| Source: KOF Economic Institute Since the new U.S. administration took office, geopolitical risks and international trade conflicts have significantly intensified. KOF has examined the risks and possible consequences for the Swiss economy. The findings show: trade conflicts can lead to declines in Swiss gross domestic product (GDP), ranging from fractions of a percent to over one percent per year on a sustained basis. In the case of severe and prolonged trade conflicts, the economy could fall into a recession. In their KOF Working Paper “Resilience of Small Open Economies to Geopolitical Shocks: The Case of Switzerland,” Hans Gersbach, Paul Maxence Maunoir, and Kieran James Walsh examine various scenarios concerning the risks to the Swiss economy arising from trade conflicts and its consequences. “The Swiss economy is both resilient and vulnerable,” summarizes Hans Gersbach, Co-Director of KOF Swiss Economic Institute, reflecting on the study’s findings. Although the Swiss economy is relatively resilient to the effects of geopolitical shocks, it is also quite vulnerable in the event of intense and prolonged trade conflicts. In such cases, permanent losses of around one percent of GDP per year are possible. In some scenarios, additional effects (so-called “second-layer” effects) can further amplify these losses. If severe trade conflicts were to arise between the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, as well as between the U.S. and Europe, there would be a clear risk of recession for several countries, including Switzerland. Two-Stage Process for Analysis To examine the resilience of the Swiss economy, the authors employed a two-step approach. The impact of geopolitical disruptions on international trade in goods and services for Switzerland and other countries is analyzed using the new “KOF Trade Model”. This model is a modern quantitative general equilibrium model of global trade networks. It captures the effects of relative price and demand changes resulting from tariffs, how companies respond in their production of goods and services, and feedback effects on all market participants. However, a number of further effects—such as downward amplification, structural changes in investment activity, further nominal exchange rate fluctuations, or product-specific supply chain disruptions—are not included in the model. Depending on the scenario, these second-layer effects may have minor, significant, or major implications. They must therefore be considered for a comprehensive assessment. In (Almost) All Scenarios, the Economy Suffers Losses The Swiss economy is particularly vulnerable if the U.S. administration imposes tariffs on imports from all countries, including key sectors of the Swiss economy. These sectors would include the pharmaceutical industry, mechanical engineering, and precision instruments for instance. If this scenario were to occur, the Swiss economy would be the most affected of all countries on the European mainland. If the European Union (EU) responded to broad U.S. import tariffs with comprehensive countermeasures, also against Switzerland, significant losses could arise—potentially exceeding 1% of GDP. However, in both scenarios, the economies of the U.S. and major countries in the EU would suffer similarly or even more. Therefore, such comprehensive tariff wars are difficult for these countries to sustain in the long term and are not considered the most likely scenario. Should critical raw materials or computer chips become unavailable due to geopolitical tensions, or if there were a rapid policy-driven decoupling between a Western sphere (including Switzerland) and a sphere centered around China, major disruptions would be expected. Such a decoupling could even lead to a global economic crisis. Conclusion Our results provide a foundation for discussion on how the economic resilience of Switzerland can be strengthened and what role the state should play in this process. Key policy levers include free trade agreements to promote diversification and risk mitigation, conditions to ensure supply security, and the government’s contribution to a resilient innovation system. |
Category: Americas
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MIL-OSI Submissions: Geopolitical Risks and Trade Conflicts: How Resilient is the Swiss Economy? – KOF
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MIL-OSI USA: SPC Severe Thunderstorm Watch 83
Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Note: The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
SEL3URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 83
NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
135 AM CDT Mon Mar 31 2025The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a
* Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
Far Southern Arkansas
Louisiana
Central Mississippi
Far East Texas* Effective this Monday morning from 135 AM until 800 AM CDT.
* Primary threats include…
Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph likely
Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 2
inches in diameter possible
A tornado or two possibleSUMMARY…Thunderstorms will continue to move east-northeastward
over the next several hours early this morning, while posing a
threat for scattered damaging winds up to 60-70 mph and large hail
around 1-2 inches in diameter. A tornado or two may also occur.The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 60
statute miles north and south of a line from 45 miles south of
Columbus MS to 75 miles west of Fort Polk LA. For a complete
depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline update
(WOUS64 KWNS WOU3).PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
REMEMBER…A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are
favorable for severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area.
Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening
weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible
warnings. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce
tornadoes.&&
OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 77…WW 78…WW 79…WW
80…WW 81…WW 82…AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
2 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 60 knots. A
few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean storm motion vector
26035.…Gleason
SEL3
URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 83
NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
135 AM CDT Mon Mar 31 2025The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a
* Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
Far Southern Arkansas
Louisiana
Central Mississippi
Far East Texas* Effective this Monday morning from 135 AM until 800 AM CDT.
* Primary threats include…
Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph likely
Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 2
inches in diameter possible
A tornado or two possibleSUMMARY…Thunderstorms will continue to move east-northeastward
over the next several hours early this morning, while posing a
threat for scattered damaging winds up to 60-70 mph and large hail
around 1-2 inches in diameter. A tornado or two may also occur.The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 60
statute miles north and south of a line from 45 miles south of
Columbus MS to 75 miles west of Fort Polk LA. For a complete
depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline update
(WOUS64 KWNS WOU3).PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
REMEMBER…A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are
favorable for severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area.
Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening
weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible
warnings. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce
tornadoes.&&
OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 77…WW 78…WW 79…WW
80…WW 81…WW 82…AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
2 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 60 knots. A
few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean storm motion vector
26035.…Gleason
Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
SAW3
WW 83 SEVERE TSTM AR LA MS TX 310635Z – 311300Z
AXIS..60 STATUTE MILES NORTH AND SOUTH OF LINE..
45S CBM/COLUMBUS MS/ – 75W POE/FORT POLK LA/
..AVIATION COORDS.. 50NM N/S /30S IGB – 16ESE LFK/
HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..2 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..60 KNOTS.
MAX TOPS TO 500. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 26035.LAT…LON 32118845 30189445 31919445 33848845
THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
FOR WOU3.Watch 83 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.
Note: Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes
Probability of 2 or more tornadoes
Low (20%)
Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes
Low (10%)
Wind
Probability of 10 or more severe wind events
Mod (60%)
Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots
Low (20%)
Hail
Probability of 10 or more severe hail events
Mod (40%)
Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches
Mod (30%)
Combined Severe Hail/Wind
Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events
High (80%)
For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.
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MIL-Evening Report: Hosting the UN climate summit is far from ‘madness’ – here’s how Australia stands to benefit
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Wesley Morgan, Research Associate, Institute for Climate Risk and Response, UNSW Sydney
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton would withdraw Australia’s bid to co-host next year’s global climate summit if the Coalition wins the federal election.
Australia has lobbied hard for the right to host the talks, known as COP31, in conjunction with Pacific nations. Australia has emerged as a leading contender, and has the backing of most countries in its United Nations grouping, including the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Canada and New Zealand.
However, Dutton on Sunday described the idea of hosting the UN climate conference as “not something we are supporting — it is madness”. He also falsely claimed it would cost Australia “tens of billions” of dollars to host the event.
Australia would reap big benefits by hosting the high-profile global talks. It would likely attract considerable investment in renewables and clean energy export industries, and strengthen Australia’s national security during a time of increasing geo-strategic competition in the Pacific. To pull out now would be a costly move.
Decison deferred until June
The decision on who will host COP31 in 2026 was expected at last year’s summit in Azerbaijan. But it was deferred until June this year – after Australia’s next federal election.
Hosting rights are shared between five UN country groupings on a rotational basis. The final decision is made by consensus.
Australia’s bid to host with Pacific nations has considerable support. But Turkey, the only other country in the running to host COP31, has so far resisted lobbying efforts to persuade it to drop out.
An economic boost for Australia
Hosting the UN climate talks is a massive economic opportunity for Australia.
COP31 would be one of the biggest diplomatic summits Australia has ever hosted. Tens of thousands of people could be expected for a fortnight of negotiations, with satellite events held across the nation and the Pacific.
Adelaide is in the box seat to play host. The South Australian government estimated hosting the UN talks could generate more than A$500 million for the state. But economic benefits would be much wider, and longer-lasting, than tourism receipts from those attending. The talks are a chance to attract investment for Australia’s energy transition and for clean energy industries of the future, including critical minerals and green iron.
The UK government’s assessment of the value of hosting the UN climate summit in Glasgow in 2021 found the net economic benefit was double that spent – around A$1 billion. That includes benefits from trade deals and foreign investment. With abundant critical minerals, and excellent wind and solar resources, Australia has even more to gain.
Hosting the world’s largest climate summit is a chance to attract the investment needed to replace ageing and unreliable coal-fired power stations. According to the Clean Energy Investor Group, which represents the capital behind large-scale renewables, more than 70% of the investment in clean energy comes from international sources.
Dutton says he plans to replace coal with nuclear power (and to rely on gas until nuclear plants are built decades from now). The Coalition’s nuclear plan would require hundreds of billions of dollars of taxpayer support.
Securing our place in the Pacific
Working with Pacific nations to address climate change is key to Australian national security.
Australia aims to be the security partner of choice for Pacific island countries. And Pacific island countries are crystal clear: climate change is their “single greatest threat”.
In 2022, Solomon Islands signed a security deal with China, which raised the prospect of a potential Chinese naval base in Australia’s maritime approaches. Foreign Minister Penny Wong – who was in opposition at the time – described it as the worst foreign policy blunder in the Pacific since the end of WWII.
The Albanese government has looked to cement Australia’s place in the Pacific by working with island nations to address climate change. In July 2022, Albanese joined Pacific leaders to declare a Pacific climate emergency and launched bid to co-host a UN climate summit with Pacific nations. In 2023, Australia signed a climate migration deal with Tuvalu that also prevents Tuvalu from pursuing a security deal with China.
Pacific leaders have welcomed Australia’s plans to host the UN climate talks and have agreed to work together to advocate for the joint bid. Walking away now could do real damage to Australian strategy in the region.
Embracing our clean energy future
Hosting COP31 is a chance to set up Australia’s economy of tomorrow, signalling the shift from fossil fuel heavyweight to clean energy superpower.
Australia is leading the clean energy transition. This is a story to tell the world. One in three households have rooftop solar. Already 40% of the main national power grid is powered by wind, solar and storage. We are on track for 80% renewables by 2030.
South Australia is moving even faster, set for 100% clean electricity by 2027. Hosting COP31 in the state is also a chance to showcase clean energy export industries, especially plans to produce green iron and green steel at the Whyalla steelworks.
Australia is the world’s largest exporter of raw iron ore, but is well positioned to export more-valuable, and lower-polluting, green iron to major economies in our region. The potential export value of green iron is estimated to be $295 billion a year, or three times the current value of iron ore exports.
More broadly, our clean energy exports – including green metals, green fertilisers and green fuels – could be worth six to eight times more than our fossil fuel exports.
Walking away from the chance to host the world and showcase our clean energy future would be costly indeed.
Wesley Morgan is a fellow with the Climate Council of Australia
– ref. Hosting the UN climate summit is far from ‘madness’ – here’s how Australia stands to benefit – https://theconversation.com/hosting-the-un-climate-summit-is-far-from-madness-heres-how-australia-stands-to-benefit-253423
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MIL-Evening Report: Dutton says it would cost too much to host UN climate summit, but pulling out would cost Australia even more
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Wesley Morgan, Research Associate, Institute for Climate Risk and Response, UNSW Sydney
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton would withdraw Australia’s bid to co-host next year’s global climate summit if the Coalition wins the federal election.
Australia has lobbied hard for the right to host the talks, known as COP31, in conjunction with Pacific nations. Australia has emerged as a leading contender, and has the backing of most countries in its United Nations grouping, including the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Canada and New Zealand.
However, Dutton on Sunday described the idea of hosting the UN climate conference as “not something we are supporting — it is madness”. He also falsely claimed it would cost Australia “tens of billions” of dollars to host the event.
Australia would reap big benefits by hosting the high-profile global talks. It would likely attract considerable investment in renewables and clean energy export industries, and strengthen Australia’s national security during a time of increasing geo-strategic competition in the Pacific. To pull out now would be a costly move.
Decison deferred until June
The decision on who will host COP31 in 2026 was expected at last year’s summit in Azerbaijan. But it was deferred until June this year – after Australia’s next federal election.
Hosting rights are shared between five UN country groupings on a rotational basis. The final decision is made by consensus.
Australia’s bid to host with Pacific nations has considerable support. But Turkey, the only other country in the running to host COP31, has so far resisted lobbying efforts to persuade it to drop out.
An economic boost for Australia
Hosting the UN climate talks is a massive economic opportunity for Australia.
COP31 would be one of the biggest diplomatic summits Australia has ever hosted. Tens of thousands of people could be expected for a fortnight of negotiations, with satellite events held across the nation and the Pacific.
Adelaide is in the box seat to play host. The South Australian government estimated hosting the UN talks could generate more than A$500 million for the state. But economic benefits would be much wider, and longer-lasting, than tourism receipts from those attending. The talks are a chance to attract investment for Australia’s energy transition and for clean energy industries of the future, including critical minerals and green iron.
The UK government’s assessment of the value of hosting the UN climate summit in Glasgow in 2021 found the net economic benefit was double that spent – around A$1 billion. That includes benefits from trade deals and foreign investment. With abundant critical minerals, and excellent wind and solar resources, Australia has even more to gain.
Hosting the world’s largest climate summit is a chance to attract the investment needed to replace ageing and unreliable coal-fired power stations. According to the Clean Energy Investor Group, which represents the capital behind large-scale renewables, more than 70% of the investment in clean energy comes from international sources.
Dutton says he plans to replace coal with nuclear power (and to rely on gas until nuclear plants are built decades from now). The Coalition’s nuclear plan would require hundreds of billions of dollars of taxpayer support.
Securing our place in the Pacific
Working with Pacific nations to address climate change is key to Australian national security.
Australia aims to be the security partner of choice for Pacific island countries. And Pacific island countries are crystal clear: climate change is their “single greatest threat”.
In 2022, Solomon Islands signed a security deal with China, which raised the prospect of a potential Chinese naval base in Australia’s maritime approaches. Foreign Minister Penny Wong – who was in opposition at the time – described it as the worst foreign policy blunder in the Pacific since the end of WWII.
The Albanese government has looked to cement Australia’s place in the Pacific by working with island nations to address climate change. In July 2022, Albanese joined Pacific leaders to declare a Pacific climate emergency and launched bid to co-host a UN climate summit with Pacific nations. In 2023, Australia signed a climate migration deal with Tuvalu that also prevents Tuvalu from pursuing a security deal with China.
Pacific leaders have welcomed Australia’s plans to host the UN climate talks and have agreed to work together to advocate for the joint bid. Walking away now could do real damage to Australian strategy in the region.
Embracing our clean energy future
Hosting COP31 is a chance to set up Australia’s economy of tomorrow, signalling the shift from fossil fuel heavyweight to clean energy superpower.
Australia is leading the clean energy transition. This is a story to tell the world. One in three households have rooftop solar. Already 40% of the main national power grid is powered by wind, solar and storage. We are on track for 80% renewables by 2030.
South Australia is moving even faster, set for 100% clean electricity by 2027. Hosting COP31 in the state is also a chance to showcase clean energy export industries, especially plans to produce green iron and green steel at the Whyalla steelworks.
Australia is the world’s largest exporter of raw iron ore, but is well positioned to export more-valuable, and lower-polluting, green iron to major economies in our region. The potential export value of green iron is estimated to be $295 billion a year, or three times the current value of iron ore exports.
More broadly, our clean energy exports – including green metals, green fertilisers and green fuels – could be worth six to eight times more than our fossil fuel exports.
Walking away from the chance to host the world and showcase our clean energy future would be costly indeed.
Wesley Morgan is a fellow with the Climate Council of Australia
– ref. Dutton says it would cost too much to host UN climate summit, but pulling out would cost Australia even more – https://theconversation.com/dutton-says-it-would-cost-too-much-to-host-un-climate-summit-but-pulling-out-would-cost-australia-even-more-253423
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MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: NITI Aayog organises National Workshop on “Internationalisation of Higher Education in India: Challenges, Best Practices, and Policy Interventions” at IIT Madras, Chennai on March 29, 2025
Source: Government of India
Posted On: 30 MAR 2025 7:16PM by PIB Delhi
A one-day National Workshop on ‘Internationalisation of Higher Education in India’, was organised by the Education Division of NITI Aayog, as a part of the NITI–State workshop series, an initiative under the State Support Mission, and in collaboration with its knowledge partners, IIT Madras, Association of Indian Universities (AIU), and Acumen at the IIT Madras campus in Chennai on Saturday, 29th March 2025.
The workshop brought together officers from the Centre, State and UT Governments, Institutions of National Importance, Central Universities, State Public Universities, Private Universities, Deemed Universities, International Universities, and representatives from several countries to deliberate on challenges, best practices and policy interventions for implementing internationalisation initiatives in Indian higher education at the systemic and institutional levels as envisioned in the National Education Policy 2020.
Dr. Vinod Kumar Paul, Hon’ble Member (Education), NITI Aayog delivered the Keynote Address and the Concluding Address and chaired the entire workshop’s proceedings. Prof. Kamakoti Veezhinathan, Director, IIT Madras, delivered the Inaugural Address. Dr. Sonia Pant, Programme Director (Education), NITI Aayog welcomed the 140-strong audience. Prof. Raghunathan Rengaswamy, Dean – Global Engagement, IIT Madras, Dr. (Mrs.) Pankaj Mittal, Secretary General, Association of Indian Universities, and Shri Adrian Mutton, Executive Chairman, Acumen addressed the gathering on behalf of the knowledge partners’ consortium.
The workshop featured 40 speakers across 4 technical sessions on: (i) Internationalisation of Higher Education in India (in retrospect and future prospects), (ii) Academic Mobility for Learning and Research, (iii) Internationalisation of Curricula & Programmes, and (iv) Expanding Global Presence of Indian universities through Offshore Campuses and beyond. Special case studies on successes of Indian and international universities were presented including Indian universities setting up overseas campuses and international universities establishing campuses in India including at the GIFT City. Several country case studies including those of Australia, France, New Zealand, UK, USA, among others were also presented at the workshop.
As discussions proceeded, participants emphasized actionable strategies such as enhancing infrastructure, streamlining regulations, and promoting India as a destination for academic collaboration, research, and learning on a global scale.
This workshop marked a significant milestone in India’s journey towards internationalisation of higher education. The insights generated will feed into the ongoing NITI policy research study that aims to position Indian higher education institutions at the forefront of global academic excellence, ensuring India-centric internationalisation, and creating world class and world ready talent to enable India to play an influential role as a knowledge economy and achieve its vision of becoming a Viksit Bharat by 2047.
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MJPS/SR
(Release ID: 2116875) Visitor Counter : 55
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MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: English rendering of PM’s address in the 120th Episode of ‘Mann ki Baat’ on 30.03.2025
Source: Government of India
Posted On: 30 MAR 2025 11:41AM by PIB Delhi
My dear countrymen, Namaskar. Today, on a very auspicious day, I have got the opportunity to talk to you through ‘Mann Ki Baat’. Today is the Pratipada Tithi of the Shukla Paksha of the Chaitra month. Chaitra Navratri is beginning from today. The Indian New Year is also commencing from this day. This is also the start of Vikram Samvat 2082. At the moment, I have many of your letters in front of me. Some are from Bihar, some from Bengal, some from Tamil Nadu & some from Gujarat. In these, people have expressed their inner most thoughts in a very interesting way. Many letters also comprise good wishes and congratulatory messages. But today I feel like sharing some messages with you –
Prime Minister (Sarvarigu Yugadi Habbadaa Shubhaashegadu) – Happy Ugadi festival to all
The next message is –
Prime Minister (Andariki Ugadi Shubhaakaankshalu) – Happy Ugadi festival to all
Now in another letter it is written –
Prime Minister (Saunsaar Paadvyaachi Parbi) – Greetings on Saunsaar Padwa
Inscribed in the next message is –
Prime Minister (Gudipaadwya Nimitta Haardik Shubhechhaa) – Heartiest greetings on the occasion of Gudi Padwa
One of our friends has written –
Prime Minister (Illaavarakkum Vishu Aashamshagal) – Happy Vishu festival to all
Another message is –
Prime Minister (Inniy Puttaand Nalla Vaazhathukkal) – Happy New Year to all
Friends, you must have understood that the messages have been sent in different languages. But do you know the reason behind this? This exactly is the special thing that I want to share with you today. New Year is starting today and during the next few days in different states of our country. And all these messages are of greetings for New Year and various festivals. That is why people have sent me greetings in different languages.
Friends, today the festival of Ugadi is being celebrated with great fervour in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana. Today itself, Gudi Padwa is being celebrated in Maharashtra. In our country full of diversity, during the next few days, in different states, ‘Rongali Bihu’ will be celebrated in Assam, ‘Poila Boishakh’ in Bengal, ‘Navreh’ in Kashmir. Similarly, between 13th and 15th April, there will be joyous celebration of festivals in different parts of the country. There is an atmosphere of excitement about this too and the festival of Eid is also there. That means this whole month is of festivals; of festivities. I extend my greetings to the people of the country on these festivals. These festivals of ours may be in different regions, but they show how unity is woven into the diversity of India. We have to keep reinforcing this spirit of unity, on our way ahead.
Friends, at the advent of exams, I have a discussion, ‘Pariksha Pe Charcha’, with young friends. Now the exams are over. In many schools, preparations are on to resume the classes. After this, summer vacations are also round the corner. Children eagerly await this time of the year. I am reminded of my childhood days when my friends and I used to play one prank or the other all day long. But simultaneously, we used to do something constructive and learn too. Summer days are long and children have a lot to do during the time. This is the time to inculcate a new hobby as well as hone your skills. Today, there is no dearth of platforms for children where they can learn a lot.
For example, if an organization is running a technology camp, children can learn about open-source software along with developing apps. Be it environment, be it theatre or be it leadership, courses on various subjects are being conducted… they can join them as well. There are many schools that teach speech or drama, which are very useful for children. Apart from all this, you also have the opportunity to join volunteer activities and service endeavours going on at many places during these holidays. I specially urge you regarding such programs… If any organisation, school or social institution or science centre is organising such summer activities, do share it with #MyHolidays. This will help children and their parents from across the country to get information about these easily.
My young friends, today I would also like to discuss with you the special calendar of MY-Bharat, which has been prepared for this summer vacation. At the moment, copy of this calendar is kept in front of me. I want to share some unique efforts through this calendar. For example, in the study tour of MY-Bharat, you can know how our ‘Jan Aushadhi Kendras’ function. You can undergo a unique experience in the border villages by becoming a part of the vibrant village campaign. Along with this, you can definitely become a part of the cultural and sports activities there. At the same time, by participating in the padyatra on Ambedkar Jayanti, you can also spread awareness about the values of the Constitution.
I specially urge children and their parents as well to share their holiday experiences with #HolidayMemories. I will try to include your experiences in the upcoming ‘Mann Ki Baat’.
My dear countrymen, as soon as the summer season approaches, preparations for saving water begin in many cities and villages. In many states, works related to water harvesting and water conservation have gained new momentum. The Ministry of Jal Shakti and numerous NGOs are working in that direction. Thousands of artificial ponds, check dams, borewell recharge and community soak pits are being constructed in the country. Like every year, this time too, preparations have been made on a war footing for the ‘catch the rain’ campaign. This campaign too, is not of the government… but of the society, of the Janata-Janaardan; the people. Jal Sanchay-Jan Bhagidari Abhiyan is also being run to connect more and more people with water conservation. The endeavour is to safely pass on the natural resources that we have, to the next generation.
Friends, by conserving raindrops, we can save a lot of water from getting wasted. Over the last few years, under this campaign, unprecedented tasks related to water conservation have been undertaken in many parts of the country. I will give you an interesting figure. During the last 7-8 years, over 11 billion cubic metres of water has been conserved through newly built tanks, ponds and other water recharge structures. You must now be wondering how much 11 billion cubic metres of water is?
Friends, you must have seen the pictures of the water that gets accumulated in the Bhakra Nangal dam. This water forms the Govind Sagar lake. The length of this lake is more than 90 kilometres. Even in this lake, not more than 9-10 billion cubic metres of water can be conserved. Only 9-10 billion cubic metres! And the countrymen, through their tiny efforts, have managed to conserve 11 billion cubic meters of water in different parts of the country – isn’t that a great effort!
Friends, in this direction, the people of Gadag district of Karnataka have also set an example. A few years ago, the lakes of two villages dried up completely. There came a time when there was no water left even for the animals to drink. Gradually, the lake got covered with weeds and bushes. But some villagers decided to revive the lake and started working on it. And as they say, ‘where there is a will there is a way’. Noticing the efforts of the villagers, the social organizations in the vicinity also joined them. All of them, together cleaned the garbage and mud and after some time the lake area became completely clean. Now people are waiting for the rainy season. Indeed, this is a great example of the ‘catch the rain’ campaign. Friends, you can also join such efforts at the community level. You must make a plan from now on to take this mass movement forward, and you have to remember one more thing. If possible, keep cold water in an earthen pot in front of your house during summers. Keep water for birds on the roof of the house or even in the verandah. See how blessed you will feel after doing this punya karma (pious deed).
Friends, in ‘Mann Ki Baat’ we will now talk about adding wings to your zeal… About displaying passion despite challenges. In the Khelo India Para Games that concluded a few days ago, the players surprised everyone with their dedication and talent, once again. This time more players participated in these games than earlier. This shows how popular Para Sports is becoming. I congratulate all the players participating in the Khelo India Para Games for their sterling efforts. My best wishes for the players of Haryana, Tamil Nadu and UP for securing the first, second and third positions, respectively. During these games, our divyang players also set 18 national records. Out of which 12 were in the name of our women players. Arm wrestler Joby Mathew who won a Gold Medal in this year’s Khelo India Para Games has written a letter to me. I would like to read out an excerpt of his letter. He has written-
“Winning a medal is very special, but our struggle is not limited to just standing on the podium. We fight a battle every day. Life tests us in many ways… very few people understand our struggle. Despite this, we move forward with courage. We work towards fulfilling our dreams. We believe that we are no less than anyone else.”
Great! Joby Mathew, you have written an amazing, wonderful letter. I thank you for this letter. I want to tell Joby Mathew and all our Divyang friends that your efforts are a great inspiration for us.
Friends, another grand event in Delhi has inspired people a lot; filled them with enthusiasm. Fit India Carnival was organized for the first time as an innovative idea. About 25 thousand people from different fields participated in it. All of them had the same goal – to stay fit and spread awareness about fitness. People involved in this event got information related to their health as well as nutrition. I urge you to organize such carnivals in your area as well. MY-Bharat can be of great help to you in this initiative.
Friends, our indigenous games are now becoming a part of popular culture. You all must be knowing the famous rapper Hanumankind. His new song “Run It Up” is becoming quite famous these days. Our traditional Martial Arts like Kalaripayattu, Gatka and Thang-Ta have been included in it. I congratulate Hanumankind that due to his efforts people of the world are getting to know about our traditional Martial Arts.
My dear countrymen, every month I get a lot of messages from you on MyGov and NaMo App. Many messages touch my heart, while others fill me with pride. Many a time, these messages provide unique information about our culture and traditions. This time, I want to share with you the message that caught my attention.
Atharva Kapoor from Varanasi, Aaryash Leekha and Atrey Maan from Mumbai have written about their feelings on my recent visit to Mauritius. They have written that they greatly enjoyed the performance of “Geet Gawai” during this visit. I have felt similar sentiments in many letters received from eastern Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. What I felt during the wonderful performance of Geet Gawai in Mauritius was truly amazing.
Friends, when we stay connected to our roots, no matter how big the storm, it cannot uproot us. Just imagine, about 200 years ago, many people from India went to Mauritius as indentured labourers. Nobody knew what would happen next. But with the passage of time, they settled there. They carved a niche identity for themselves in Mauritius. They preserved their heritage and remained connected to their roots. Mauritius is not the only such example. Last year when I went to Guyana, the Chowtaal performance there impressed me a lot.
Friends, let me now play an audio for you.
#(Clip)#
You must be wondering that this must be about some part of our country. But you will be surprised to know that it is related to Fiji. This is the very popular ‘Phagwa Chowtaal’ of Fiji. This song and music fills everyone with fervour. Let me play another audio for you.
#(Clip)#
This audio is the ‘Chowtaal’ of Suriname. The countrymen watching this program on TV can see the President of Suriname and my friend Chan Santokhi Ji enjoying it. This tradition of coming together & singing is also very popular in Trinidad and Tobago. In all these countries, people read Ramayan a lot. Phagwa is very popular here and all Indian festivals are celebrated with full enthusiasm. Many of their songs are in Bhojpuri, Awadhi or mixed language; at times Braj and Maithili are also used. All those who preserve our traditions in these countries deserve appreciation.
Friends, there are many such organizations in the world, which have been working to conserve Indian culture for years. One such organization is – ‘Singapore Indian Fine Arts Society’. This organization, engaged in preserving Indian dance, music and culture, has completed its glorious 75 years. In the program related to this occasion, the President of Singapore, Shriman Tharman Shanmugaratnam Ji was the Guest of Honour. He praised the efforts of this organization. I extend my best wishes to this team.
Friends, in ‘Mann Ki Baat’, along with the achievements of the countrymen, we often raise social issues as well. Many a time, challenges are also discussed. This time in ‘Mann Ki Baat’, I want to talk about a challenge that is directly related to all of us. This challenge is of ‘textile waste’. You must be wondering, what is this new problem of textile waste?
Actually, textile waste has become a major cause of worry for the whole world. Nowadays, the trend of getting rid of old clothes as soon as possible and buying new ones is increasing all over the world. Have you ever thought what happens to the old clothes that you stop wearing? This becomes textile waste. A lot of global research is being done on this subject. It has come to light in a research that only less than one percent of textile waste is recycled into new clothes… less than even one percent. India is the third country in the world where the maximum textile waste is generated. This means that we also face a huge challenge. But I am happy that many commendable efforts are being undertaken in our country to deal with this challenge. Many Indian start-ups have started working on textile recovery facilities.
There are many such teams that are also working for the empowerment of our ragpicker brothers and sisters. Many young friends are involved in the efforts towards sustainable fashion. They recycle old clothes and footwear and distribute them to the needy. Many items like decorative pieces, handbags, stationery and toys are being made from textile waste. Many organizations are engaged in popularizing the ‘circular fashion brands’ these days. New rental platforms are also coming up, where designer clothes are available on rent. Some organizations collect old clothes, make them reusable and distribute them to the poor.
Friends, some cities are also carving a new identity for themselves in dealing with textile waste. Panipat in Haryana is emerging as a global hub for textile recycling. Bengaluru is also creating a distinct identity for itself with innovative tech solutions. More than half of the textile waste is collected here, which is an example for our other cities as well. Similarly, Tirupur in Tamil Nadu is engaged in textile waste management through wastewater treatment and renewable energy.
My dear countrymen, today along with fitness, count is also playing a big role. Count of the number of steps taken in a day, count of the number of calories eaten in a day, count of the number of calories burnt… amidst all these counts, another countdown is about to begin. The countdown to the International Yoga Day. Now less than 100 days are left for Yoga Day. If you have not yet included yoga in your life, do it now… it is not too late yet. The first International Yoga Day was celebrated 10 years ago on the 21st of June, 2015. Now this day has taken the shape of a grand festival of yoga. This is such a priceless gift from India to humanity, which is going to be very useful for future generation. The theme of Yoga Day 2025 has been kept as ‘Yoga for One Earth One Health’. That is, we wish to make the whole world healthy through yoga.
Friends, it is a matter of pride for all of us that today the curiosity about our yoga and traditional medicine is rising, all over the world. A large number of youths are adopting yoga and Ayurveda as an excellent medium for wellness.
For example, there is a South American country, Chile. Ayurveda is rapidly becoming popular there. Last year, during my visit to Brazil, I met the President of Chile. We had a lot of discussions about the popularity of Ayurveda. I have come to know about a team named ‘Somos India’. In Spanish, it means – ‘We are India’. This team has been promoting yoga and Ayurveda for almost a decade. Their focus is on treatment as well as educational programmes. They are also getting information related to Yog and Ayurveda translated into the Spanish language. If we talk about last year alone, about 9 thousand people participated in their myriad events and courses. I congratulate all the people associated with this team for their efforts.
My dear countrymen, now an interesting yet strange question in ‘Mann Ki Baat’! Have you ever wondered about the journey of flowers? Some flowers that bloom on trees and plants travel to temples. Some flowers beautify the house, some dissolve in perfume and spread fragrance everywhere. But today I will tell you about another journey of flowers. You certainly must have heard about Mahua flowers. People of our villages and especially the tribal community know very well about its importance. The journey of Mahua flowers in many parts of the country has now embarked upon a new path. Cookies are being made from Mahua flowers in Chhindwara district of Madhya Pradesh. These cookies are becoming very popular due to the efforts of four sisters of Rajakhoh village.
Observing the passion of these women, a big company trained them to work in a factory. Inspired by them, many women of the village have joined them. The demand for Mahua cookies made by them is increasing rapidly. In the Adilabad district of Telangana also, two sisters have carried out a new experiment with Mahua flowers. They make various types of dishes with them, which people like very much. There is also the sweetness of tribal culture in their dishes.
Friends, I want to tell you about another wonderful flower and its name is ‘Krishna Kamal’. Have you visited the Statue of Unity in Ekta Nagar, Gujarat? You will see these Krishna Kamal in large numbers around the Statue of Unity. These flowers captivate the tourists. These Krishna Kamal have become the centre of attraction in Arogya Van, Ekta Nursery, Vishwa Van and Miyawaki forest of Ekta Nagar. Lakhs of Krishna Kamal plants have been planted here in a planned manner. If you look around you, you will notice interesting journeys of flowers. Do write to me about such unique journeys of flowers in your area.
My dear friends, keep sharing your thoughts, experiences and information with me as always. It is possible that something may be happening around you which may seem normal, but for others that topic might be very interesting and new. We will meet again next month and discuss those things of countrymen which fill us with inspiration. Thank you very much to all of you, Namaskar.
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MJPS/ST/RT
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MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: ‘Yoga for One Earth, One Health’ – Theme for IDY2025: PM in ‘Mann Ki Baat’
Source: Government of India
‘Yoga for One Earth, One Health’ – Theme for IDY2025: PM in ‘Mann Ki Baat’
It is a matter of pride for all of us that today the curiosity about our yoga and traditional medicine is rising, all over the world: Prime Minister Shri Narendra ModiPrime Minister appeals to everyone to include Yoga into their routine and take pride in the country’s traditional wisdom for overall well being
Posted On: 30 MAR 2025 7:04PM by PIB Delhi
In his latest Mann Ki Baat address, the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi emphasized the importance of fitness in daily life and praised initiatives like the Fit India Carnival and International Yoga Day. While sharing India’s vision for a healthier world population, the PM mentioned, “The theme of Yoga Day 2025 has been kept as ‘Yoga for One Earth One Health’. That is, we wish to make the whole world healthy through yoga.”
Notably, the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (MDNIY), a premier institute under the Ministry of Ayush, Government of India, has been entrusted with the responsibility of organising activities to mark the International Day of Yoga (IDY) this year on a grand scale. The institute recently unveiled the 100-day countdown to IDY2025 during the Yogamahotsav event held at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi on 13 March, 2025.
During the 120th episode of the popular radio program, the Prime Minister said, “Today along with fitness, the count also plays a big role. Count the number of steps taken in a day, count the number of calories eaten in a day, count the number of calories burnt… amidst all these counts, another countdown is about to begin. The countdown to the International Yoga Day. Now less than 100 days are left for Yoga Day. If you have not yet included yoga in your life, do it now… it is not too late yet. The first International Yoga Day was celebrated 10 years ago on the 21st of June, 2015. Now this day has taken the shape of a grand festival of yoga. This is such a priceless gift from India to humanity, which is going to be very useful for future generations.”
As the world gears up for International Yoga Day (IDY) 2025, the theme “Yoga for One Earth One Health” takes center stage and a wide range of activities revolving around it is being held. The 2025 theme highlights yoga’s role in promoting physical, mental, and environmental well-being, aligning with global calls for sustainability and unity. It builds on a decade of success since the United Nations recognized June 21 as International Day of Yoga, following India’s proposal in 2014.
During the Mann Ki Baat programme, the Prime Minister also stated, “It is a matter of pride for all of us that today the curiosity about our yoga and traditional medicine is rising, all over the world. A large number of youths are adopting yoga and Ayurveda as an excellent medium for wellness. For example, there is a South American country, Chile. Ayurveda is rapidly becoming popular there. Last year, during my visit to Brazil, I met the President of Chile. We had a lot of discussions about the popularity of Ayurveda.
While acknowledging the fast growing popularity of Ayush systems across the globe and the contribution of key stakeholders in this, the PM said, “I have come to know about a team named ‘Somos India’. In Spanish, it means – ‘We are India’. This team has been promoting yoga and Ayurveda for almost a decade. Their focus is on treatment as well as educational programs. They are also getting information related to yoga and Ayurveda translated into the Spanish language. If we talk about last year alone, about 9 thousand people participated in their myriad events and courses. I congratulate all the people associated with this team for their efforts.”
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi also appealed to everyone to include Yoga into their routine and take pride in the country’s traditional wisdom for overall well being.
10 unique signature events to guide events to International Day of Yoga 2025
This year IDY activities will revolve around 10 unique signature events to mark the 11th edition of the global event, which makes it the most expansive and inclusive:
- ● Yoga Sangama – A synchronised Yoga demonstration at 10,000 locations, aiming for a world record.
- ● Yoga Bandhan – Global partnerships with 10 countries to host Yoga sessions at iconic landmarks.
- ● Yoga Parks– Development of 1,000 Yoga Parks for long-term community engagement.
- ● Yoga Samavesh – Special Yoga programs for Divyangjan, senior citizens, children, and marginalised groups.
- ● Yoga Prabhava – A decadal impact assessment on Yoga’s role in public health.
- ● Yoga Connect – A Virtual Global Yoga Summit featuring renowned Yoga experts and healthcare professionals.
- ● Harit Yoga – A sustainability-driven initiative combining Yoga with tree planting and clean-up drives.
- ● Yoga Unplugged– An event to attract young people to Yoga
- ● Yoga Maha Kumbh – A week-long festival across 10 locations, culminating in a central celebration led by the Hon’ble Prime Minister.
- ● Samyogam – A 100-day initiative integrating Yoga with modern healthcare for holistic wellness.
Annexure
The International Day of Yoga (IDY) has become a global wellness movement, uniting millions across countries. Here’s a brief look at its key milestones:
- ● IDY 2015 – New Delhi: The first IDY at Rajpath saw 35,985 participants, setting two Guinness World Records.
- ● IDY 2016 – Chandigarh: 30,000+ participants gathered at Capitol Complex, including 150 Divyangjan performing Yoga Protocol for the first time. The Prime Minister emphasised Yoga’s role in treating ailments like diabetes.
- ● IDY 2017 – Lucknow: 51,000 participants joined at Ramabai Ambedkar Maidan, with Yoga highlighted as affordable ‘health insurance’.
- ● IDY 2018 – Dehradun: 50,000+ participants at Forest Research Institute, with the theme “Yoga for Public Health”. ISRO launched BHUVAN-YOGA and Yoga Locator apps.
- ● IDY 2019 – Ranchi: Focused on ‘Yoga for Heart Care’, with eco-friendly Yoga accessories benefiting Khadi artisans.
- ● IDY 2020 – Virtual: Amid the pandemic, 12.06 crore people joined online. The “My Life, My Yoga” contest attracted entries from 130 countries.
- ● IDY 2021 – Virtual: Themed “Yoga for Wellness”, reaching 496.1 million people globally. Iconic celebrations occurred at Times Square, the Eiffel Tower, and Tokyo Skytree.
- ● IDY 2022 – Mysuru: 15,000 participants at Mysore Palace, with a ‘Guardian Ring’ global Yoga relay and VR-powered digital exhibition.
- ● IDY 2023 – Jabalpur & UN HQ, New York: With 23.44 crore participants, this IDY set two Guinness World Records, including the most significant Yoga session (1.53 lakh participants in Surat). The ‘Ocean Ring of Yoga’ covered 35,000 km.
- ● IDY 2024 – Srinagar: Held at SKICC, Srinagar, with 7,000 participants braving the rain. The ‘Yoga for Space’ initiative saw ISRO scientists join in. A Guinness World Record was set in Uttar Pradesh, with 25.93 lakh people pledging to Yoga. 24.53 crore global participants marked this as a historic celebration.
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MV/AKS
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MIL-OSI USA: Norton Introduces Resolution to Designate March 27, 2025 as “Tuskegee Airmen Commemoration Day”
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (District of Columbia)
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) introduced her resolution to designate March 27, 2025 as “Tuskegee Airmen Commemoration Day.”
“As an elite corps of African American pilots and crew, as well as others, who fought in World War II, the Tuskegee Airmen deserve this recognition,” Norton said. “It will be deeply meaningful to the veterans, their family members, and the succeeding generations of Black service members who surely deserve our thanks.”
The Tuskegee Airmen were pilots, ground crews and support personnel serving in segregated units of the U.S. Army Air Forces during World War II. Their service and valor paved the way for the desegregation of the U.S. military.
Norton’s resolution follows.
RESOLUTION
Expressing support for the designation of March 27, 2025, as “Tuskegee Airmen Commemoration Day”, and calling on each State, the District of Columbia, and each territory to recognize the Tuskegee Airmen for their heroism, valor, and exemplary service to the Nation.
Whereas the Tuskegee Airmen were Black pilots, aircrew, ground crew, and support personnel who served in the Army Air Corps from 1941 to 1949;
Whereas 992 Tuskegee Airmen graduated flight training at the Tuskegee Army Air Field in Tuskegee, Alabama, and 450 pilots deployed into combat overseas;
Whereas the Tuskegee Airmen faced enormous adversity, from overcrowded classrooms to bigoted officers and segregated facilities;
Whereas, during World War II, the Tuskegee Airmen flew over 15,000 combat sorties and saw extensive action in the European and North African theaters;
Whereas 84 Tuskegee Airmen were killed in action, 12 died during training and noncombat missions, and 32 were taken prisoners of war after their planes were shot down;
Whereas the Tuskegee Airmen earned 744 Air Medals, 14 Bronze Stars, and 8 Purple Hearts;
Whereas, in 1945, Tuskegee Airmen in the 477th Bombardment Group staged a nonviolent demonstration to desegregate the officers’ club at Freeman Field, Indiana, and their nonviolent direct action would inspire later civil rights protesters;
Whereas the Tuskegee Airmen’s battle against fascism abroad and racism at home has been called a “Double Victory” and led President Truman to issue Executive Order 9981, integrating the Armed Forces;
Whereas four Tuskegee Airmen, Benjamin O. Davis, Jr., Daniel “Chappie” James, Lucius Theus, and Charles McGee, later became generals in the Air Force;
Whereas, in 2006, a bill to award the Congressional Gold Medal to the Tuskegee Airmen “in recognition of their unique military record, which inspired revolutionary reform in the Armed Forces” was signed into law (Public Law 109–213);
Whereas, in 2008, the Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site opened at Moton Field in Tuskegee, Alabama, to commemorate and interpret the heroic actions of the Tuskegee Airmen; and
Whereas very few Tuskegee Airmen are still alive today to share their story of courage and bravery with younger Americans: Now, therefore, be it
Resolved, That the House of Representatives supports the designation of “Tuskegee Airmen Commemoration Day”.
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MIL-OSI USA: Norton Releases Statement After President Trump Calls for Immediate House Vote on Bill to Correct D.C. Budget Issue Caused by the CR
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (District of Columbia)
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) released a statement after President Trump called for the House to immediately take up a standalone bill giving the District of Columbia the authority to spend its local funds for Fiscal Year 2025 at its locally-enacted levels.
The recent continuing resolution (CR) omitted a longstanding provision that would allow D.C. to continue spending under its local fiscal year 2025 budget. The Senate passed a bill, introduced by Senator Susan Collins (R-ME), to correct the issue, but the House has yet to vote on it.
“As surprised as I am to have an occasion to agree with President Trump, in this instance, we agree that D.C. should be able to spend its own local funds at its own locally-enacted levels,” Norton said. “I am grateful the Senate worked to correct this issue, and I will work with my colleagues to get the bill passed in the House.
“This ordeal, however, only helps to highlight the need for D.C. statehood so that D.C. can finally govern itself to the same extent afforded to the states, including making decisions about how to use its own local funds.”
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MIL-Evening Report: These 3 arguments are part of the long game in Trump’s trade wars
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Markus Wagner, Professor of Law and Director of the UOW Transnational Law and Policy Centre, University of Wollongong
Since returning to office in January, US President Donald Trump has doubled down on using trade measures – mostly tariffs – to reshape global trade. He plans to impose reciprocal tariffs on what he has labelled “Liberation Day”, April 2.
The Trump administration claims US producers face higher tariffs and more restrictions abroad than foreign producers when they export to the US.
The administration also examined tax systems such as Europe’s Value Added Tax and Australia’s GST, import regulations and other factors. It believes – mostly wrongly – these unfairly disadvantage American businesses and contribute to the US trade deficit.
As with many Trump initiatives, actual tariffs often change significantly between announcement and implementation, if they are implemented at all.
His reciprocal tariffs have been narrowed to imports from the US’ largest trading partners instead of imports from all countries. There may also be tariffs on specific sectors. Last week, Trump announced 25% tariffs on cars from overseas. At the weekend said he “couldn’t care less” if this made cars more expensive for US consumers.
Coercive control, revenue and re-shoring
President Trump has raised a myriad of puzzling arguments in favour of tariffs. They largely fall into three categories:
The first is the use of tariffs as a coercion tool against other countries. In the first Trump presidency, trading partners were pressured to renegotiate trade agreements such as the renamed but largely identical US-Mexico-Canada agreement.
Similarly, the Trump administration used the threat of tariffs to gain market access, elicit better trade terms or as a form of weaponised trade to achieve unrelated foreign policy goals.
Last week, Trump suggested he would consider a reduction in tariffs on China in exchange for a sale of TikTok by its Chinese owner.
The second category is the use of tariffs as a source of revenue. The Trump administration envisions tariffs to be collected by a yet-to-be-created External Revenue Service. This would form the flip side of the powerful and much-maligned Internal Revenue Service.
Trump claims tariffs will be paid by the exporting country. This would be in theory to finance future tax cuts. In practice, tariffs are almost always paid by the importer of goods and usually get passed on to consumers.
There is a potential contradiction between these two rationales. It appears the Trump administration wants to make at least some tariffs permanent. But doing so would almost nullify the use of tariffs as a bargaining chip and coercion tool.
The final category is to encourage companies to “re-shore” production to the US to avoid tariffs and to support US jobs.
This would signal a reversal of what 1994 presidential candidate Ross Perot, speaking of the North American Free Trade Agreement, called the “giant sucking sound going south”. Some manufacturing may return to the US. But the high costs of building new factories, re-routing supply chains and uncompetitive US labour costs will hinder large-scale re-shoring efforts.
A long-term plan?
The Trump administration’s trade moves can be seen as part of a larger strategy to reshape the US domestic and the global economic system.
In a recent speech, US Vice-President JD Vance argued for a structural reshaping of the US economy, to increase domestic innovation capacity.
Vance warned “deindustrialisation poses risks both to our national security and our workforce”. Vance himself sums up this approach by characterising tariffs as a “necessary tool to protect our jobs and our industries”.
This line of argument overlooks a number of critical factors. Tariffs lead to higher prices for consumers. Unless currencies adjust, the inflationary impact could disadvantage the very people that can least afford it.
The same is true if other countries respond to US trade measures by responding in kind, as Canada and the European Union already have.
American farmers and other export-oriented industries will be hard hit. From a strategic perspective, the US position as global leader has suffered a severe blow. Some countries are openly pivoting to its geopolitical and economic rival, China.
If this scenario comes to pass, the US pullback – an outright withdrawal is unlikely – from the highly integrated international trading system might end up a more chaotic version of the UK’s pursuit of Brexit.
A step back in time
The world of liberalised trade that followed the end of the Cold War in 1990 is ending. Countries will turn inwards, prioritising their economic security and resilience. The costs of this turn away from multilateralism and international institutions, however, are not just economic.
The close economic integration we have witnessed post-1990 has led to reduced uncertainty in international economic relations, increased international security and greater prosperity.
A return of the “beggar thy neighbour” policies of the 1930s would be a dangerous path, with the world inching closer to the abyss. “Liberation Day” might push the world over the edge.
Read more:
What are non-tariff barriers – and why is agriculture so exposed?
Markus Wagner does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
– ref. These 3 arguments are part of the long game in Trump’s trade wars – https://theconversation.com/these-3-arguments-are-part-of-the-long-game-in-trumps-trade-wars-252516
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MIL-OSI: Important Advisory: Barrie ice storm power restoration update
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
BARRIE, Ontario, March 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Alectra Utilities advises that due to severe damage to trees and electricity infrastructure, power restoration in the downtown core of Barrie will not be completed by Monday morning. Alectra crews will be working overnight and through the morning to restore power, however businesses and residents in the downtown area are advised that electricity service will not be available in all downtown core locations and should plan accordingly while emergency crews clear debris and repair powerlines in the area.
About Alectra Utilities
Serving more than one million homes and businesses and approximately three million people in Ontario’s Greater Golden Horseshoe area, Alectra Utilities is the largest municipally-owned electric utility in Canada, based on the total number of customers served. We contribute to the economic growth and vibrancy of the 17 communities we serve by investing in essential energy infrastructure, delivering a safe and reliable supply of electricity, and providing innovative energy solutions. Our mission is to be an energy ally, helping our customers and the communities we serve to discover the possibilities of tomorrow’s energy future.
Twitter: https://twitter.com/alectranews
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alectranews/
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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/alectranewsMedia Contact
Ashley Trgachef, Media Spokesperson | Email: ashley.trgachef@alectrautilities.com | Telephone: 416.402.5469 | 24/7 Media Line: 1-833-MEDIA-LN
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MIL-Evening Report: The best space telescope you never heard of just shut down
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Laura Nicole Driessen, Postdoctoral Researcher in Radio Astronomy, University of Sydney
On Thursday 27 March, the European Space Agency (ESA) sent its last messages to the Gaia Spacecraft. They told Gaia to shut down its communication systems and central computer and said goodbye to this amazing space telescope.
Gaia has been the most successful ESA space mission ever, so why did they turn Gaia off? What did Gaia achieve? And perhaps most importantly, why was it my favourite space telescope?
Running on empty
Gaia was retired for a simple reason: after more than 11 years in space, it ran out of the cold gas propellant it needed to keep scanning the sky.
The telescope did its last observation on 15 January 2025. The ESA team then performed testing for a few weeks, before telling Gaia to leave its home at a point in space called L2 and start orbiting the Sun away from Earth.
L2 is one of five “Lagrangian points” around Earth and the Sun where gravitational conditions make for a nice, stable orbit. L2 is located 1.5 million kilometres from Earth on the “dark side”, opposite the Sun.
L2 is a highly prized location because it’s a stable spot to orbit, it’s close enough to Earth for easy communication, and spacecraft can use the Sun behind them for solar power while looking away from the Sun out into space.
It’s also too far away from Earth to send anyone on a repair mission, so once your spacecraft gets there it’s on its own.
Keeping L2 clear
L2 currently hosts the James Webb Space Telescope (operated by the USA, Europe and Canada), the European Euclid mission, the Chinese Chang’e 6 orbiter and the joint Russian-German Spektr-RG observatory. Since L2 is such a key location for space missions, it’s essential to keep it clear of debris and retired spacecraft.
A final status update from Gaia.
ESA, CC BY-SAGaia used its thrusters for the last time to push itself away from L2, and is now drifting around the Sun in a “retirement orbit” where it won’t get in anybody’s way.
As part of the retirement process, the Gaia team wrote farewell messages into the craft’s software and sent it the names of around 1,500 people who worked on Gaia over the years.
What is Gaia?
Gaia looks a bit like a spinning top hat in space. Its main mission was to produce a detailed, three-dimensional map of our galaxy, the Milky Way.
To do this, it measured the precise positions and motions of 1.46 billion objects in space. Gaia also measured brightnesses and variability and those data were used to provide temperatures, gravitational parameters, stellar types and more for millions of stars. One of the key pieces of information Gaia provided was the distance to millions of stars.
A cosmic measuring tape
I’m a radio astronomer, which means I use radio telescopes here on Earth to explore the Universe. Radio light is the longest wavelength of light, invisible to human eyes, and I use it to investigate magnetic stars.
But even though I’m a radio astronomer and Gaia was an optical telescope, looking at the same wavelengths of light our eyes can see, I use Gaia data almost every single day.
I used it today to find out how far away, how bright, and how fast a star was. Before Gaia, I would probably never have known how far away that star was.
This is essential for figuring out how bright the stars I study really are, which helps me understand the physics of what’s happening in and around them.
A huge success
Gaia has contributed to thousands of articles in astronomy journals. Papers released by the Gaia collaboration have been cited well over 20,000 times in total.
Gaia has produced too many science results to share here. To take just one example, Gaia improved our understanding of the structure of our own galaxy by showing that it has multiple spiral arms that are less sharply defined than we previously thought.
Not really the end for Gaia
It’s difficult to express how revolutionary Gaia has been for astronomy, but we can let the numbers speak for themselves. Around five astronomy journal articles are published every day that use Gaia data, making Gaia the most successful ESA mission ever. And that won’t come to a complete stop when Gaia retires.
The Gaia collaboration has published three data releases so far. This is where the collaboration performs the processing and checks on the data, adds some important analysis and releases all of that in one big hit.
And luckily, there are two more big data releases with even more information to come. The fourth data release is expected in mid to late 2026. The fifth and final data release, containing all of the Gaia data from the whole mission, will come out sometime in the 2030s.
This article is my own small tribute to a telescope that changed astronomy as we know it. So I will end by saying a huge thank you to everyone who has ever worked on this amazing space mission, whether it was engineering and operations, turning the data into the amazing resource it is, or any of the other many jobs that make a mission successful. And thank you to those who continue to work on the data as we speak.
Finally, thank you to my favourite space telescope. Goodbye, Gaia, I’ll miss you.
Laura Nicole Driessen is an ambassador for the Orbit Centre of Imagination at the Rise and Shine Kindergarten, in Sydney’s Inner West.
– ref. The best space telescope you never heard of just shut down – https://theconversation.com/the-best-space-telescope-you-never-heard-of-just-shut-down-253343
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MIL-OSI Submissions: Africa – Violence and Cholera ravage Northeastern South Sudan, Impacting Western Ethiopia with Outbreak and Refugee Influx – MSF
Source: Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders (MSF)31st March: A humanitarian crisis is rapidly unfolding on both sides of the South Sudan-Ethiopia border, as escalating violence, displacement and a widespread cholera outbreak are pushing communities to the brink, Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders (MSF) warns.
Clashes between government forces and armed groups, which initially began in Upper Nile State, now risk spreading to other parts of the country, while across the border, Ethiopia’s Gambella region is experiencing the effects of this violence. According to the United Nations, approximately 10,000 displaced people have crossed into Ethiopia since the beginning of March.
“We have already witnessed how this violence has fuelled the spread of cholera in several areas, but a larger, escalating conflict could push the entire country into an unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe,” says Zakaria Mwatia, MSF Head of Mission in South Sudan. “We urgently call on all parties to the conflict to ensure the protection of civilians, healthcare workers, and medical facilities, and to grant unhindered access for humanitarian and medical assistance, in line with international humanitarian law.”
South Sudan has been grappling with cholera outbreaks across various parts of the country since last year. The latest wave, which began in Upper Nile State, is now spreading further into neighbouring Jonglei state, the Greater Pibor Administrative Area, and across the border into Ethiopia’s Gambella region, where MSF teams are working to treat patients amid the surge in cases.
In Upper Nile State, MSF is treating those wounded in the violence and supporting cholera treatment facilities in Ulang, Malakal and Renk counties. In Jonglei State, MSF is responding in Lankien as well as in Akobo, where a 100-bed cholera treatment unit set up by MSF in Akobo County Hospital has treated over 300 patients in just over two weeks. MSF is also responding in Pibor town in the Greater Pibor Administrative area. Since the beginning of March, MSF teams have treated over 1,000 cholera patients across South Sudan and received over 30 patients wounded in the violence.
Ruach Riek Chuol was admitted to MSF hospital in Ulang with injuries he sustained in the violence. “My goods and property for my business were all burned inside the house,” he says. “Everything was destroyed in the fire, including the house where I was.”
In Ethiopia’s Gambella region, MSF in collaboration with the Ministry of Health has treated over 560 cholera patients since the start of the response in early March, in its Cholera Treatment Centre and units (CTC/CTUs) in Mattar, Moan and Burbeiye with a capacity of 100 beds. MSF is also running oral rehydration points and conducting water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) and community-based activities including door-to-door cholera awareness and water purification efforts, reaching over 5,000 people across multiple locations. In addition to cholera treatment, MSF teams have also provided medical care to 160 patients wounded in the clashes in South Sudan.
“I came here because back home in Nasir, people are being killed,” said a South Sudanese mother who recently arrived in Burbeiye, Ethiopia. “There was nothing to eat, and when we arrived at the areas where we took respite, my kids became sick. There were no health facilities that we could run to.”
The situation is rapidly deteriorating as thousands fleeing violence in South Sudan are crossing the border to seek safety. In Wanthoa Woreda, a new encampment in Burbeiye has emerged almost overnight, with over 6,500 new arrivals reported by local administrators — many of them women, children, and the elderly, arriving after days of travel.
“The displaced people are arriving in Gambella with little more than what they can carry,” said Joshua Eckley, MSF Head of Mission in Ethiopia. “Our teams are responding to the cholera outbreak and providing care to those arriving exhausted and in poor condition. There are significant needs, and without additional support, the situation could worsen.”
This crisis comes at a time when South Sudan and Ethiopia are facing major reductions in donor funding, including the recent USAID cuts. While MSF does not accept funding from the US government, the cuts in the humanitarian and health assistance would severely reduce capacity of other organisations to respond to such crises.
“In places like Akobo in Jonglei State, the cholera response has been highly impacted by funding cuts, including closure of critical health services,” says Zakaria. “A number of mobile clinics have already shut down following US funding cuts, and some organisations that supported health facilities, including cholera treatment units, have suspended all activities. This is part of a broader trend across the country.”
The healthcare system in South Sudan suffers from chronic underfunding, shortages of skilled health staff, medicines and supplies, and has limited capacity to respond to emergencies. The country, already struggling to meet its own medical and humanitarian needs, is further burdened by the arrival of over one million people fleeing war in neighbouring Sudan. Urgent support is needed to provide safe water, implement widespread cholera vaccination campaigns, and reinforce treatment capacity for both cholera patients and trauma cases.
“Disruptions in cholera treatment services, combined with reduced actors’ capacity to support oral vaccination campaigns, heighten the risk of further spread. We urge donors to allocate emergency funds for emergency response in South Sudan and neighbouring Ethiopia amid this escalating crisis,” Zakaria adds.
MSF is an international, medical, humanitarian organisation that delivers medical care to people in need, regardless of their origin, religion, or political affiliation. MSF has been working in Haiti for over 30 years, offering general healthcare, trauma care, burn wound care, maternity care, and care for survivors of sexual violence. MSF Australia was established in 1995 and is one of 24 international MSF sections committed to delivering medical humanitarian assistance to people in crisis. In 2022, more than 120 project staff from Australia and New Zealand worked with MSF on assignment overseas. MSF delivers medical care based on need alone and operates independently of government, religion or economic influence and irrespective of race, religion or gender. For more information visit msf.org.au
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MIL-OSI USA: SPC Severe Thunderstorm Watch 80
Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Note: The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
SEL0URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 80
NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
1055 PM EDT Sun Mar 30 2025The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a
* Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
Eastern Kentucky
Far Southern Ohio
Far Western Virginia
Western West Virginia* Effective this Sunday night and Monday morning from 1055 PM
until 600 AM EDT.* Primary threats include…
Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph likely
Isolated large hail events to 1 inch in diameter possible
A tornado or two possibleSUMMARY…The threat for damaging wind gusts will continue into the
region as the ongoing convective line progresses eastward.The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 60
statute miles east and west of a line from 40 miles north of
Charleston WV to 30 miles southeast of London KY. For a complete
depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline update
(WOUS64 KWNS WOU0).PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
REMEMBER…A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are
favorable for severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area.
Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening
weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible
warnings. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce
tornadoes.&&
OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 72…WW 74…WW 76…WW
77…WW 78…WW 79…AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
1 inch. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 60 knots. A few
cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean storm motion vector
27040.…Mosier
Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
SAW0
WW 80 SEVERE TSTM KY OH VA WV 310255Z – 311000Z
AXIS..60 STATUTE MILES EAST AND WEST OF LINE..
40N CRW/CHARLESTON WV/ – 30SE LOZ/LONDON KY/
..AVIATION COORDS.. 50NM E/W /23ENE HNN – 26SE LOZ/
HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..1 INCH. WIND GUSTS..60 KNOTS.
MAX TOPS TO 500. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 27040.LAT…LON 38938047 36778261 36778478 38938271
THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
FOR WOU0.Watch 80 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.
Note: Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes
Probability of 2 or more tornadoes
Low (20%)
Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes
Low (5%)
Wind
Probability of 10 or more severe wind events
Mod (60%)
Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots
Low (20%)
Hail
Probability of 10 or more severe hail events
Low (20%)
Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches
Low (10%)
Combined Severe Hail/Wind
Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events
High (80%)
For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.
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MIL-OSI USA: SPC Severe Thunderstorm Watch 79
Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Note: The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
SEL9URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 79
NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
1010 PM EDT Sun Mar 30 2025The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a
* Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
Eastern Ohio
Far Southwestern Pennsylvania
Northwestern West Virginia* Effective this Sunday night and Monday morning from 1010 PM
until 300 AM EDT.* Primary threats include…
Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph likely
Isolated large hail events to 1 inch in diameter possible
A tornado or two possibleSUMMARY…Ongoing convective line is expected to continue quickly
eastward over the next few hours. Some strong to occasionally severe
gusts are possible within this line.The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 60
statute miles east and west of a line from 30 miles north of Akron
OH to 25 miles south southwest of Parkersburg WV. For a complete
depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline update
(WOUS64 KWNS WOU9).PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
REMEMBER…A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are
favorable for severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area.
Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening
weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible
warnings. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce
tornadoes.&&
OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 72…WW 74…WW 76…WW
77…WW 78…AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
1 inch. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 60 knots. A few
cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean storm motion vector
26045.…Mosier
Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
SAW9
WW 79 SEVERE TSTM OH PA WV 310210Z – 310700Z
AXIS..60 STATUTE MILES EAST AND WEST OF LINE..
30N CAK/AKRON OH/ – 25SSW PKB/PARKERSBURG WV/
..AVIATION COORDS.. 50NM E/W /19ESE CLE – 25NE HNN/
HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..1 INCH. WIND GUSTS..60 KNOTS.
MAX TOPS TO 500. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 26045.LAT…LON 41358026 39008049 39008273 41358259
THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
FOR WOU9.Watch 79 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.
Note: Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes
Probability of 2 or more tornadoes
Low (20%)
Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes
Low (5%)
Wind
Probability of 10 or more severe wind events
Mod (60%)
Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots
Low (10%)
Hail
Probability of 10 or more severe hail events
Low (20%)
Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches
Low (10%)
Combined Severe Hail/Wind
Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events
High (80%)
For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.
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MIL-OSI Australia: Monaro Highway upgrades are now underway
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The new Lanyon Drive Interchange is the first of three upgrades planned for the Monaro Highway.
Construction has begun on the first of three interchanges planned for the Monaro Highway, south of Canberra.
Work on the new Lanyon Drive Interchange has begun which will improve safety and reduce congestion.
This consists of a southbound flyover for the highway over Lanyon Drive and three intersection upgrades including:
- the removal of traffic lights at the Alexander Maconochie Centre (intersection of the Monaro Highway and David Warren Road)
- a new roundabout at the intersection of the new Monaro Highway southbound off-ramp and David Warren Road extension
- upgrading the signalised intersection at Lanyon Drive and Sheppard Street to include a direct connection to David Warren Road and the Monaro Highway southbound off-ramp.
The design aims to have a minimal impact on existing native plants.
The landscaping plans will focus on local and native species. They will prioritise tree planting, water sensitive urban design and biodiversity conservation.
Some of the construction work has already been completed or is underway. This includes:
- major water mains and telecommunication networks were relocated for protection in 2022
- two gas mains have been relocated
- early preparatory works, including site clearing and earthworks, started last month. This involves large machinery, including excavators and trucks.
Preliminary design is also underway on future interchanges at the Hume industrial precinct and Isabella Drive.
There will be impacts to travel times during construction. This includes during peak periods, with reduced speed limits and temporary lane closures expected.
The ACT Government is encouraging motorists to rethink their travel plans where possible and consider taking public transport or travelling outside peak times where possible.
The government expects construction to take about three years to complete. The design and construction phases are estimated to create 700 jobs.
Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:
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MIL-OSI USA: Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth Concludes Visit to Japan
Source: United States Department of Defense
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth traveled to Japan to meet with Japanese counterparts and U.S. military leadership in support of the department’s efforts to reestablish deterrence, strengthen the alliance and advance the shared vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific.
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MIL-OSI USA: SPC Severe Thunderstorm Watch 77
Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Note: The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
SEL7URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 77
NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
635 PM CDT Sun Mar 30 2025The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a
* Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
Northwest Louisiana
Southeast and East-Central Texas* Effective this Sunday night and Monday morning from 635 PM
until 200 AM CDT.* Primary threats include…
Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 2.5
inches in diameter likely
Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph likely
A tornado or two possibleSUMMARY…Thunderstorms coverage is expected to increase over the
next few hours across southeast and east-central TX before then
continuing downstream into northwest LA. Strong instability and
moderate shear will support the potential for supercells. The
primary severe hazard with these supercells will be large to very
large hail (i.e. greater than 2″ in diameter). Strong wind gusts
could occur as well. Given the potential for a supercell mode, a
tornado or two is also possible.The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 40
statute miles north and south of a line from 35 miles north
northwest of College Station TX to 35 miles southeast of Shreveport
LA. For a complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch
outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU7).PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
REMEMBER…A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are
favorable for severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area.
Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening
weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible
warnings. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce
tornadoes.&&
OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 70…WW 71…WW 72…WW
74…WW 75…WW 76…AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
2.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 60 knots. A
few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean storm motion vector
24030.…Mosier
SEL7
URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 77
NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
635 PM CDT Sun Mar 30 2025The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a
* Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
Northwest Louisiana
Southeast and East-Central Texas* Effective this Sunday night and Monday morning from 635 PM
until 200 AM CDT.* Primary threats include…
Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 2.5
inches in diameter likely
Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph likely
A tornado or two possibleSUMMARY…Thunderstorms coverage is expected to increase over the
next few hours across southeast and east-central TX before then
continuing downstream into northwest LA. Strong instability and
moderate shear will support the potential for supercells. The
primary severe hazard with these supercells will be large to very
large hail (i.e. greater than 2″ in diameter). Strong wind gusts
could occur as well. Given the potential for a supercell mode, a
tornado or two is also possible.The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 40
statute miles north and south of a line from 35 miles north
northwest of College Station TX to 35 miles southeast of Shreveport
LA. For a complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch
outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU7).PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
REMEMBER…A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are
favorable for severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area.
Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening
weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible
warnings. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce
tornadoes.&&
OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 70…WW 71…WW 72…WW
74…WW 75…WW 76…AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
2.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 60 knots. A
few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean storm motion vector
24030.…Mosier
Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
SAW7
WW 77 SEVERE TSTM LA TX 302335Z – 310700Z
AXIS..40 STATUTE MILES NORTH AND SOUTH OF LINE..
35NNW CLL/COLLEGE STATION TX/ – 35SE SHV/SHREVEPORT LA/
..AVIATION COORDS.. 35NM N/S /50SE ACT – 46SSE EIC/
HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..2.5 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..60 KNOTS.
MAX TOPS TO 500. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 24030.LAT…LON 31639660 32669341 31519341 30479660
THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
FOR WOU7.Watch 77 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.
Note: Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes
Probability of 2 or more tornadoes
Low (20%)
Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes
Low (5%)
Wind
Probability of 10 or more severe wind events
Mod (60%)
Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots
Low (20%)
Hail
Probability of 10 or more severe hail events
Mod (60%)
Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches
Mod (60%)
Combined Severe Hail/Wind
Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events
High (>95%)
For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.
-
MIL-Evening Report: Step length, a devastating finish and ‘springs in his spikes’: the science behind Gout Gout’s speed
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Dylan Hicks, Lecturer & Movement Scientist / PhD Sports Biomechanics, Flinders University
2024 Chemist Warehouse Australian All Schools Championships live stream, Australian Athletics Every now and then an athlete comes along who makes people wonder, “how are they so fast?”
Let me introduce you to Gout Gout.
Gout is a 17-year-old sprint sensation from Australia, whose blistering 100m and 200m times have drawn comparison to none other than Jamaican sprint legend Usain Bolt.
While he was edged out over 200 metres in Melbourne last weekend by 21-year-old Lachlan Kennedy – recent 60-metre world indoor silver medallist who is a rising sprinter poised to break the ten-second barrier for 100 metres – Gout’s performances continue to signal a bright future on the track.
In a seven-month period since last August, Gout has:
- won silver in the 200m at the World Junior Championships (20.60 seconds, -0.7 metres/second wind)
- broken Peter Norman’s long-standing Australian 200m record (20.04 seconds, +1.5m/s)
- two weeks ago in Brisbane, smashed through the magical 20-second barrier for the 200m, recording a world-leading 19.98 seconds (+3.6m/s), albeit wind-aided (anything greater than 2.0 metres/second is considered wind-aided).
But what makes Gout so fast?
Is it his explosive start, long stride, top speed or smooth technique?
The answer, as with all athletic outliers, is likely a combination of several unique attributes.
Let’s dive into the science.
The science of sprinting
Sprinting is an ongoing battle of force and mass.
Gravity is pulling the athlete’s body mass down. Meanwhile, the athlete must apply muscular force into the track to keep the body upright.
Research suggests the world’s fastest sprinters generate the highest ground reaction force relative to their body mass and apply it in the shortest period, in the right direction (more horizontally in acceleration and more vertically at top speed).
At 5’11” (180cm) and 66kg, Gout does not display the muscular physiques of past champion sprinters including Asafa Powell (Jamaica), Justin Gatlin (the USA), or Australia’s own Matt Shirvington. Yet his performances suggest is he redefining the archetype of elite sprinting.
For anyone who has run at school, you know the difficulty of holding your top speed for the duration of a 200-metre race.
But Gout defies logic. His speed endurance (maintaining speed) sets him apart from nearly all athletes.
And not just compared to his age group, although he currently sits second on the all-time under-18 200-metre list behind US runner Erriyon Knighton.
Gout’s speed endurance is up there with the best in 200-metre history: Bolt, Michael Johnson or Noah Lyles. Each of them has won multiple Olympic medals.
The fastest official 100-200 metre segment (the final 100 metres of the race) ever run in a 200-metre event is 9.16 seconds by American Lyles, on his way to winning the 2022 world athletics championships in Oregon (19.31 seconds overall).
In Gout’s recent performance in Brisbane, he completed this segment of the race in 9.31 seconds. Bolt and Johnson’s best 100-200 metre segment is 9.27 and 9.20 seconds respectively.
This statistic puts Gout in elite company.
The magic of Gout
Closer analysis of Gout’s performance highlights some sprinting anomalies.
He covers the first 100m of the race in 10.67 seconds, which is quite slow relative to his finishing time of 19.98.
For comparison, when Bolt broke the 200-metre world record in 2009 (19.19 seconds), he ran 9.92 seconds on the curve (and 9.27 seconds on the straight).
But once Gout enters the straight, his magic is on full display.
Gout has an average step length of 2.60 metres. Bolt’s average step length in his 100-metre world record performance was 2.45m, with Lyles displaying a similar result, 2.35m, in his 100-metre win in Paris.
This allows Gout to take between 3.75-4 steps for each ten-metre segment, which he covers at an average speed of 10.8m/s (or 38.8km/h). Like Bolt, his step length is a huge advantage over his competitors.
However, there is a trade-off with step length and step frequency.
Gout’s longer-than-average step length reduces his average step frequency to 4.15Hz (steps per second), much lower than Bolt who averaged 4.47Hz when at his best.
However, research highlights elite sprinters are reliant on either step length or frequency, and athletes should train to their strengths, rather than fixing their weaknesses.
So this may not be an area of concern for the teenager.
Gout also displays a unique coordination pattern in how he interacts with the ground: the way he strikes the track with his feet almost makes it look like he has springs in his spikes.
Well, we all do in a sense.
Elastic energy is stored and released in our Achilles tendon which acts as a muscle power amplifier during running.
Longer Achilles tendon length and stiffness play a huge role in sprint efficiency. This allows athletes to move at faster speeds for longer periods at a reduced energy cost, and may be another one’s of Gout advantages over his contemporaries.
A bright future
At 17, Gout’s performances are out of this world.
The way he generates and maintains speed challenges some conventional paradigms in sprinting – namely that raw power and muscle mass are the primary determinants of speed.
With most elite sprinters peaking in their mid-20s, Gout’s performances at this stage of his career are even more noteworthy.
His success likely highlights the role of his unique coordination patterns, biomechanics, technical efficiency, hard work and great coaching all bundled together.
Gout has already rewritten Australian sprinting history. Next up, he’s taking on the world.
Just don’t blink – he’s that fast, you might miss him.
The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
– ref. Step length, a devastating finish and ‘springs in his spikes’: the science behind Gout Gout’s speed – https://theconversation.com/step-length-a-devastating-finish-and-springs-in-his-spikes-the-science-behind-gout-gouts-speed-252629
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MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK hosts first major international summit to tackle illegal migration
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
News storyUK hosts first major international summit to tackle illegal migration
The UK has mobilised over 40 countries and organisations to launch an unprecedented global fight against ruthless people smuggling gangs.
The UK is spearheading the toughest ever international crackdown on organised immigration crime as the Prime Minister and Home Secretary host a landmark summit today (31 March).
The Organised Immigration Crime (OIC) Summit brings together over 40 countries, including the United States, Vietnam, Iraq, and France, to unite behind a new approach to dismantle people smuggling gangs and deliver on working people’s priorities for secure borders.
This is the first time the full range of factors driving illegal migration, from the supply chain in small boats to anti-trafficking measures, illicit finance and social media advertising, have been explored at a global summit of this scale.
The summit will also see representatives from Meta, X and TikTok discuss how to jointly tackle the online promotion of irregular migration.
Through the summit, the government will use all available levers at its disposal to push forward progress in bringing gangs to justice, tackle the global threat of organised immigration crime and protect vulnerable people from exploitation.
To back this drive, the Home Secretary has today announced £30 million of funding going directly to high impact operations from the Border Security Command to tackle supply chains, illicit finances and trafficking routes across Europe, the Western Balkans, Asia, and Africa.
An additional £3 million will enable the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) to increase its capacity to prosecute organised international smugglers and expand its international footprint to support the Border Security Command to pursue, disrupt and arrest those responsible for dangerous people smuggling operations.
This reflects the Prime Minister’s long-held view, informed by his work as Chief Prosecutor, that cross border cooperation is the foundation of tackling international gangs and securing Britain’s borders.
In remarks delivered later today, the Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, is expected to say:
This vile trade exploits the cracks between our institutions, pits nations against one another and profits from our inability at the political level to come together.
When I was the Director of Public Prosecutions, we worked across borders throughout Europe and beyond to foil numerous plots, saving thousands of lives in the process. We prevented planes from being blown up over the Atlantic and brought the perpetrators to justice.
I believe we should treat organised immigration crime in the same way.
I simply do not believe organised immigration crime cannot be tackled. We’ve got to combine our resources, share intelligence and tactics, and tackle the problem upstream at every step of the people smuggling routes.
The summit will deliver concrete outcomes across Europe, Asia, Middle East, Africa, and North America by strengthening international partnerships, enhancing intelligence sharing, and implementing targeted disruptions to Organised Immigration Crime networks.
As a direct result, we will be able to strengthen UK borders and security and create a more efficient and manageable asylum system, taking the burden away from housing, the NHS and schools, and giving hotels back to the local economy.
Speaking ahead of the summit, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said:
Smuggler and trafficking gangs make their money crossing borders so law enforcement needs to work together across borders to bring them down. Only a coordinated international response, across the whole irregular migration route, can effectively dismantle these networks.
The Organised Immigration Crime Summit is the first of its kind and will reinforce the UK’s position as a leader by securing international commitments to disrupt Organised Immigration Crime at every stage of the business model.
The summit demonstrates mine and the Prime Minister’s absolute dedication to disrupting the callous Organised Criminal Gangs, strengthening our borders and ultimately save countless lives.
The UK’s global leadership on this is issue is already delivering results. France has agreed to launch a unit of specialist officers who are mobile, highly trained and equipped to respond dynamically to prevent small boat launches.
Germany has committed to strengthen their laws against those who facilitate smuggling to the UK and a new UK-Italy taskforce is hitting people smugglers’ financial flows. After boosting the resources for the National Crime Agency to work with international law enforcement partners, they have seized 600 boats and engines since July.
Along with this, work continues at home through giving law enforcement tougher powers than ever to smash the smuggling gangs, ramping up removals to record levels and surging illegal working raids to end the false promise of jobs used by gangs to sell spaces on boats.
This comprehensive approach is a vital aspect of the government’s Plan for Change, with the threat from organised immigration crime increasing in scale and complexity.
Organised immigration crime spans multiple countries, nationalities, and criminal methodologies, with recent estimate of the total global income from migrant smuggling reaching $10 billion last year.
Criminal gangs headed by hundreds of kingpins are using sophisticated online tactics, the abuse of legitimate goods and services, and illicit financial networks to facilitate dangerous and illegal journeys which undermine border security and put thousands of lives at risk each year.
The summit will also examine the work of the government’s Joint Maritime Security Centre (JMSC) in supporting the US, by providing innovative space-based maritime surveillance capability to monitor and dismantle any vessels along Haiti’s north coast suspected to be involved in illegal immigration, illegal fishing activities and drug smuggling.
The JMSC is harnessing cutting edge technology and capabilities to provide 24 hour monitoring of UK waters and ensure our borders are secure, by using satellite to provide a better overall understanding of incoming threats to the Turks and Caicos Islands. The UK government is working with our partners in Turks and Caicos to support and protect the Island from irregular migration.
This collaboration demonstrates the UK government’s commitment to deploying advanced capabilities against illegal migration while protecting overseas territories.
There has also been a series of major arrests of smuggling kingpins, including:
- arrests linked to a major Syrian organised crime group responsible for smuggling at least 750 migrants into the UK and Europe
- the arrest of a Turkish national suspected of being a huge supplier of small boats
- the conviction of 2 men in Wales who ran a smuggling ring moving thousands of migrants across Europe
- the arrests in February of 6 men wanted in Belgium over their suspected involvement in a major people smuggling ring
These arrests come alongside the NCA working with the authorities in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq for the first time, to facilitate the arrests of 3 men linked to a Kurdish people smuggling organised crime group, as well as an increase in the takedown of social media accounts linked to people smugglers.
Updates to this page
Published 31 March 2025 -
MIL-OSI USA: Transcript: County Executive Jenkins’ Swearing-In Ceremony
Source: US State of New York
arlier today, Governor Kathy Hochul attended County Executive Ken Jenkins’ swearing-in ceremony and delivered remarks.
VIDEO: The event is available to stream on YouTube here and TV quality video is available here (h.264, mp4).
AUDIO: The Governor’s remarks are available in audio form here.
PHOTOS: The Governor’s Flickr page will post photos of the event here.
A rush transcript of the Governor’s remarks is available below:
I know you’re expecting a video from me. In some of your eyes that might have been better — it was only a minute long, but I recorded it the other day knowing that I’d be tied up with the Budget. But then all of a sudden, as the day went on, I was in the Capitol this morning, I said, “I have to be here in person.”
I mean, this is the beginning of the “Ken Jenkins era” for Westchester, and I did not want to miss this momentous occasion. I heard the remarks of our great Comptroller — always unfortunate to follow Tom DiNapoli, but he’s a great, great, great leader and I thank him for all the work he does in every corner of the State. Let’s give him another round of applause.
And I heard there’s a new Congressman in the house. Who’s that guy? Let’s give a round of applause to George Latimer. God, I’m glad he’s there and I’m not anymore. But it is great to see you and, of course, to Shelley Mayer, our emcee, and all the electeds who are here.
Thank you, Shelley. I’ve just so enjoyed working with you over many, many, many years and many elections you had as well. It seemed like you were constantly on the ballot. And Suzanne Berger, thank you, thank you, thank you, for putting forth great, great leaders. Tim Idoni, we go way back a long time as County Clerks — I want to thank him for his leadership as well, and what a great public servant. Deborah’s here as well, the family’s in this house. There we go. Congratulations.
I will say this — a reflection back to election night of 2024 — one of the few bright lights were these couple of guys here, right? I mean it was a rough, rough night for us, and to know that we have leaders like George and now Ken in this important position gives me confidence to know that as we’re taking on the fights out of Washington, I’ll have the allies I need. And who would’ve thought? One of the first places they would pick on in our nation would be White Plains in Westchester County saying, “No, no, we don’t care about your seniors. They can go miles, and miles, and miles to get help from Social Security because we really don’t care about them and we don’t care about the 40 or 50 people who work there either.”
So, literally, my friends, we are two months away from a shutdown that is so unnecessary. Ken offered him space. George offered them space. It wasn’t space, it was that they wanted to inflict pain on our people and that’s the only thing I can conclude. So, as the Governor who needs partners like Ken Jenkins to continue doing what we’re doing, building more housing so our kids don’t have to leave when they finally get of age and they want to have their own families — and I know they want to stay because they’re going to want you to babysit their kids, okay? I know this now, I’m a grandma.
They want to stay. They want to continue investing in first-rate education — that’s what Westchester County is known for: exceptional teachers in schools and education; and Shelly Mayer knows a lot about this, she’s been a tireless fighter. We want to make sure that I continue to fight for childcare — $7 billion, we’re spending a lot of it here in Westchester County; our downtown revitalization issues, we want to make sure that money keeps coming back to Westchester County; our investments in Metro-North, $6.2 billion, my friends, we found a way. With the support of the Legislature, I think we’re going to get this through the Budget — $25 million to shave time off the trip into the city.
So, that’s what we’re doing, but I can’t do it without a great partner here in county government who’s going to take on the fights shoulder-to-shoulder with Washington, but also to make sure that we deliver for the people right here. So, I appreciate you — all of you who supported Ken Jenkins.
He’s been an exceptional leader. You know his history, you know his Bible. I don’t have to tell you, it’s all in my video if you want to watch it again. But, listen up. This era calls for strong leaders that people can believe in again, and that’s what we have to deliver with leaders like Ken Jenkins, and George Latimer and everyone else because we have the backs of our people. We know who we’re fighting for, and we’ll never, ever surrender to anyone — not here, not now, not ever.
So, thank you everyone for supporting my great friend, Ken Jenkins. God bless every one of you. Thank you.
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MIL-OSI USA: Kamlager-Dove, Mayor Bass Convene Congressional Leaders As Los Angeles Continues Preparations for FIFA World Cup, Olympic and Paralympic Games
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager California (37th District)
LOS ANGELES – Representative Sydney Kamlager-Dove, in collaboration with Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, convened members of the Los Angeles County Congressional Delegation today to discuss ways that local and federal government can work together and ensure that the coming major world events benefit the region for decades to come. B-roll available here.
“All eyes will be on the United States for the next decade of international sporting events. As the host of seven major competitions, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Los Angeles will take center stage,” said Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove. “The success of these games depends on a coordinated effort, and I am proud to have co-hosted this briefing to further strengthen our federal-local partnership. I look forward to continued collaboration with Mayor Bass, my congressional colleagues, and the administration to ensure the City of Stars shines bright for all to see.”
“It’s my goal that the coming world events benefit every part of our city and region,” said Mayor Karen Bass. “By working together, we will make sure that we get as much support as possible to deliver events that are safe, successful, and fiscally responsible while leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.”
The Delegation heard directly from Los Angeles Sports & Entertainment Commission President & CEO Kathryn Schloessman, LA28 Chief Executive Officer Reynold Hoover, and Metro CEO Stephanie Wiggins to discuss shared priorities and ways to prepare the region for coming world events. The Delegation also heard from Executive Director of the Office of Major Events Paul Krekorian. Executive Director Krekorian was appointed by Mayor Bass to coordinate City departments and external stakeholders, ensuring that upcoming major events generate positive economic impacts that benefit all Angelenos.
Members of the LA County Congressional Delegation at the convening included:
- U.S. Representative Judy Chu (CA-28)
- U.S. Representative Laura Friedman (CA-30)
- U.S. Representative Gil Cisneros (CA-31)
- U.S. Representative Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37)
- U.S. Representative Derek Tran (CA-45)
# # #
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MIL-OSI: Alectra working through Sunday night to restore power to approximately 18,000 customers
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
BARRIE, Ontario, March 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Alectra Utilities’ powerline crews will continue restoration efforts overnight on Sunday to return service to approximately 18,000 customers still without power in Barrie, Penetanguishene and Richmond Hill. This is down from the more than 44,000 customers who were without power at the height of the storm early Sunday morning.
Alectra crews are working 24/7 in very challenging and hazardous conditions, prioritizing public safety and critical infrastructure while restoring service as efficiently as possible. The utility has also brought in additional forestry crews to clear downed tree limbs from around the damaged powerlines in advance of the emergency crews that are repairing the grid. Unfortunately, due to the severity of the damage from ice accretion across Alectra’s service territory, and significant tree damage in downtown Barrie that is complicating restoration, some customers will be without power overnight and into Monday morning.
Customers can continue to get outage updates by following the Alectra X account, @AlectraNews, or by viewing the outage map at alectrautilities.com.
As power is restored, if residents notice that their neighbours have power again, but they are still out, it may be because their home’s service mast was damaged during the storm. Here is what they’ll need to know before we can re-energize: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rQ8AWvfN_oo.
Refrigerated food should be checked if power has been out for a lengthy period. We recommend avoiding opening your refrigerator or freezer doors unless necessary. Keep them closed as much as possible to prevent cold air from escaping. Learn more about ‘food safety in an emergency’ here: https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/food-drinking-water-safe-emergency.html#a3. Additional safety information can be found at alectrautilities.com/what-do-during-outage.
We know this is an extremely difficult time for those still without power, especially given the weather. We want to express our sincere appreciation to our customers for their patience, resilience and understanding as we work to restore service safely.
About Alectra Utilities
Serving more than one million homes and businesses and approximately three million people in Ontario’s Greater Golden Horseshoe area, Alectra Utilities is the largest municipally-owned electric utility in Canada, based on the total number of customers served. We contribute to the economic growth and vibrancy of the 17 communities we serve by investing in essential energy infrastructure, delivering a safe and reliable supply of electricity, and providing innovative energy solutions. Our mission is to be an energy ally, helping our customers and the communities we serve to discover the possibilities of tomorrow’s energy future.
Twitter: https://twitter.com/alectranews
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alectranews/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alectranews/?hl=en
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/16178435/admin/
Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/alectranews.bsky.social
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/alectranewsMedia Contact
Email: media@alectra.com | 24/7 Media Line: 1-833-MEDIA-LN
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c0ceacb1-6c95-492e-afb5-7e93a8d63238
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MIL-OSI USA: SPC Severe Thunderstorm Watch 75
Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Note: The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
SEL5URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 75
NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
510 PM EDT Sun Mar 30 2025The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a
* Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
Southeast Lower Michigan
Northwest Ohio
Lake Erie
Lake Huron* Effective this Sunday afternoon and evening from 510 PM until
1000 PM EDT.* Primary threats include…
Scattered damaging winds likely with isolated significant gusts
to 75 mph possible
Isolated large hail events to 1 inch in diameter possible
A tornado or two possibleSUMMARY…A well-developed squall line will move quickly
northeastward from Indiana into Lower Michigan and northwest Ohio
through this evening, with a continued threat for damaging winds of
60-75 mph, isolated large hail near 1 inch diameter, and possibly a
tornado or two with embedded circulations.The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 55
statute miles east and west of a line from 25 miles northeast of
Saginaw MI to 50 miles southwest of Findlay OH. For a complete
depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline update
(WOUS64 KWNS WOU5).PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
REMEMBER…A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are
favorable for severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area.
Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening
weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible
warnings. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce
tornadoes.&&
OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 70…WW 71…WW 72…WW
73…WW 74…AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
1 inch. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 65 knots. A few
cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean storm motion vector
23050.…Thompson
SEL5
URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 75
NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
510 PM EDT Sun Mar 30 2025The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a
* Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
Southeast Lower Michigan
Northwest Ohio
Lake Erie
Lake Huron* Effective this Sunday afternoon and evening from 510 PM until
1000 PM EDT.* Primary threats include…
Scattered damaging winds likely with isolated significant gusts
to 75 mph possible
Isolated large hail events to 1 inch in diameter possible
A tornado or two possibleSUMMARY…A well-developed squall line will move quickly
northeastward from Indiana into Lower Michigan and northwest Ohio
through this evening, with a continued threat for damaging winds of
60-75 mph, isolated large hail near 1 inch diameter, and possibly a
tornado or two with embedded circulations.The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 55
statute miles east and west of a line from 25 miles northeast of
Saginaw MI to 50 miles southwest of Findlay OH. For a complete
depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline update
(WOUS64 KWNS WOU5).PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
REMEMBER…A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are
favorable for severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area.
Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening
weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible
warnings. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce
tornadoes.&&
OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 70…WW 71…WW 72…WW
73…WW 74…AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
1 inch. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 65 knots. A few
cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean storm motion vector
23050.…Thompson
Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
SAW5
WW 75 SEVERE TSTM MI OH LE LH 302110Z – 310200Z
AXIS..55 STATUTE MILES EAST AND WEST OF LINE..
25NE MBS/SAGINAW MI/ – 50SW FDY/FINDLAY OH/
..AVIATION COORDS.. 50NM E/W /22NE MBS – 19NW ROD/
HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..1 INCH. WIND GUSTS..65 KNOTS.
MAX TOPS TO 500. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 23050.LAT…LON 43788262 40508330 40508539 43788483
THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
FOR WOU5.Watch 75 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.
Note: Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes
Probability of 2 or more tornadoes
Low (20%)
Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes
Low (5%)
Wind
Probability of 10 or more severe wind events
High (70%)
Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots
Mod (40%)
Hail
Probability of 10 or more severe hail events
Mod (30%)
Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches
Low (10%)
Combined Severe Hail/Wind
Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events
High (90%)
For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.
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MIL-OSI USA: SPC Severe Thunderstorm Watch 74
Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Note: The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
SEL4URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 74
NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
345 PM CDT Sun Mar 30 2025The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a
* Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
Southwest Arkansas
Far Southeast Oklahoma
North into Northeast Texas* Effective this Sunday afternoon and evening from 345 PM until
1000 PM CDT.* Primary threats include…
Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 3
inches in diameter likely
Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph likely
A tornado or two possibleSUMMARY…Isolated to widely scattered thunderstorms are forecast to
develop and rapidly intensify this afternoon and persist into the
evening. Supercells capable of large to very large hail will be
possible with the stronger storms.The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 60
statute miles east and west of a line from 40 miles north northwest
of Hot Springs AR to 40 miles west southwest of Corsicana TX. For a
complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline
update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU4).PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
REMEMBER…A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are
favorable for severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area.
Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening
weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible
warnings. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce
tornadoes.&&
OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 70…WW 71…WW 72…WW
73…AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
3 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 60 knots. A
few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean storm motion vector
27025.…Smith
Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
SAW4
WW 74 SEVERE TSTM AR OK TX 302045Z – 310300Z
AXIS..60 STATUTE MILES EAST AND WEST OF LINE..
40NNW HOT/HOT SPRINGS AR/ – 40WSW CRS/CORSICANA TX/
..AVIATION COORDS.. 50NM E/W /50ESE FSM – 15NE ACT/
HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..3 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..60 KNOTS.
MAX TOPS TO 500. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 27025.LAT…LON 35009231 31809601 31809805 35009443
THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
FOR WOU4.Watch 74 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.
Note: Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes
Probability of 2 or more tornadoes
Low (20%)
Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes
Low (5%)
Wind
Probability of 10 or more severe wind events
Mod (60%)
Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots
Low (20%)
Hail
Probability of 10 or more severe hail events
Mod (60%)
Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches
Mod (60%)
Combined Severe Hail/Wind
Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events
High (>95%)
For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.
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MIL-OSI USA: SPC Severe Thunderstorm Watch 73
Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Note: The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
SEL3URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 73
NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
415 PM EDT Sun Mar 30 2025The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a
* Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
Southwest Lower Michigan
Lake Michigan* Effective this Sunday afternoon and evening from 415 PM until
900 PM EDT.* Primary threats include…
Scattered damaging winds likely with isolated significant gusts
to 75 mph possible
Scattered large hail events to 1 inch in diameter possible
A tornado or two possibleSUMMARY…A well-developed squall line with bowing segments will
move quickly northeastward from Indiana into southwest Lower
Michigan through the afternoon/evening. Swaths of damaging winds
(60-75 mph) are likely with this squall line, along with the
potential for isolated large hail and a tornado or two with embedded
circulations.The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 60
statute miles east and west of a line from 40 miles north of Grand
Rapids MI to 10 miles southwest of Kalamazoo MI. For a complete
depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline update
(WOUS64 KWNS WOU3).PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
REMEMBER…A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are
favorable for severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area.
Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening
weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible
warnings. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce
tornadoes.&&
OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 70…WW 71…WW 72…
AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
1 inch. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 65 knots. A few
cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean storm motion vector
23050.…Thompson
SEL3
URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 73
NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
415 PM EDT Sun Mar 30 2025The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a
* Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
Southwest Lower Michigan
Lake Michigan* Effective this Sunday afternoon and evening from 415 PM until
900 PM EDT.* Primary threats include…
Scattered damaging winds likely with isolated significant gusts
to 75 mph possible
Scattered large hail events to 1 inch in diameter possible
A tornado or two possibleSUMMARY…A well-developed squall line with bowing segments will
move quickly northeastward from Indiana into southwest Lower
Michigan through the afternoon/evening. Swaths of damaging winds
(60-75 mph) are likely with this squall line, along with the
potential for isolated large hail and a tornado or two with embedded
circulations.The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 60
statute miles east and west of a line from 40 miles north of Grand
Rapids MI to 10 miles southwest of Kalamazoo MI. For a complete
depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline update
(WOUS64 KWNS WOU3).PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
REMEMBER…A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are
favorable for severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area.
Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening
weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible
warnings. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce
tornadoes.&&
OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 70…WW 71…WW 72…
AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
1 inch. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 65 knots. A few
cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean storm motion vector
23050.…Thompson
Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
SAW3
WW 73 SEVERE TSTM MI LM 302015Z – 310100Z
AXIS..60 STATUTE MILES EAST AND WEST OF LINE..
40N GRR/GRAND RAPIDS MI/ – 10SW AZO/KALAMAZOO MI/
..AVIATION COORDS.. 50NM E/W /29NE MKG – 28SE PMM/
HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..1 INCH. WIND GUSTS..65 KNOTS.
MAX TOPS TO 500. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 23050.LAT…LON 43458432 42128452 42128686 43458672
THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
FOR WOU3.Watch 73 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.
Note: Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes
Probability of 2 or more tornadoes
Low (20%)
Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes
Low (5%)
Wind
Probability of 10 or more severe wind events
High (70%)
Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots
Mod (40%)
Hail
Probability of 10 or more severe hail events
Mod (40%)
Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches
Low (20%)
Combined Severe Hail/Wind
Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events
High (90%)
For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.
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MIL-OSI Canada: Minister’s statement about Kootenay Lake ferry labour dispute
Jennifer Whiteside, Minister of Labour, has issued the following statement about the Kootenay Lake ferry labour dispute:
“Residents use the Kootenay Lake ferries to get to work, go to school, access services and stay connected to their communities. The ongoing labour dispute has been disruptive to daily life and the local economy. To help resolve the ongoing labour dispute between Western Pacific Marine and BCGEU Local 2009, I have appointed Vince Ready as a special mediator.
“Mr. Ready has vast experience in labour relations and is renowned for his success in helping employers and unions reach agreements. This appointment provides a path for the parties to work through their differences and I appreciate their willingness to engage in this process.
“I expect the two sides to bargain fairly throughout this process, while ensuring reliable ferry service for residents in the Kootenays.
“Mr. Ready will begin work immediately to reach a settlement. If a settlement is not reached between the parties within 14 days, he will issue recommendations to the minister and the parties.
“These recommendations will represent a fair and transparent path to the resolution of this dispute. It is in the best interest of both parties to carefully consider the special mediator’s recommendations.”
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MIL-OSI USA: Prepare for Snow, Freezing Rain and Ice
Source: US State of New York
overnor Kathy Hochul today urged New Yorkers to prepare for snow, freezing rain and ice beginning tonight and continuing through Sunday for parts of the North Country, Mohawk Valley and Capital District. A period of wet snow and sleet is expected this evening, transitioning over to freezing rain tonight except over far Northern New York where a mix will persist. Freezing rain will occur Saturday into Sunday with the greatest ice accumulation potential occurring during the overnight and early morning hours. Some parts of the North Country could see up to seven inches of snow and more than a quarter inch of ice accumulation through Sunday. In these areas, hazardous travel is likely and local power outages are possible. Governor Hochul urged New Yorkers to pay close attention to weather conditions this weekend and adjust plans accordingly.
“We’re expecting a series of winter weather conditions to hit parts of the North County, Mohawk Valley and the Capital District, and our agencies are prepared to assist as the forecast fluctuates across the regions this weekend,” Governor Hochul said. “New Yorkers in these regions should monitor emergency alerts and their local forecasts to prepare themselves for the snow, freezing rain and ice accumulation.”
A Winter Weather Advisory in effect for the North Country and northern parts of the Mohawk Valley and Capital District for mixed precipitation and ice from tonight into Sunday. Also on Sunday, for parts of Western New York and the Finger Lakes, there is a risk of severe thunderstorms. On Monday, additional severe thunderstorms with damaging winds are possible, mainly across the southeast half of the state.
For a complete listing of weather alerts, visit the National Weather Service website. New Yorkers are also encouraged to sign up for emergency alerts by subscribing to NY Alert — a free service providing critical emergency information to your cell phone or computer.
Agency Preparations
Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services
The Division’s Office of Emergency Management is in contact with their local counterparts and is prepared to facilitate requests for assistance. State stockpiles are staffed and ready to deploy emergency response assets and supplies as needed. The State Watch Center is monitoring the storm track and statewide impacts closely.Department of Transportation
The State Department of Transportation is monitoring weather conditions and prepared to respond with 3,754 supervisors and operators available statewide. All field staff are available to fully engage and respond. All available response equipment is ready to deploy and all residencies in impacted locations will remain staffed for 24/7 operations with operators, supervisors, and mechanics throughout the duration of the event and priority cleanup operations.Statewide equipment numbers are as follows:
- 1,615 large plow trucks
- 350 large loaders
- 159 medium duty plows
- 53 tow plows
- 30 snow blowers
- 19 graders
The need for additional resources will be re-evaluated as conditions warrant throughout the event. For real-time travel information, motorists should call 511 or visit 511ny.org, New York State’s official traffic and travel information source.
Thruway Authority
The Thruway Authority is ready to respond with 691 operators and supervisors available. Statewide equipment numbers and resources are listed below:- 365 large and medium duty plow trucks
- 10 tow plows
- 65 loaders
Variable Message Signs and social media (X, formerly known as Twitter, and Facebook) are utilized to alert motorists of winter weather conditions on the Thruway.
The Thruway Authority is leveraging technology to enhance the safety of both plow operators and drivers through a pilot program utilizing iCone technology. More than 50 of the Thruway’s heavy-duty plow trucks across the state are equipped with devices that can provide real-time data and alerts to popular vehicle navigation applications. In addition, all of the Thruway’s more than 250 heavy-duty plow trucks are equipped with green hazard lights, complementing the standard amber hazard lights. Green lights are intended to improve visibility and enhance safety during winter operations, particularly in low-light conditions and poor weather. Drivers are reminded that Thruway snowplows travel at about 35 miles per hour — which in many cases is slower than the posted speed limit — in order to ensure that salt being dispersed stays in the driving lanes and does not scatter off the roadways. The safest place for motorists is well behind the snowplows where the roadway is clear and treated.
The Thruway Authority encourages motorists to download its mobile app which is available for free on iPhone and Android devices. The app provides motorists direct access to real-time traffic information, live traffic cameras, and navigation assistance while on the go. Motorists can also sign up for TRANSalert emails and follow @ThruwayTraffic on X for the latest traffic conditions along the Thruway.
Department of Public Service
New York’s utilities have about 5,500 workers available statewide to engage in damage assessment, response, repair and restoration efforts across New York State, as necessary. Agency staff will track utilities’ work throughout the event and ensure utilities shift appropriate staffing to regions that experience the greatest impact.New York State Police
State Police instructed all Troopers to remain vigilant and will deploy extra patrols to affected areas as needed. All four-wheel drive vehicles are in service and all specialty vehicles are staged and ready for deployment.Department of Environmental Conservation
The Department of Environmental Conservation’s (DEC) Emergency Management staff, Environmental Conservation Police Officers, Forest Rangers, and regional staff remain on alert and continue to monitor weather forecasts. Working with partner agencies, DEC is prepared to coordinate resource deployment of all available assets, including first responders, to targeted areas in preparation for potential impacts due to snow, sleet, and ice.DEC reminds local officials to watch for ice jams and potential flooding in their communities. Ice jams are a major hazard that occurs when ice breaks apart and the pieces prevent a stream from flowing, leading to rapidly rising river stages and flooding. Municipalities are encouraged to undertake local assessments of potential ice jams in flood-prone areas and to remove any accumulating ice or woody debris. DEC permits and authorization are not required to remove debris unless stream banks or beds will be disturbed by debris removal and/or the use of heavy equipment. Municipalities and local governments are advised to contact DEC’s Regional Permit Administrators if assistance is required and to help determine if a permit is necessary.
If a permit is necessary, DEC can issue Emergency Authorizations to expedite approval of projects in place of an individual permit. DEC approves Emergency Authorizations for situations that are deemed an emergency based on the immediate protection of life, health, general welfare, property, or natural resources. DEC coordinates with agency partners — including DHSES and DOT — on monitoring and response to potential ice jams.Additional information on ice jam flooding, contact information for emergency assistance, and permit requirements is available on the DEC website: https://dec.ny.gov/environmental-protection/water/water-quantity/dam-safety-coastal-flood-protection/flood-preparation/ice-jam-flooding
Unpredictable weather and storms in the Adirondacks, Catskills, and other backcountry areas can create unexpectedly hazardous conditions. Visitors should be prepared with proper clothing and equipment for rain, snow, ice, and the cold to ensure a safe outdoor experience. Trails have mixed conditions of snow, ice, slush, and mud.
Hikers are advised to temporarily avoid all high-elevation trails, as well as trails that cross rivers and streams. Hikers in the Adirondacks are encouraged to check the Adirondack Backcountry Information webpages for updates on trail conditions, seasonal road closures, and general recreation information. Backcountry visitors should Hike Smart and follow proper safety guidelines. Plan trips accordingly. In an emergency, call 9-1-1. To request Forest Ranger assistance, call 1-833-NYS-RANGERS.
Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation
New York State Park Police and park personnel are on alert and closely monitoring weather conditions and impacts. Park visitors should visit parks.ny.gov, check the free mobile app, or call their local park office for the latest updates regarding park hours, openings and closings.Safety Tips
Travel
Some of the most important tips for safe driving include:- Monitor the forecast for your local area and areas you may be travelling to.
- Avoid unnecessary travel.
- If you must travel, make sure your car is stocked with survival gear like blankets, a shovel, flashlight and extra batteries, extra warm clothing, set of tire chains, battery booster cables, quick energy foods and brightly colored cloth to use as a distress flag.
- If you have a cellphone or other communications device such as a two-way radio available for your use, keep the battery charged and keep it with you whenever traveling. If you should become stranded, you will be able to call for help, advising rescuers of your location.
- The leading cause of death and injuries during winter storms is transportation accidents. Before getting behind the wheel, make sure that your vehicle is clear of ice and snow; good vision is key to good driving. Plan your stops and keep more distance between cars. Be extra alert and remember that snowdrifts can hide smaller children. Always match your speed to the road and weather conditions.
- It is important for motorists on all roads to note that snowplows travel at speeds up to 35 mph, which in many cases is lower than the posted speed limit.
- Oftentimes on interstate highways, snowplows will operate side by side, to safely clear several lanes at one time.
- Motorists and pedestrians should also keep in mind that snowplow drivers have limited lines of sight, and the size and weight of snowplows can make it very difficult to maneuver and stop quickly. Snow blowing from behind the plow can severely reduce visibility or cause whiteout conditions.
- Motorists should not attempt to pass snowplows or follow too closely. The safest place for motorists to drive is well behind the snowplows where the roadway is clear and salted. Never attempt to pass a snowplow while it’s operating.
Power Outages
- Check with your utility to determine area repair schedules.
- If you lose power, turn off or unplug lights and appliances to prevent a circuit overload when service is restored; leave one light on to indicate when power has been restored.
- If heat goes out during a winter storm, keep warm by closing off rooms you do not need.
To Report an Electric Outage, call:
- Central Hudson: 800-527-2714
- Con Edison: 800-752-6633
- National Grid: 800-867-5222
- NYSEG: 800-572-1131
- O&R: 877-434-4100
- PSEG-LI: 800-490-0075
- RG&E: 800-743-1701
For more safety tips, visit https://www.dhses.ny.gov/safety.
For all non-emergency service needs in New York State before, during or after a storm, call 211 or visit www.211nys.org/.
About the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services
The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (DHSES) provides leadership, coordination and support to prevent, protect against, prepare for, respond to, recover from and mitigate disasters and other emergencies. For more information, follow @NYSDHSES on Facebook, Instagram, and X, or visit dhses.ny.gov. -
MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell Statement on Valley Medical Center Layoffs
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell
03.30.25Cantwell Statement on Valley Medical Center Layoffs
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), senior member of the Senate Finance Committee and ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, gave the following statement regarding the 101 recent layoffs at Valley Medical Center in Renton:
“Hospitals in Washington state rely heavily on stable Medicaid funding. I urge the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to quickly approve Washington state’s 2025 application for the Safety Net Assessment Program so our hospitals can continue to provide care for the most vulnerable.. The necessity of this program shows how hospitals are already struggling to keep pace with costs – and Congressional Republicans’ plan to slash up to $880 billion from Medicaid would be devastating for patients and hospitals. We should not be giving hospitals another reason to worry when they are busy providing lifesaving care.”
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MIL-OSI Canada: Championing Alberta wood products in Texas
Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)
Texas is Alberta’s largest U.S. market for lumber, and Alberta’s wood products play a critical role in supporting American homebuilders, infrastructure projects and businesses. This trade mission aims to highlight the importance of Alberta’s high-quality wood products and ensure continued access to this vital market.
Between March 31 and April 3, Minister Loewen and a delegation from the Alberta Forest Products Association will meet with key government officials, industry representatives and advocacy groups in Texas, to reinforce the strong relationship between the two regions and emphasize the need for fair, open markets to ensure these industries continue to thrive.
“Alberta has built a long-standing and mutually beneficial trade relationship with Texas. Our wood products are vital to homebuilding and helping American businesses grow, and we are committed to ensuring this partnership continues to flourish.”
Through this mission, Alberta’s government is working to create new opportunities for people and businesses in both regions. By advocating for fair and transparent trade policies, Alberta’s government is working to ensure that the province’s wood product manufacturers remain competitive, while helping to build a stronger, more sustainable future for communities in both Alberta and Texas.
Minister Loewen will be joined by two government employees. Mission expenses will be posted on the travel and expense disclosure page.
Quick facts
- Texas received C$176 million worth of Alberta lumber in 2024, accounting for 17 per cent of the province’s total lumber exports to the U.S.
- In 2024, $3 billion of Alberta forest products were exported to the U.S., representing 72 per cent of Alberta’s total forest product exports. Exports included:
- $1 billion worth of softwood lumber to the U.S.
- $808 million worth of oriented strand board
- $704 million worth of kraft pulp
- $457 million worth of primary and secondary forest products including other pulp and panel products
- Texas sawmills manufacture southern yellow pine lumber, while Alberta sawmills manufacture spruce-pine-fir lumber.
- Both types of lumber are needed on U.S. construction sites and their availability allows builders to choose the best material for the job.
Itinerary for Minister Loewen*
March 31
- Minister Loewen travels to Austin, Texas.
April 1
- Meetings with Governor Greg Abbott’s office and Senator Charles Perry’s office.
- Meetings with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
April 2
- Forestry Day at the Capitol.
April 3
- Travel back to Edmonton.
*Subject to change.
Related news
- Increasing trade and investment with Japan (Nov. 7, 2024)
