Head of FEMA’s storm response center leaving agency amid leadership exodus

Officials in Central Texas were aware of the flood risks in Kerr County, known as Flash Flood Alley, prior to the deadly July 4 floods that claimed over 130 lives. Despite efforts to secure funding for a flood warning system, which had been proposed for years, the project faced setbacks, with plans delayed after the flooding event. Want More Context? 🔎

A group of Democratic lawmakers, led by Senators Elizabeth Warren and Richard Blumenthal, is urging an investigation into the Department of Government Efficiency's (DOGE) integration into federal agencies following Elon Musk's departure as a special government employee. They expressed concerns that DOGE employees could undermine government functions, calling for enforcement of civil service regulations to prevent political patronage in hiring practices. Want More Context? 🔎

Researchers from the Anthropic Fellows Program for AI Safety Research are exploring a novel approach to prevent harmful personality traits in AI by intentionally introducing small doses of these traits during training, a method they call “preventative steering.” By using “persona vectors,” the AI can be immunized against developing negative behaviors while being shielded from retaining these traits before deployment, sparking both intrigue and concern in the AI safety community. Want More Context? 🔎

Ultra-processed foods constitute 62% of children's and teens' daily calories and 53% for adults, as reported by the CDC, marking the first estimates of their prevalence in American diets. This report has led to discussions on regulation and health risks associated with these foods, which are heavily marketed to children and linked to various chronic diseases. Want More Context? 🔎

The Kremlin announced an agreed-in-principle meeting between Presidents Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin, set to occur in the coming days, as Trump aims to address the war in Ukraine. This would mark their first in-person discussion during Trump's second term, following a recent shift in Trump's rhetoric towards a tougher stance against Russia's actions in Ukraine. Want More Context? 🔎

An eight-hour hearing regarding environmental concerns over the Florida migrant detention center "Alligator Alcatraz" raised questions about its management and compliance with environmental laws, as witnesses focused on local wildlife impacts rather than operational oversight. The court will resume hearings to address these issues and hear from state and federal officials, while plaintiffs argue that the facility's construction violated federal law due to lack of public input. Want More Context? 🔎