Domestic:
Hawaii recently experienced the worst flooding in over 24 years, the result of rains from a recent Kona low (a winter storm) falling on already saturated soil. Governor Josh Green has estimated that damages will be over $1 billion. Alerts alleged that the 120-year-old Wahiawa dam is nearing critical failure due to the heavy rains, prompting evacuation orders. 72 children and adults were airlifted from a spring break youth camp as a precautionary measure. So far, there have been no deaths and no one has been reported missing.
On Sunday, an Air Canada passenger plane collided with a fire truck at LaGuardia Airport in New York. Both the pilot and copilot of the plane were killed in the incident. The fire truck had been cleared to cross the tarmac, but just before the collision, an air traffic controller told the vehicle to stop. Over 40 passengers were taken to the hospital, with many released by Monday night. The firetruck occupants survived, with minor injuries. The cockpit recorder and flight data recorder have both been recovered and will be analyzed in the upcoming investigation.
International:
For the third time in a month, Cuba has experienced a nationwide power grid collapse. Blackouts have become more common over the past two years as the energy infrastructure continues to age. The Cuban government has also claimed that U.S. oil blockades have also impacted the grid, as Cuba’s thermal power plants rely on oil for smooth operation. Cuba only produces about 40% of the oil necessary to sustain its economy, relying heavily on imports. The removal of former Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, which halted shipments of petroleum from Venezuela to Cuba, has also been problematic for power structure operations. Daily blackouts are common, impacting Cubans’ ability to cook, work and receive medical treatment.
As the war Israel and the United States launched against Iran enters its fourth week, the Strait of Hormuz has become a crucial decision maker regarding further action. The Strait of Hormuz is a waterway that connects the Persian Gulf to the global oceans, allowing various commodities to be exported. Approximately a fifth of the world’s oil was transported through the strait, with disruption causing the price of crude oil to rise. During the conflict, Iran has attacked commercial ships passing through the region, leading many companies to cease operations through the strait. U.S. President Donald Trump has demanded Iran reopen the waterway or face a new wave of attacks aimed at Iran’s energy infrastructure. Iran has responded in a statement that any attacks on its energy facilities will prompt counterattacks on U.S. and Israeli energy assets in the Gulf region.
