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Hurricane Milton Leaves Over 3 Million Without Power in Florida, Causing Deaths and Widespread Flooding

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Hurricane Milton battered Florida’s west coast as a powerful Category 3 storm on Wednesday night, leaving more than 3.2 million homes and businesses without power and causing widespread flooding and an unknown number of deaths. The storm, which made landfall in Siesta Key, about 70 miles south of Tampa, has now moved into the Atlantic Ocean, but officials warn that dangers persist across the state.

The National Weather Service reported that St. Petersburg received over 16 inches of rain, prompting flash flood warnings for western and central Florida. Storm surge remains a significant concern along much of the coastline, with tropical storm warnings still in effect for the east-central coast.

Authorities in heavily impacted counties, including Hillsborough, Pinellas, Sarasota, and Lee, urged residents to stay home due to hazards such as downed power lines, fallen trees, blocked bridges, and extensive flooding. Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister emphasized the ongoing danger, stating, “We’ll let you know when it’s safe to come out.”

The storm’s powerful winds caused significant damage to infrastructure, including ripping apart the roof fabric of Tropicana Field, home of the Tampa Bay Rays, in St. Petersburg. Multiple construction cranes were also toppled by the fierce gusts.

In St. Petersburg, residents lost access to tap water due to a major water main break, compounding the challenges faced by those without electricity. Mayor Ken Welch had previously warned of prolonged power outages and potential sewer system shutdowns.

Plant City, just inland from Tampa, experienced “absolutely staggering” flooding, according to City Manager Bill McDaniel. Emergency crews rescued 35 people overnight, with McDaniel estimating the city received 13.5 inches of rain.

Before making landfall, Milton spawned multiple tornadoes across southern Florida. The Spanish Lakes Country Club near Fort Pierce was particularly hard-hit, with homes destroyed and fatalities reported, though exact numbers were not immediately available.

Hurricane Milton’s impact is compounded by the devastation wrought by Hurricane Helene just two weeks prior, which left at least 230 people dead across the South. Many coastal areas were still clearing debris from Helene when Milton struck.

Governor Ron DeSantis outlined the state’s response efforts, including the deployment of 9,000 National Guard members and over 50,000 utility workers. However, he grimly acknowledged, “Unfortunately, there will be fatalities. I don’t think there’s any way around that.”

As the storm moves away from Florida, officials continue to assess the damage and work to restore essential services. The full extent of Hurricane Milton’s impact is expected to become clearer in the coming days as emergency responders gain access to the hardest-hit areas.

Rafael Nadal Announces Retirement, Will End Career After Davis Cup Finals

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Rafael Nadal, the 22-time Grand Slam champion and one of tennis’s greatest players, announced on Thursday that he will retire from professional tennis after next month’s Davis Cup finals in Malaga, Spain. The 38-year-old Spaniard’s decision marks the end of an era in tennis, concluding a career that has spanned two decades and redefined excellence in the sport.

Nadal, known for his unrelenting physical style and dominance on clay courts, cited persistent injury problems as a key factor in his decision. “The reality is that it has been some difficult years, these last two especially. I don’t think I have been able to play without limitations,” Nadal stated in his announcement on social media.

The Spaniard’s career has been marked by unprecedented success, particularly at the French Open, where he claimed a record 14 championships. His dominance at Roland Garros is commemorated by a statue near the main entrance of the grounds. Nadal’s career Grand Slam tally includes four U.S. Open titles, two Wimbledon championships, and two Australian Open victories.

Nadal’s retirement follows that of Roger Federer in 2022, leaving Novak Djokovic as the last active member of tennis’s famed “Big Three.” The trio’s rivalry has been a defining feature of modern tennis, with Nadal playing Djokovic 60 times (trailing 31-29) and Federer 40 times (leading 24-16).

Throughout his career, Nadal has battled numerous injuries, showcasing remarkable resilience. His 2023 and 2024 seasons were particularly affected by hip and abdominal muscle problems, limiting his appearances on tour.

The choice of the Davis Cup finals for his farewell is significant for Nadal. “I am very excited that my last tournament will be the final of the Davis Cup and representing my country,” he said, referencing his early career success in the 2004 Davis Cup final in Seville.

As Nadal prepares for his final matches, the tennis world reflects on his immense impact on the sport. His retirement not only closes a chapter in his personal career but also marks the end of a golden era in men’s tennis, characterized by the dominance and rivalry of the Big Three.

Nadal’s legacy extends beyond his impressive statistics, encompassing his fierce competitiveness, sportsmanship, and the inspiration he has provided to countless fans and aspiring players worldwide.

Israeli Strike on Gaza School Shelter Kills at Least 27, Palestinian Officials Say

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An Israeli airstrike on a school sheltering displaced Palestinians in the Gaza Strip has killed at least 27 people, according to Palestinian medical officials. The attack on Thursday targeted a facility in the central Gaza town of Deir al-Balah, intensifying concerns about civilian casualties in the ongoing conflict.

The Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital, where victims were transported, reported that the strike killed 27 individuals, including one child and seven women. Hospital staff also noted that several others were wounded in the attack. An Associated Press reporter at the scene witnessed ambulances arriving at the hospital and counted bodies, many of which were severely dismembered.

Israel’s military stated it had conducted a precise strike targeting what it claimed was a militant command and control center inside the school. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have repeatedly targeted schools converted into shelters in Gaza, accusing militants of using these facilities as hideouts. However, the military did not provide immediate evidence to support its claim in this instance.

Witnesses, speaking on condition of anonymity due to security concerns, reported that the strike occurred during a meeting between school managers and representatives from an aid group. They claimed there were no Hamas police present in the room at the time of the attack.

This incident occurs against the backdrop of Israel’s continued military operations in Gaza, which have persisted even as attention has shifted to its war against Hezbollah in Lebanon and rising tensions with Iran. Earlier this week, Israel launched a large-scale air and ground operation against Hamas in northern Gaza.

The ongoing conflict, which began with Hamas’ October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, has resulted in catastrophic humanitarian consequences. According to local health authorities in Gaza, over 42,000 Palestinians have been killed, with women and children comprising more than half of the fatalities. The war has also displaced approximately 90% of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents, often multiple times.

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Africans Allege Deception in Russian Recruitment for Drone Production

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African workers recruited to Russia under the “Alabuga Start” program have come forward alleging they were deceived about the nature of their employment, finding themselves unexpectedly involved in the production of attack drones for use in the Ukraine conflict.

An Associated Press investigation has revealed that young women, primarily from countries such as Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, and Nigeria, were lured to Russia with promises of work-study opportunities in hospitality and catering. Instead, they found themselves in the Alabuga Special Economic Zone in Tatarstan, assembling Iranian-designed Shahed-136 drones.

“I don’t really know how to make drones,” confessed one African woman who had left a job in her home country for the Russian offer. She described the situation as “a trap,” expressing regret for her involvement in the production.

The workers, typically aged 18-22, reported challenging conditions at the Alabuga factory complex. They described long working hours, constant surveillance, and exposure to caustic chemicals without adequate protection. Many complained that their pay was less than initially promised and that they struggled with basic expenses.

The recruitment process involved misleading social media advertisements, computer games, and Russian vocabulary tests. Some workers only realized the true nature of their employment after arriving in Russia. The factory complex is heavily guarded, with workers’ movements restricted and communications monitored.

“The company is all about making drones. Nothing else,” said one woman who assembles airframes. She added, “I regret and I curse the day I started making all those things.”

The situation has raised concerns about potential violations of international laws on human trafficking and labor exploitation. Ravina Shamdasani, spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, noted that if the recruitment is fraudulent and aimed at exploitation, it could meet the criteria for trafficking.

Several African governments, including Uganda, have expressed concern about the program and are seeking more information about their citizens’ welfare in Russia. The Ugandan Minister for Gender, Labour and Social Development, Betty Amongi, told AP that her ministry had raised concerns with its embassy in Moscow about the recruitment effort.

As the program expands to recruit from Asia and Latin America, concerns grow about the ethical implications of exploiting vulnerable populations for military production.

apnews.com

Germany Aims to Strengthen Nations League Lead Against Bosnia-Herzegovina

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Germany travels to the Bilino Polje Stadium in Zenica on Friday to face Bosnia-Herzegovina in a pivotal UEFA Nations League Group A3 match. Julian Nagelsmann’s squad aims to solidify their position atop the group, while the hosts seek their first victory in this year’s tournament.

Germany leads Group A3 on goal difference after a dominant 5-0 victory over Hungary and a 2-2 draw with the Netherlands. However, Die Mannschaft’s away form remains a concern, with only four wins in their last 13 matches outside German territory.

The German squad faces several key absences, including Arsenal’s Kai Havertz and Bayern Munich’s Jamal Musiala. Nagelsmann has called up uncapped players Jamie Leweling and Jonathan Burkardt to bolster the roster. Notably, Germany will debut a new goalkeeper, as none of the three called up – Oliver Baumann, Alexander Nubel, and Janis Blaswich – have previously represented the national team.

Bosnia-Herzegovina, under coach Sergej Barbarez, sits third in the group with one point from two matches. The Dragons opened their campaign with a 5-2 loss to the Netherlands before securing a goalless draw against Hungary. Bosnia seeks to build on their three-game home winning streak in the Nations League.

Veteran striker Edin Dzeko, 38, continues to lead Bosnia’s attack. The Fenerbahce forward has scored nine goals in 13 games across all competitions this season. He’s likely to be partnered upfront by Stuttgart’s Ermedin Demirovic, while former Arsenal defender Sead Kolasinac anchors the backline.

Despite Bosnia’s home advantage, Germany enters the match as clear favorites. Nagelsmann’s side will look to exploit Bosnia’s recent defensive vulnerabilities, having conceded five goals in their opening Nations League fixture.

This match holds significant implications for both teams. A win would strengthen Germany’s position ahead of their crucial clash with the Netherlands, while Bosnia desperately needs points to avoid the threat of relegation to League B.

As the Nations League campaign approaches its midway point, this encounter in Zenica could prove pivotal in shaping the final standings of Group A3.

Diddy Accuses Federal Agents of Leaking Cassie Assault Video to Media

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Sean “Diddy” Combs and his legal team have made a startling accusation against federal authorities, claiming the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) orchestrated the leak of a 2016 surveillance video showing Combs allegedly assaulting his ex-girlfriend Cassie.

In legal documents obtained by TMZ, Combs’ attorneys allege misconduct in his criminal case, specifically accusing DHS, not the U.S. Attorney’s office, of leaking the video to CNN. The footage, from a Los Angeles hotel, reportedly shows Combs physically assaulting Cassie during their relationship.

According to the filing, on May 17, a CNN correspondent contacted Combs’ team seeking comment on a video they planned to publish, describing it as surveillance footage from the Intercontinental Hotel in Los Angeles from 2016. Combs’ lawyers claim they immediately informed prosecutors assigned to his case about CNN’s possession of the video.

The legal team argues that DHS is likely the source of the leak, citing frequent quotes from DHS agents in news stories about raids and investigations related to Combs. They also contend that Cassie was unlikely to be the source, as her lawsuit against Combs did not indicate she possessed the tape.

Combs’ attorneys suggest the timing of the leak, on what they describe as a slow news day due to a break in the Donald Trump trial, indicates a motive to damage Combs’ reputation without financial gain – a motive they attribute to federal agents.

The music mogul’s legal team is calling for an evidentiary hearing to determine appropriate relief in light of these allegations. They also criticize the federal raids on Combs’ homes in Los Angeles and Miami as excessively brutal, claiming agents handcuffed his children during the operations.

These accusations come amid ongoing legal troubles for Combs, including multiple lawsuits alleging sexual assault and misconduct. The case continues to draw significant media attention, highlighting issues of celebrity, power, and accountability in the entertainment industry.

As the legal battle unfolds, both the federal authorities and Combs’ team are likely to face increased scrutiny over their actions and allegations in this high-profile case.

Source: TMZ

Brazilian Man Arrested for Alleged Two-Decade Captivity, Rape of Wife, Mother-in-Law, Daughters

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Brazilian authorities have arrested a 52-year-old man accused of holding his wife and seven children captive in a dilapidated house for two decades, in a case drawing comparisons to the infamous Josef Fritzl case in Austria.

The shocking revelations emerged in the small town of Novo Oriente, Minas Gerais state, after one of the man’s daughters managed to escape and alert police. Following a month-long investigation, law enforcement stormed the property, uncovering a harrowing scene of long-term abuse and captivity.

Police spokesperson Herika Ribeiro Sena reported that investigators discovered three buried fetal remains in the garden, including one nearly full-term at eight months. The man’s 40-year-old wife claims she has endured this ordeal since she was 17, allegedly forced to undergo three abortions during her captivity.

Seven children, ranging in age from 3 to 22, were rescued from the property. The investigation revealed disturbing details, including allegations that the suspect had sexually abused not only his daughters but also his late mother-in-law. Authorities also found evidence that the man had drilled holes in walls to spy on his daughters as they dressed and bathed.

In a particularly horrifying incident, one daughter reportedly survived a failed abortion attempt when a midwife rescued her six-month-old fetus. Despite the child’s poor health, the father allegedly refused any medical assistance.

The suspect, whose name has not been released, is now in preventive custody facing charges of false imprisonment, rape, psychological violence, abortion, and concealing corpses. The victims have been relocated to a different state for their protection and to receive necessary support and care.

Sena added that the wife was only ever allowed to leave the house to receive benefits, often under the suspect’s close supervision. “None of the neighbors knew her, not even relatives had access to her,” Sena stated, highlighting the extreme isolation imposed on the family.

This case has shocked Brazil and drawn international attention, with many drawing parallels to the Josef Fritzl case in Austria, where a man held his daughter captive for 24 years. As the investigation continues, authorities are working to piece together the full extent of the alleged crimes and provide support to the survivors of this long-term abuse.

Russian National Football Team Faces Isolation During October International Break

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The Russian men’s national football team will not participate in any friendly matches during the October international break, the Russian Football Union (RFU) announced on Wednesday. This development underscores the ongoing challenges faced by Russian football due to international sanctions imposed following the country’s invasion of Ukraine.

The RFU had been in negotiations with Pakistan to arrange a friendly match this month. However, Pakistani media outlet Geo News reported that the two sides failed to reach an agreement. Russia reportedly offered to host the match on October 11 and cover all expenses, but Pakistan declined, citing insufficient preparation time. The Pakistani side suggested postponing the match to November.

In lieu of international matches, the RFU has organized an alternative event. On October 10, the national team will hold a training session and fan meet at Dynamo stadium in Moscow, inviting children from the Belgorod and Kursk regions bordering Ukraine to participate.

Russia continues to face significant isolation in international football. FIFA and UEFA sanctions bar the country from participating in official competitions, including World Cup qualifiers and European Championships. While Russia is permitted to play friendly matches, many nations have refused to face them, further limiting their options for international play.

Despite the current setback, the RFU expressed optimism about future engagements. Head coach Valery Karpin told reporters that the national team has finalized opponents for friendlies during the November international break, including a match against Syria.

themoscowtimes

World Champions Argentina Face Resurgent Venezuela in World Cup Qualifier

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World champions Argentina face a stern test against an ambitious Venezuela side in a crucial CONMEBOL World Cup qualifier at the Estadio Monumental on Thursday. The match pits the group leaders against a Venezuelan team making an unexpected push for their first-ever World Cup appearance.

Argentina, under coach Lionel Scaloni, sits atop the CONMEBOL standings with 18 points from eight matches. A victory would put them on the brink of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, despite recent losses to Colombia and Uruguay. The Albiceleste’s formidable record, conceding just seven goals in their last 19 qualifiers, underscores their dominance in South American football.

The big news for Argentina is the return of Lionel Messi, set to feature for the first time since their Copa America triumph. However, goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez will miss both October fixtures due to suspension, while Paulo Dybala, Nicolas Gonzalez, and Alejandro Garnacho have withdrawn due to injuries.

Venezuela, led by Argentine coach Fernando Batista, finds itself in unfamiliar territory, currently occupying the final automatic qualifying spot with 10 points. The hosts have proven resilient at home, remaining unbeaten in four qualifiers, but face their toughest challenge yet against Argentina.

La Vinotinto’s success has been built on a solid defense, exemplified by their recent 0-0 draw with Uruguay. However, their attack has struggled, scoring just once in their last four qualifiers. Veteran striker Salomon Rondon, with two goals in qualifying and 20 in 33 games for Mexican side Pachuca this year, will be crucial to their offensive efforts.

Venezuela will be without defender Teo Quintero, denying him an international debut, while Jhon Chancellor remains sidelined. These absences may see Batista field the same back four that held Uruguay last month.

Despite Venezuela’s home advantage, Argentina’s quality and experience make them clear favorites. The visitors have won three of their four away games in qualifying and boast a strong head-to-head record against Venezuela, going unbeaten in their last seven competitive meetings.

As South American qualifying approaches its halfway point, this match could prove pivotal for both teams. Argentina aims to cement their position atop the group, while Venezuela seeks to maintain their surprising push for a historic World Cup qualification.

Italy Hosts Belgium in Crucial UEFA Nations League Clash in Rome

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Italy and Belgium are set to clash in a high-stakes UEFA Nations League encounter at Rome’s Stadio Olimpico on Thursday evening. The match pits Group A2 leaders Italy against a Belgian side looking to bounce back from recent setbacks.

Italy, under new manager Luciano Spalletti, has made an impressive start to their Nations League campaign, securing maximum points from their first two matches. The Azzurri stunned France with a 3-1 victory in Paris before defeating Israel, establishing themselves as early frontrunners in the group.

Spalletti’s squad reflects his focus on rejuvenating the national team, with five uncapped players receiving call-ups, including Daniel Maldini, son of Italian legend Paolo Maldini. However, Italy will be without Federico Chiesa due to fitness concerns, while Gianluca Scamacca and Giorgio Scalvini are sidelined with long-term injuries.

The Italian attack is likely to feature Giacomo Raspadori partnering Mateo Retegui in Spalletti’s preferred 3-5-2 formation. Midfielder Nicolo Barella returns to the squad after missing September’s fixtures due to sinus surgery.

Belgium, meanwhile, arrives in Rome facing internal turmoil. Manager Domenico Tedesco, born in Calabria but raised in Germany, must navigate the absence of key players as he returns to his birthplace. Star striker Romelu Lukaku has taken a national team sabbatical until 2025, while injured captain Kevin De Bruyne and goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois are unavailable.

The Red Devils are still reeling from a 2-0 defeat to France in September, which prompted harsh criticism from De Bruyne about the team’s fighting spirit. Tedesco’s man-management skills have come under scrutiny as he attempts to balance established stars with emerging talents.

In Lukaku’s absence, Lois Openda is expected to lead the Belgian attack, supported by Arsenal’s Leandro Trossard, who returns to the squad after being omitted in September. Tedesco has also called up Italy-based players Charles De Ketelaere and Samuel Mbangula, with the latter having recently made his Serie A debut for Juventus.

This match carries significant implications for both teams’ Nations League campaigns. Italy aims to solidify their position atop Group A2 and take a step closer to qualifying for the new quarter-final stage. For Belgium, a positive result is crucial to revive their campaign and ease pressure on Tedesco’s leadership.

As the teams prepare to face off in the historic Stadio Olimpico, all eyes will be on how Italy’s revamped squad performs against a Belgian side in transition, setting the stage for a compelling UEFA Nations League encounter.

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