December 13, 2021

*) Race to find survivors as US tornadoes kill dozens Search and rescue operations continue across six US states after a string of powerful tornadoes and storms left a trail of destruction. Kentucky's governor says the storms were the worst in state history and the death toll is likely to exceed 100. From Arkansas to Illinois, around 30 fierce fierce tornadoes obliterated homes, businesses and in some cases, entire towns. *) G7 issues warning to Russia over Ukraine G7 countries are warning Russia it will face massive consequences if it launches a military invasion of Ukraine. US intelligence says Moscow could be planning a multi-front offensive involving up to 175,000 troops. The Kremlin rejected these claims, but says the possible inclusion of Ukraine in NATO threatens its borders and contravenes assurances given to Moscow when the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991. *) WHO: Over 500M pushed into poverty The World Health Organization says over 500 million people around the world were pushed into poverty last year during the pandemic. WHO says it's due to people having to pay their own healthcare costs as the pandemic has not only disrupted the global economy, but also health systems. WHO is urging countries to focus on revamping their healthcare systems and to make it more affordable to all. *) State of emergency declared after heavy flooding hits Brazil Brazil declared a state of emergency in almost 50 cities, after torrential rains swept through the country's north and southeast states, killing at least three people. Last week dozens of cities were cut off by floods, causing houses and bridges to collapse. Government will provide financial assistance to those who’ve lost their homes. And finally… *) Verstappen crowned F1 world champion Red Bull’s Max Verstappen is the new Formula One world champion after winning the final race of the season in Abu Dhabi. The Dutchman started on pole, but title rival Lewis Hamilton took the lead after a faster start, with the Brit chasing a historic 8th tit