Houses evacuated after huge town centre fire

At least 30 people have died and tens of thousands evacuated in Beijing due to severe flooding caused by heavy rains, with reports of up to 54cm of rainfall. The Beijing government has initiated a top-level emergency response, closing schools and suspending outdoor activities, while President Xi Jinping ordered extensive search and rescue operations as more rain is expected. Want More Context? 🔎

The Dutch government will summon Israel's ambassador to protest the "unbearable and indefensible" situation in Gaza, imposing travel bans on far-right ministers Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich for inciting violence against Palestinians. This action aligns with similar measures taken by other countries and includes support for EU recommendations on restricting Israeli access to research funding and potential trade sanctions. Want More Context? 🔎

Jessica Chen was attending a presentation in Midtown Manhattan when she heard gunshots and sought refuge with others in a conference room, where they barricaded themselves. A man in body armor killed at least four people before taking his own life; Chen expressed the fear and shock of the experience, highlighting the unfortunate reality of active shooter situations in America. Want More Context? 🔎

On July 29, 2025, a fire broke out in an HDB flat at Block 229 Toa Payoh Lorong 8, prompting a rapid response from the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) at around 1:10 PM. The scene saw thick smoke billowing from the tenth floor, with approximately nine SCDF vehicles and a crowd of about 100 people nearby, as firefighting operations continued. Want More Context? 🔎

The upcoming Ashes Test in Perth on November 21 is expected to be the largest cricket match ever held in the city, with the first day's tickets already sold out and the second day nearing capacity. This match marks the first Ashes Test at Optus Stadium and has generated significant interest, including over 20% of tickets sold to visitors from the east coast. Want More Context? 🔎

Five people died, including off-duty NYPD officer Didarul Islam, in a shooting at a high-rise office building in Manhattan, New York. The suspect, 27-year-old Shane Devon Tamura, died from a self-inflicted gunshot after opening fire in the lobby and upper floors, with the motive still unclear and a documented mental health history reported. Want More Context? 🔎