Ewen started his professional journey as a commercial real estate officer at US Bank Corporation.
He was
In 2009, they were appointed as a McDonald’s regional real estate manager, and then took on the role of development director in 2013.
In 2016, the executive departed from the fast-food chain and established L3 Commercial Development in Raleigh, North Carolina, the following year.
In those years, he headed over
$300 million in leasing and buying deals, while also connecting with various brokers, developers, and investors.
Ewen expressed gratitude towards the ‘amazing individuals’ he has collaborated with, and mentioned that he recognized Whataburger as ‘something extraordinary’ in a social media post.
LinkedIn
.
The ex-McDonald’s worker from North Carolina has verified his plans to relocate to San Antonio.
In addition to the expansion, Whataburger is marking its anniversary.
75th birthday
with various offers.
Among its new menu items was the Monterey Melt, a dish that the chain stated had been frequently requested.
Instagram
and
Reddit
.
Whataburger started offering both Mexican Hot Chocolate Coffee and the Mexican Hot Chocolate Shake.
Among the new offerings for its anniversary, the chain introduced a ‘digital home’ feature and also revealed a partnership with well-known clothing label Wrangler.
The firm intends to present an array of additional promotions and competitions as it approaches its birthday on August 8.
Read more
by admin | Mar 30, 2025 | disasters, emergencies, news, severe weather, storms
A significant storm system is currently moving through the central U.S., bringing with it an array of hazardous weather conditions including intense thunderstorms, tornadoes, and ice storms. This has resulted in widespread power outages affecting hundreds of thousands of people and placing millions at risk of damage from these destructive forces.
Over 75 million Americans find themselves within the danger area as the enormous weather system moves eastwards, potentially setting off tornado watches, flash flood warnings, and ice storm alerts across several states.
‘A wide area spanning much of the Southeast along with parts of the lower and mid sections will likely experience multiple intense thunderstorms throughout today and into the night.’
Mississippi
Valley into the
Ohio
valleys and the southern Great Lakes region,’
NOAA’s Storm Prediction Center
announced Sunday.
The statement went on to say, ‘There is a high likelihood of extensive areas experiencing damaging winds. Additionally, significant-sized hail and multiple tornadoes are expected from supercell thunderstorms. Some of these tornadoes might be intense.’
About twelve tornadoes might strike cities such as Little Rock.
Arkansas
; Memphis and Nashville in Tennessee; Paducah,
Kentucky
; Evansville and Bloomington,
Indiana
as early as Sunday afternoon and evening.
Severe weather forecasted for Monday is anticipated to impact the busy Interstate 81, 85, and 95 routes stretching from New Orleans to Atlanta, Charlotte, and Washington.
DC
, Philadelphia and
New York City
, as reported
Accuweather
.
By late Saturday evening, a tornado warning had been issued for large parts of the region.
Oklahoma
until 1 am Sunday,
ABC News
noted, since forecasters cautioned about ‘substantially sized hail along with destructive wind gusts’ throughout the southern Plains region.
This might affect significant areas such as Oklahoma City and Dallas throughout the evening.
Southern
Louisiana
Near Baton Rouge was likewise subject to a flash flood warning, as certain regions had already received up to 4.5 inches of rainfall.
Meteorologists anticipate an additional 1 to 2 inches could occur by early Sunday.
Destruction has already started in sections of the Midwest, with over 200,000 customers experiencing power outages—67,631 in northern Wisconsin and an astounding 148,141 in northern Michigan.
Michigan
– Following a major ice storm that led to extensive tree destruction and complicated travel, according to TMJ4.
Local authorities indicate that several counties in northern Michigan are facing widespread power outages, impacting more than 90 percent of inhabitants, due to trees falling onto electrical wires.
On Sunday, the situation might worsen due to the storm moving eastwards, bringing about several waves of severe weather systems anticipated to move across eastern Texas up to the southern Great Lakes region during the daytime and extending through the nighttime hours.
This is where the highest likelihood of hazardous severe thunderstorms is anticipated.
Meteorologists have likewise alerted about a particularly hazardous area prone to intense tornadoes extending from eastern Arkansas into western regions.
Tennessee
and Kentucky into southwestern Indiana.
It might affect residents in Memphis, Nashville, Louisville, and Evansville.
In addition, thunderstorms accompanied by heavy rainfall are advancing towards the Carolinas and Asheville—areas that have recently experienced wildfires because of arid weather conditions.
On Saturday, seven states ranging from New York to North Carolina continued to face Increased Fire Risk.
Many regions will continue to face significant weather hazards throughout the night.
At the same time, the northern part of the storm is ushering in a cold front, with predictions of snow and ice stretching from North Dakota all the way to New England.
Warnings of an ice storm have been posted for Wisconsin and Michigan, with forecasts indicating that as much as a half-inch of ice could accumulate on roads, trees, and electrical systems.
By Monday, this damaging system will hit the East Coast and the I-95 corridor, possibly affecting zones ranging from Upstate New York to Tallahassee and New Orleans, bringing along hazardous winds and potential twisters in the southern parts.
Read more
