NewzIntel.com

Category: Climate Change

  • MIL-OSI Security: Six Months of Keeping America Safe Under President Trump and Secretary Noem

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    DHS has accomplished more in six months than most Administrations achieve in an entire term

    WASHINGTON – In just six months, President Trump and Secretary Noem have delivered the American people a long list of victories in their mission to secure the homeland and Make America Safe Again. 

    Under their leadership, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has closed the southern border, removed violent criminal illegal aliens, restored law and order to our immigration system, supported Americans in times of crisis, revolutionized our Coast Guard to meet the challenges of the 21st Century, and kept Americans safe. 

    Secured the Southern Border 

    • On day one, President Trump declared a national emergency at the southern border.    
    • President Trump immediately reinstated “Remain in Mexico” and ended catch-and-release.  
    • Daily border encounters have plunged by 93% since President Trump took office.
    • Under President Trump’s leadership, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) has located over 10,000 unaccompanied children.
    • Migrants are turning BACK before they even reach our border— migration through Panama’s Darien Gap is down 99%.
    • President Trump—with $46.5 billion from the Big Beautiful Bill—is finishing the border wall. DHS already has more than 85 miles either planned or under construction with funding from the prior year, in addition to hundreds of miles that are now planned to be funded by the bill. President Trump’s Big Beautiful Bill also includes over $5 billion for new technology and border surveillance.
    • With the Big Beautiful Bill, CBP will get the resources they need to keep America safe, including $4.1 billion to hire additional personnel, including 5,000 more customs officers and 3,000 new Border Patrol agents.
    • In June, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) had the lowest number of nationwide encounters in CBP history at 25,228.
    • The number of nationwide apprehensions in June was also a historic low of just 8,024.   
    • Notably, on June 28, Border Patrol recorded only 136 apprehensions across the entire Southwest Border—the lowest single-day total in agency history.
    • And in both May and June, U.S. Border Patrol reported zero parole releases—reinforcing the Administration’s commitment to ending catch-and-release policies.   

    Removed the Worst of the Worst Illegal Aliens  

    • The Trump Administration empowered our brave men and women in law enforcement to use common sense to do their jobs effectively. 
    • DHS returned to using the term “illegal alien” which is the statutory language. President Trump will not allow political correctness to hinder law enforcement. 
    • The Trump administration has arrested more than 300,000 illegal aliens in 2025 alone.
    • 70% of ICE arrests are criminal illegal aliens with criminal charges or convictions.     
    • The Big Beautiful Bill will allow ICE to arrest and remove even more criminal aliens by providing $14.4 billion for removals, 10,000 new ICE agents, 80,000 new ICE beds, and a $10,000 signing bonus for new ICE agents. This will help ICE achieve as many as 1 million deportations per year.
    • As part of 287(g), DHS partnered with the State of Florida and opened Alligator Alcatraz, giving the Trump administration the capability to lock up some of the worst scumbags who entered the country illegally under the previous administration. The new facility expands facility and bed space by the thousands.
    • Operation Tidal Wave, the first 287(g) enforcement operation coordinated with state and federal law enforcement partners, resulted in over 800 arrests.
    • President Trump and Secretary Noem are empowering state and local law enforcement to get these criminal illegal aliens off our streets. DHS has secured more than 800 signed agreements with state and local partnerships under 287(g).    
    • At the direction of President Trump, CBP and ICE began widescale immigration enforcement operations in sanctuary city Los Angeles and southern California. The month-long operation resulted in arresting some of the worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens.
    • In July, federal law enforcement officers executed criminal warrant operations at marijuana grow sites in Carpinteria and Camarillo. At least 14 migrant children have been rescued from potential exploitation, forced labor and human trafficking. Federal officers also arrested at least 361 illegal aliens from both sites in Carpinteria and Camarillo.
    • After weeks of delays by activist judges, the Department of Homeland Security finally deported eight barbaric, violent criminal illegal aliens to South Sudan.    

    Delivering Justice for Victims of Illegal Immigration  

    • President Trump and Secretary Noem reopened the Victims of Immigration Crime Engagement (VOICE) office, which was shuttered by the Biden Administration. President Trump and Secretary Noem are standing up for the victims of illegal alien crime and ensuring they have access to much needed resources and support they deserve.    

    Incentivizing Historic Self-Deportations 

    • President Trump ended the CBP One app that allowed more than one million aliens to illegally enter the U.S. The Trump Administration replaced this disastrous program with the CBP Home app, which has a new self-deportation reporting feature for aliens illegally in the country.
    • President Trump launched Project Homecoming through a presidential EO. The United States is also offering any illegal alien who uses the CBP Home App a stipend of $1,000 dollars, paid after their return to their home country has been confirmed through the app. So far, tens of thousands of illegal aliens have used the app to self-deport.  
    • In addition to offering CBP Home, DHS announced illegal aliens who self-deport through the app will receive forgiveness of any civil fines or penalties for failing to depart the United States. DHS also made CBP Home more user friendly by eliminating certain steps and making it easier than ever for illegal aliens to self-deport.
    • DHS and DOJ are enforcing our immigration laws and fining illegal aliens who do not depart when they are supposed to. So far, nearly 10,000 fine notices have been issued by ICE.  

    Restoring Common Sense to America’s Legal Immigration System 

    • President Trump ended the broad abuse of humanitarian parole and returned the program to a case-by-case basis. As part of this effort, Secretary Noem terminated the Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela parole programs.
    • Following victory at the U.S. Supreme Court, DHS began sending termination notices in June, informing the illegal aliens both their parole is terminated, and their parole-based employment authorization is revoked – effective immediately.
    • DHS has returned the Temporary Protected Status immigration program to its original status: temporary. No longer will this program be abused and exploited by illegal aliens. Secretary Noem rescinded the previous administration’s extension of Venezuelan, Haitian, Nicaraguan, Honduran, and Afghan TPS.
    • Secretary Noem terminated Harvard University’s Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) certification—meaning Harvard can no longer enroll foreign students and existing foreign students must transfer or lose their legal status—for fostering violence, antisemitism, and coordinating with the Chinese Communist Party.
    • It is a privilege, not a right, for universities to enroll foreign students and benefit from higher tuition to help pad their multibillion-dollar endowments. Harvard University repeatedly abused this privilege and even stonewalled DHS’s request for information.   

    Initiating a Golden Age in American Air Travel 

    • Secretary Noem terminated the politically motivated Quiet Skies Program, which since its existence has failed to stop a single terrorist attack while costing US taxpayers $200 million a year. The program, under the guise of “national security,” was used to target political opponents and benefit political allies.
    • TSA ended the “shoes-off” travel policy, allowing passengers traveling through domestic airports to keep their shoes on while passing through security screening at TSA checkpoints. This change will drastically decrease passenger wait times at our TSA checkpoints, leading to a more pleasant and efficient passenger experience.
    • The Trump administration fully implemented REAL ID enforcement measures nationwide—a law signed 20 years ago. REAL ID helps ensure that travelers are who they say they are and prevents fraud by criminals, terrorists, and illegal aliens. Most travelers have not even noticed a difference because nearly 94% of travelers are already REAL ID compliant.
    • Secretary Noem ended collective bargaining for the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) Transportation Security Officers, which constrained TSA’s chief mission to safeguard our transportation systems.  

    Fixing Disaster Relief for the 21st Century 

    • The Federal Emergency Management Agency is now shifting from bloated, DC-centric dead weight to a lean, deployable disaster force that empowers state actors to provide relief for their citizens. The old processes are being replaced because they failed Americans in real emergencies for decades.
    • President Trump has established the FEMA Review Council to provide recommendations on how to best conduct disaster relief at the federal level. 
    • Under Secretary Noem’s leadership, the FEMA Review Council is developing a comprehensive plan for necessary change.
    • DHS has empowered state and local governments to lead disaster relief efforts without interference from the federal government.  

    Provided Rapid and Effective Support to Flood Victims in Texas 

    • Within moments of the flooding in Texas, DHS assets, including the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), CBP Border Search, CBP BORSTAR, and FEMA personnel surged into unprecedented action alongside Texas first responders for search and rescue operations.
    • FEMA deployed 311 staffers delivering critical intelligence, aerial imagery, and shelter for 171 survivors.
    • Combined state and federal rescue efforts evacuated and rescued over 1,500 people.   

    Getting CISA Back on Mission 

    • Under the Biden Administration, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Agency (CISA) censored free speech and targeted Americans.
    • Under President Trump’s direction, DHS closed CISA’s politically weaponized offices and fired those responsible for abusing their power.
    • CISA is now back on-mission: Protecting Americans and critical infrastructure from cyberthreats.
    • CISA is shifting away from an all-hazards approach to a risk-informed approach, prioritizing resilience and action over mere information sharing. 
    • CISA personnel are deployed across 10 regions in support of all 56 states/territories. 
    • CISA is also on the front lines of defending America from cyberattacks. 
    • CISA partnered with the FBI and NSA to ensure state and local governments have information and resources necessary for protection.
    • CISA is also providing security support for next year’s FIFA World Cup.
    • Secretary Noem discontinued the Critical Infrastructure Partnership Advisory Council (CIPAC) as a part of the implementation of President Trump’s Executive Order 14217, Commencing the Reduction of the Federal Bureaucracy, and removed members of the Cyber Safety Review Board (CSRB), which CISA oversees.  

    Revolutionizing the Coast Guard 

    • When President Trump came back into office, the Coast Guard faced its greatest readiness crisis since World War II because the Biden Administration left it underfunded and neglected.
    • President Trump’s order to surge Coast Guard assets to our maritime border changed the game.
    • In the first few months of the Trump Administration, the Coast Guard seized more cocaine and other illegal drugs than during the entirety of 2024.
    • For the first time in years, the Coast Guard expects to exceed its recruiting goals.
    • In Fiscal Year 2025, the Coast Guard has brought in more than 4,250 recruits – 1,200 more than the same time last year.
    • That’s 108% over the goal.
    • Under Biden, the Coast Guard fell short of its recruiting goals four years straight.
    • Under President Trump and Secretary Noem, the Coast Guard is unleashing “Force Design 2028,” a revolutionary new blueprint that will make the Coast Guard more agile, more capable, and more responsive than ever before.  

    Standing up for the American taxpayer 

    • The United States Coast Guard (USCG) eliminated an ineffective information technology (IT) program, saving nearly $33 million, and is now focusing resources where they’re most needed to protect our homeland. 
    • USCG partially terminated a wasteful Offshore Patrol Cutter (OPC) contract with Eastern Shipbuilding Group (ESG), which has been slow to deliver four OPCs, harming U.S. defense capabilities.
    • The Trump Administration stopped aliens on the Terror Watchlist from receiving Medicaid benefits.     
    • Secretary Noem cancelled CISA’s expensive headquarters project, saving taxpayers over half a billion dollars.  

    To stop policies that were magnets for illegal immigration, DHS froze all funding to non-governmental organizations that facilitate illegal immigration and announced a partnership with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to ensure taxpayer dollars do not go to housing illegal aliens. 

    ###  

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Typhoon Wipha leaves HK

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Hong Kong Observatory downgraded the storm signal from No. 8 to No. 3, as Typhoon Wipha moved away from the city this evening.

    The No. 8 Southeast Gale or Storm Signal, issued at 4.10 this afternoon was replaced by the Strong Wind Signal No. 3 at 7.40pm.

    The Hospital Authority said that 33 people received medical treatment at public hospitals due to typhoon-related injuries.

    During the storm, the Government’s 1823 Call Centre received 286 reports of fallen trees and the Fire Services Department received 425 reports, while the Drainage Services Department received seven flooding cases.

    Meanwhile, the Home Affairs Department opened 34 temporary shelters at which 277 people sought refuge.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Typhoon Wipha makes landfall in China’s Guangdong Province

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    GUANGZHOU, July 20 (Xinhua) — Typhoon Wipha, the sixth typhoon this year, made landfall in the coastal city of Jiangmen in south China’s Guangdong Province at around 5:50 p.m. Sunday, according to the Guangdong Provincial Meteorological Service.

    At the time of the typhoon’s arrival on the coastline, the maximum wind speed near its epicenter reached 33 m/s. It is expected to move in a southwesterly direction at a speed of 20-25 km/h. -0-

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Typhoon Wipha situation report (7)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Typhoon Wipha situation report (7) 
    The Home Affairs Department has so far opened 34 temporary shelters in various districts and 253 people have sought refuge at the shelters.
     
    As at 4pm today, the Government’s 1823 Call Centre and the Fire Services Department received 171 reports and 300 reports of fallen trees respectively, while the Drainage Services Department has received three confirmed flooding cases. In addition, no report of landslide has been received so far.
     
    According to the Hospital Authority, as at 4pm today, 16 males and 10 females have sought medical treatment at the Accident and Emergency Departments at public hospitals so far during the typhoon period.
    Issued at HKT 16:52

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Arrangements for DH Methadone Clinics

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Attention duty announcers of radio and television stations:  

    Please broadcast the following message as soon as possible and repeat it at suitable intervals:  

         The Department of Health (DH) today (July 20) announced that, as the Hong Kong Observatory has issued the Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal No. 8, apart from the DH methadone day clinics that remain open, the remaining methadone clinics will commence operation as soon as possible and stay open until the closing time of the clinics.

         Those receiving methadone treatment can attend Methadone Clinics for their daily dose.   

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Marine Department announcement (4)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Attention duty announcers, radio and TV stations:

    Please broadcast the following as soon as possible and repeat it at suitable intervals:

    Marine Department reminded ship owners, masters, and person-in-charge of vessels that Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal No. 8 is in force.

    Ship owners, masters and person-in-charge of vessels shall take immediate precautionary measures and properly secure your vessels at safe location.

    In the event of an accident, report shall be made immediately to Vessel Traffic Centre at telephone 2233 7801.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI China: South China provinces brace for Typhoon Wipha

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    GUANGZHOU, July 20 — South China’s Hainan and Guangdong provinces have been placed on high alert as Typhoon Wipha, the sixth typhoon of the year, is expected to make landfall along the coast Sunday afternoon or evening.

    As of 7 a.m. Sunday, Typhoon Wipha was observed at 21.7 degrees north latitude and 114.9 degrees east longitude, with the maximum wind speed near its center reaching 33 meters per second. It is expected to move westward at around 25 km per hour, with its intensity continuing to strengthen, according to meteorological forecasts.

    In Guangdong’s Zhuhai City, where strong winds and heavy rainfall are forecast, authorities raised the typhoon alert to red and upgraded the emergency response for typhoon control to Level I at 3 a.m. Sunday, according to the local meteorological bureau.

    The Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge was temporarily closed in response to the typhoon. Outbound customs clearance at Zhuhai Port of the bridge was suspended at 2:30 a.m., followed by the closure of the main bridge at 3:30 a.m., according to the bridge’s management bureau.

    School classes, transportation and business activities have been suspended across Zhuhai, and residents have been urged to stay indoors.

    At 8:30 a.m. Sunday, Hainan raised its emergency response for flood and typhoon control from Level IV to Level III, as strong winds and rainstorms are expected to impact the island province between Sunday and Tuesday, according to the provincial emergency management bureau.

    In the provincial capital of Haikou, various departments are taking precautions ahead of the typhoon.

    The maritime authority is carrying out electronic inspections in affected waters, maintaining real-time vessel monitoring and deploying personnel for on-site checks.

    Water affairs departments have organized drainage teams to inspect and maintain facilities, opened manhole covers in advance to facilitate drainage, and set up warning signs.

    The power department has stationed repair vehicles in key areas, while emergency plans have been activated for vegetable reserves to ensure market supply.

    China’s national observatory issued a yellow alert for Typhoon Wipha on Saturday.

    China has a four-tier emergency response system, with Level I being the most severe response, and a four-tier color-coded weather warning system, with red representing the most severe, followed by orange, yellow and blue.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • Hong Kong issues highest storm warning as typhoon Wipha approaches

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Hong Kong issued its highest storm warning on Sunday as Typhoon Wipha, packing winds of more than 167 kilometres (103 miles) per hour, brought heavy rain and strong winds across the territory, forcing the cancellation of more than 200 flights.

    The city’s weather observatory raised its storm signal to No. 10 at 9:20 a.m. (0120 GMT) and said it expected the signal to remain at that level “for some time.”

    According to the warning, Wipha will pass approximately 50 km south of the observatory. Hurricane-force winds are affecting the southern part of Hong Kong, the observatory said.

    Cathay Pacific Airways (0293.HK) cancelled all flights arriving at or departing from Hong Kong International Airport between 5 a.m. and 6 p.m. on Sunday. The airline waived ticket change fees and made arrangements for customers to rebook.

    Most public transport services were suspended on Sunday, including ferries, due to high sea swells.

    -Reuters

  • South Korea: Death toll rises sharply as heavy rains trigger deadly landslides in Sancheong

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Torrential rains that pounded South Korea for four consecutive days have left at least nine people dead and several others missing, after downpours triggered deadly landslides in the southern Sancheong County, officials said.

    A person in their 60s was found in cardiac arrest after a landslide, triggered by heavy rain, engulfed homes in a village in Sancheong, South Gyeongsang Province, on Saturday morning.

    In a separate incident, a landslide in another village in Sancheong killed two others in their home, while a deadly mudslide swept through homes in a different village in the county shortly after noon, leaving two people dead and one missing, according to fire authorities.

    Also in Sancheong, another individual was found in cardiac arrest around noon after their home was inundated by rain. Sancheong County issued an alert urging all residents to evacuate to safety, Yonhap News Agency reported.

    In the nearby city of Miryang, also in South Gyeongsang Province, a driver in his 60s was killed after floodwaters swept away his car.

    Authorities said five people were confirmed dead, two were missing, and two others were found in cardiac arrest in the province on Saturday alone, as record rainfall battered the region. Firefighters continued rescue operations to locate those still unaccounted for.

    South Gyeongsang is among the regions hardest hit by the recent downpours, with some areas receiving more than 700 millimetres of rain between Wednesday and Saturday.

    The National Fire Agency issued a nationwide firefighting mobilisation order in response to the landslides.

    So far, central and local government authorities have reported five deaths and four missing persons since the onset of the rain on Wednesday. Four of the five people killed in South Gyeongsang on Saturday were not yet included in the official death toll.

    The Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters is expected to release updated figures on casualties and damage assessments later in the day.

    Weather authorities have warned that up to 250 mm of additional rainfall could fall within the day, raising concerns about further damage and casualties.

    Evacuation orders have been issued for 7,029 residents from 4,995 households, with more than 2,800 people still unable to return home.

    The torrential downpours have inundated roads, triggered landslides, and flooded homes across the country. Overnight rainfall remained extreme in many regions.

    Incheon’s Yeongheung Island saw 98.5 mm of rain fall in just one hour, between 12:50 a.m. and 1:50 a.m., while Boseong in South Jeolla Province received 88 mm in the same time frame.

    Some areas have already received over 40 percent of their annual average rainfall in the past four days. Seosan recorded 558.6 mm of rain from Wednesday to Friday morning — equivalent to 45 percent of its yearly average.

    A total of 729 cases of public infrastructure damage have been reported, including 388 flooded roads, 133 landslides, and 57 river facility collapses. Private property damage reached 1,014 cases, including 64 flooded buildings and 59 instances of submerged farmland.

    -IANS

  • South Korea: Death toll rises sharply as heavy rains trigger deadly landslides in Sancheong

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Torrential rains that pounded South Korea for four consecutive days have left at least nine people dead and several others missing, after downpours triggered deadly landslides in the southern Sancheong County, officials said.

    A person in their 60s was found in cardiac arrest after a landslide, triggered by heavy rain, engulfed homes in a village in Sancheong, South Gyeongsang Province, on Saturday morning.

    In a separate incident, a landslide in another village in Sancheong killed two others in their home, while a deadly mudslide swept through homes in a different village in the county shortly after noon, leaving two people dead and one missing, according to fire authorities.

    Also in Sancheong, another individual was found in cardiac arrest around noon after their home was inundated by rain. Sancheong County issued an alert urging all residents to evacuate to safety, Yonhap News Agency reported.

    In the nearby city of Miryang, also in South Gyeongsang Province, a driver in his 60s was killed after floodwaters swept away his car.

    Authorities said five people were confirmed dead, two were missing, and two others were found in cardiac arrest in the province on Saturday alone, as record rainfall battered the region. Firefighters continued rescue operations to locate those still unaccounted for.

    South Gyeongsang is among the regions hardest hit by the recent downpours, with some areas receiving more than 700 millimetres of rain between Wednesday and Saturday.

    The National Fire Agency issued a nationwide firefighting mobilisation order in response to the landslides.

    So far, central and local government authorities have reported five deaths and four missing persons since the onset of the rain on Wednesday. Four of the five people killed in South Gyeongsang on Saturday were not yet included in the official death toll.

    The Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters is expected to release updated figures on casualties and damage assessments later in the day.

    Weather authorities have warned that up to 250 mm of additional rainfall could fall within the day, raising concerns about further damage and casualties.

    Evacuation orders have been issued for 7,029 residents from 4,995 households, with more than 2,800 people still unable to return home.

    The torrential downpours have inundated roads, triggered landslides, and flooded homes across the country. Overnight rainfall remained extreme in many regions.

    Incheon’s Yeongheung Island saw 98.5 mm of rain fall in just one hour, between 12:50 a.m. and 1:50 a.m., while Boseong in South Jeolla Province received 88 mm in the same time frame.

    Some areas have already received over 40 percent of their annual average rainfall in the past four days. Seosan recorded 558.6 mm of rain from Wednesday to Friday morning — equivalent to 45 percent of its yearly average.

    A total of 729 cases of public infrastructure damage have been reported, including 388 flooded roads, 133 landslides, and 57 river facility collapses. Private property damage reached 1,014 cases, including 64 flooded buildings and 59 instances of submerged farmland.

    -IANS

  • MIL-OSI China: 37 confirmed dead in cruise ship accident in N. Vietnam

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Rescuers work at the capsizing site of a cruise ship in Ha Long Bay, northern Vietnam’s Quang Ninh province, July 20, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    A total of 47 people have been recovered, including 10 survivors and 37 confirmed dead, after a cruise ship capsized in Ha Long Bay, northern Vietnam, Vietnam News Agency reported on Sunday.

    The wreck was salvaged and towed ashore on early Sunday morning for further investigation.

    The ship sank on Saturday afternoon while carrying 48 Vietnamese tourists on a sightseeing tour.

    Five crew members were also on board, according to the state-owned media.

    Under the direction of Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha, authorities in Quang Ninh province deployed four large vessels and core rescue forces to support the salvage operation.

    Rescue teams are now racing to search for missing people as Typhoon Wipha is approaching the area, local media VnExpress reported.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Typhoon Wipha situation report (4)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The Hurricane Signal No. 10 issued by the Hong Kong Observatory at 9.20am today (July 20) remains in force.
     
    The Home Affairs Department has so far opened 34 temporary shelters in various districts and 221 people have sought refuge at the shelters.
     
    As at 10am today, the Government’s 1823 Call Centre and the Fire Services Department received 13 reports and 72 reports of fallen trees respectively. No report of landslide or flooding has been received so far.
     
    According to the Hospital Authority, as at 10am today, two males have sought medical treatment at the Accident and Emergency Departments at public hospitals so far during the typhoon period.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Typhoon Wipha situation report (3)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Typhoon Wipha situation report (3) 
    The Home Affairs Department has so far opened 34 temporary shelters in various districts and 214 people have sought refuge at the shelters.
     
    As at 9am today, the Government’s 1823 Call Centre and the Fire Services Department received four reports and 11 reports of fallen trees respectively. As at 8am today, no report of landslide or flooding has been received so far.
     
    According to the Hospital Authority, as at 8am today, one male has sought medical treatment at the Accident and Emergency Departments at public hospitals so far during the typhoon period.
    Issued at HKT 9:36

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Marine Department announcement (1)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Attention duty announcers, radio and TV stations:

    Please broadcast the following as soon as possible and repeat it at suitable intervals:

    Marine Department reminded ship owners, masters, and person-in-charge of vessels that Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal No. 8 is in force.

    Ship owners, masters and person-in-charge of vessels shall take immediate precautionary measures and properly secure your vessels at safe location.

    In the event of an accident, report shall be made immediately to Vessel Traffic Centre at telephone 2233 7801.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DH Methadone Day Clinics remain open

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Attention duty announcers of radio and television stations:  

    Please broadcast the following message as soon as possible and repeat it at suitable intervals:  

    The Department of Health (DH) today (July 20) announced that, during the Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal No. 9 being in force, DH methadone day clinics (except Cheung Chau Methadone Clinic) will remain open until the closing time.   

    Those receiving methadone treatment can attend Methadone Clinics for their daily dose.   

    The public is advised to pay attention to radio and television announcements.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Temporary Closure of the Hong Kong Wetland Park

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Temporary Closure of the Hong Kong Wetland Park 
    As Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal No. 8 or above is now in force, the Hong Kong Wetland Park is closed. The Park will re-open two hours after the signal is lowered. The Park will remain closed today if the signal No. 8 or above remains hoisted at 2pm. Any person or organisation who has paid a deposit for visiting today can contact the Park’s ticket office for refund arrangements or to change the visit date.
    Issued at HKT 7:03

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Public urged not to visit beaches for water sports activities during passage of typhoon

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Attention TV/ radio announcers:
     
    Please broadcast the following as soon as possible:
     
    As Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal No. 8 is in force, the Leisure and Cultural Services Department announced today (July 20) that all gazetted beaches under its management are temporarily closed. In accordance with the Bathing Beaches Regulation under the Public Health and Municipal Services Ordinance (Cap. 132, sub. leg. E), any failure to comply with the temporary closure arrangements is an offence and the offender will be liable to a maximum fine of $2,000 and imprisonment up to 14 days upon conviction.

    Members of the public should stay away from the shoreline during inclement weather, and should not conduct any water sports activities on beaches to avoid causing danger to themselves and rescue personnel.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Palestine solidarity rally greeted by Rainbow Warrior Gaza protest

    Asia Pacific Report

    Palestinian supporters and protesters against the 21 months of Israeli genocide in Gaza marched after a rally in downtown Auckland today across the Viaduct to the Greenpeace environmental flagship Rainbow Warrior — and met a display of solidarity.

    Several people on board the campaign ship, which has been holding open days over last weekend and this weekend, held up Palestinian flags and displayed a large banner declaring “Sanction Israel — Stop the genocide”.

    About 300 people were in the vibrant rally and Greenpeace Aotearoa oceans campaigner Juan Parada came out on Halsey Wharf to speak to the protesters in solidarity over Gaza.

    “Greenpeace stands for peace and justice, and environmental justice, not only for the environmental damage, but for the lives of the people,” said Parada, a former media practitioner.

    Global environmental campaigners have stepped up their condemnation of the devastation in Gaza and the occupied Palestinian territories as well as the protests over the genocide, which has so far killed almost 59,000 people, most of them women and children, according to the Gaza Health Department, although some researchers say the actual death toll is far higher.

    Greenpeace campaigner Juan Parada (left) and one of the Palestine rally facilitators, Youssef Sammour, at today’s rally as it reached Halsey Wharf. Image: Asia Pacific Report

    Gaza war emissions condemned
    New research recently revealed that the carbon footprint of the first 15 months of Israel’s war on Gaza would be greater than the annual planet-warming emissions of 100 individual countries, worsening the global climate emergency on top of the huge civilian death toll.

    The report cited by The Guardian indicated that Israel’s relentless bombardment, blockade and refusal to comply with international court rulings had “underscored the asymmetry of each side’s war machine, as well as almost unconditional military, energy and diplomatic support Israel enjoys from allies, including the US and UK”.

    The Israeli war machine has been primarily blamed.

    The report, titled “War on the Climate: A Multitemporal Study of Greenhouse Gas Emissions of the Israel-Gaza Conflict” and published by the Social Science Research Network, is part of a growing movement to hold states and businesses accountable for the climate and environmental costs of war and occupation.

    “This is cruelty – this is not a war”, says the young girl’s placard on the Viaduct today. Image: Asia Pacific Report

    Greenpeace open letter
    Greenpeace Aotearoa recently came out with strong statements about the genocidal war on Gaza with executive director Russel Norman earlier this month writing an open letter to Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Foreign Minister Winston Peters, expressing his grave concerns about the “ongoing genocide in Gaza being carried out by Israeli forces” — and the ongoing failure of the New Zealand Government to impose meaningful sanctions on Israel.

    He referred to the mounting death toll of starving Palestinians being deliberately shot at the notorious Israeli-US backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) food distribution sites.

    Norman also cited an Israeli newspaper Ha’aretz report that Israeli soldiers had been ordered to deliberately shoot unarmed Palestinians seeking aid, quoting one Israeli soldier saying: “It’s a killing field.”

    Today’s rally featured many Palestinians wearing thobe costumes in advance of Palestinian Traditional Dress Day on July 25.

    This is a day to showcase and celebrate the rich Palestinian cultural heritage through traditional clothing that is intricately embroidered.

    Traditional thobes are a symbol of Palestinian resilience.

    “Israel-USA – blood on your hands” banner at today’s rally in Auckland. Image: Asia Pacific Report

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Palestine solidarity rally greeted by Rainbow Warrior Gaza protest

    Asia Pacific Report

    Palestinian supporters and protesters against the 21 months of Israeli genocide in Gaza marched after a rally in downtown Auckland today across the Viaduct to the Greenpeace environmental flagship Rainbow Warrior — and met a display of solidarity.

    Several people on board the campaign ship, which has been holding open days over last weekend and this weekend, held up Palestinian flags and displayed a large banner declaring “Sanction Israel — Stop the genocide”.

    About 300 people were in the vibrant rally and Greenpeace Aotearoa oceans campaigner Juan Parada came out on Halsey Wharf to speak to the protesters in solidarity over Gaza.

    “Greenpeace stands for peace and justice, and environmental justice, not only for the environmental damage, but for the lives of the people,” said Parada, a former media practitioner.

    Global environmental campaigners have stepped up their condemnation of the devastation in Gaza and the occupied Palestinian territories as well as the protests over the genocide, which has so far killed almost 59,000 people, most of them women and children, according to the Gaza Health Department, although some researchers say the actual death toll is far higher.

    Greenpeace campaigner Juan Parada (left) and one of the Palestine rally facilitators, Youssef Sammour, at today’s rally as it reached Halsey Wharf. Image: Asia Pacific Report

    Gaza war emissions condemned
    New research recently revealed that the carbon footprint of the first 15 months of Israel’s war on Gaza would be greater than the annual planet-warming emissions of 100 individual countries, worsening the global climate emergency on top of the huge civilian death toll.

    The report cited by The Guardian indicated that Israel’s relentless bombardment, blockade and refusal to comply with international court rulings had “underscored the asymmetry of each side’s war machine, as well as almost unconditional military, energy and diplomatic support Israel enjoys from allies, including the US and UK”.

    The Israeli war machine has been primarily blamed.

    The report, titled “War on the Climate: A Multitemporal Study of Greenhouse Gas Emissions of the Israel-Gaza Conflict” and published by the Social Science Research Network, is part of a growing movement to hold states and businesses accountable for the climate and environmental costs of war and occupation.

    “This is cruelty – this is not a war”, says the young girl’s placard on the Viaduct today. Image: Asia Pacific Report

    Greenpeace open letter
    Greenpeace Aotearoa recently came out with strong statements about the genocidal war on Gaza with executive director Russel Norman earlier this month writing an open letter to Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Foreign Minister Winston Peters, expressing his grave concerns about the “ongoing genocide in Gaza being carried out by Israeli forces” — and the ongoing failure of the New Zealand Government to impose meaningful sanctions on Israel.

    He referred to the mounting death toll of starving Palestinians being deliberately shot at the notorious Israeli-US backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) food distribution sites.

    Norman also cited an Israeli newspaper Ha’aretz report that Israeli soldiers had been ordered to deliberately shoot unarmed Palestinians seeking aid, quoting one Israeli soldier saying: “It’s a killing field.”

    Today’s rally featured many Palestinians wearing thobe costumes in advance of Palestinian Traditional Dress Day on July 25.

    This is a day to showcase and celebrate the rich Palestinian cultural heritage through traditional clothing that is intricately embroidered.

    Traditional thobes are a symbol of Palestinian resilience.

    “Israel-USA – blood on your hands” banner at today’s rally in Auckland. Image: Asia Pacific Report

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Palestine solidarity rally greeted by Rainbow Warrior Gaza protest

    Asia Pacific Report

    Palestinian supporters and protesters against the 21 months of Israeli genocide in Gaza marched after a rally in downtown Auckland today across the Viaduct to the Greenpeace environmental flagship Rainbow Warrior — and met a display of solidarity.

    Several people on board the campaign ship, which has been holding open days over last weekend and this weekend, held up Palestinian flags and displayed a large banner declaring “Sanction Israel — Stop the genocide”.

    About 300 people were in the vibrant rally and Greenpeace Aotearoa oceans campaigner Juan Parada came out on Halsey Wharf to speak to the protesters in solidarity over Gaza.

    “Greenpeace stands for peace and justice, and environmental justice, not only for the environmental damage, but for the lives of the people,” said Parada, a former media practitioner.

    Global environmental campaigners have stepped up their condemnation of the devastation in Gaza and the occupied Palestinian territories as well as the protests over the genocide, which has so far killed almost 59,000 people, most of them women and children, according to the Gaza Health Department, although some researchers say the actual death toll is far higher.

    Greenpeace campaigner Juan Parada (left) and one of the Palestine rally facilitators, Youssef Sammour, at today’s rally as it reached Halsey Wharf. Image: Asia Pacific Report

    Gaza war emissions condemned
    New research recently revealed that the carbon footprint of the first 15 months of Israel’s war on Gaza would be greater than the annual planet-warming emissions of 100 individual countries, worsening the global climate emergency on top of the huge civilian death toll.

    The report cited by The Guardian indicated that Israel’s relentless bombardment, blockade and refusal to comply with international court rulings had “underscored the asymmetry of each side’s war machine, as well as almost unconditional military, energy and diplomatic support Israel enjoys from allies, including the US and UK”.

    The Israeli war machine has been primarily blamed.

    The report, titled “War on the Climate: A Multitemporal Study of Greenhouse Gas Emissions of the Israel-Gaza Conflict” and published by the Social Science Research Network, is part of a growing movement to hold states and businesses accountable for the climate and environmental costs of war and occupation.

    “This is cruelty – this is not a war”, says the young girl’s placard on the Viaduct today. Image: Asia Pacific Report

    Greenpeace open letter
    Greenpeace Aotearoa recently came out with strong statements about the genocidal war on Gaza with executive director Russel Norman earlier this month writing an open letter to Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Foreign Minister Winston Peters, expressing his grave concerns about the “ongoing genocide in Gaza being carried out by Israeli forces” — and the ongoing failure of the New Zealand Government to impose meaningful sanctions on Israel.

    He referred to the mounting death toll of starving Palestinians being deliberately shot at the notorious Israeli-US backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) food distribution sites.

    Norman also cited an Israeli newspaper Ha’aretz report that Israeli soldiers had been ordered to deliberately shoot unarmed Palestinians seeking aid, quoting one Israeli soldier saying: “It’s a killing field.”

    Today’s rally featured many Palestinians wearing thobe costumes in advance of Palestinian Traditional Dress Day on July 25.

    This is a day to showcase and celebrate the rich Palestinian cultural heritage through traditional clothing that is intricately embroidered.

    Traditional thobes are a symbol of Palestinian resilience.

    “Israel-USA – blood on your hands” banner at today’s rally in Auckland. Image: Asia Pacific Report

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Southern China provinces put on high alert as Typhoon Wipha approaches

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    HAIKOU, July 19 (Xinhua) — South China’s Hainan and Guangdong provinces have been put on high alert after Typhoon Wipha entered the South China Sea, bringing strong winds and heavy rains to the two provinces.

    At 9 a.m. on Saturday, Hainan Province issued a Level 4 flood and typhoon alert, while Guangdong Province raised its flood and typhoon alert from Level 4 to Level 2 at 11 a.m.

    Typhoon Wipha weakened from a tropical storm to a severe tropical storm early Saturday morning, according to the Hainan Provincial Meteorological Service. At 8 a.m., its epicenter was located in the northeastern South China Sea, about 930 kilometers (580 miles) east of Wenchang City on Hainan Island.

    The Hainan Provincial Meteorological Service forecast that Typhoon Wipha is moving northwest at about 20 km per hour and gaining strength. It is approaching coastal areas stretching from Shenzhen in Guangdong Province to Wenchang on Hainan Island, and is likely to make landfall in these areas between Sunday afternoon and night.

    Due to its impact, heavy rain and strong winds are expected in most sea areas and onshore areas in Hainan Province from Saturday to July 22. In addition, shipping may be suspended in the Qiongzhou Strait between Guangdong and Hainan Provinces from Sunday to July 22.

    Street flooding is possible in Haikou, the capital of Hainan Province. Meanwhile, Guangdong Province is preparing for severe thunderstorms, gale force winds and tidal waves.

    In addition, specialized rescue vessels and helicopters, as well as powerful tugboats and cleanup vessels, are on standby in Guangdong Province.

    Let us recall that China has a four-level emergency response system for typhoons, with the first level being the most serious. -0-

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s southern provinces on alert as Typhoon Wipha enters South China Sea

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    HAIKOU, July 19 — South China’s Hainan and Guangdong provinces were plunged into high alert as Typhoon Wipha entered the South China Sea, bringing strong gales and heavy rains to the two provinces.

    Hainan activated a Level IV emergency response at 9 a.m. Saturday, while Guangdong upgraded its emergency response from Level IV to Level II at 11 a.m.

    According to the Hainan Meteorological Service, Typhoon Wipha intensified from a tropical storm to a strong tropical storm in the early hours of Saturday. At 8 a.m., its center was located in the northeastern part of the South China Sea, at approximately 930 kilometers east of Wenchang City of Hainan.

    The Hainan Meteorological Service estimated that Wipha is advancing northwest at a speed of approximately 20 kilometers per hour while gaining strength. It is approaching the coastal areas stretching from Shenzhen in Guangdong to Wenchang in Hainan, and is likely to make landfall in these areas between Sunday afternoon and nighttime.

    Due to its impact, from Saturday to July 22, most sea areas and land regions in Hainan will experience rainstorms and strong winds. Additionally, the Qiongzhou Strait between Guangdong and Hainan may face prolonged suspensions of shipping operations from Sunday until July 22.

    Haikou, the capital city of Hainan, may experience severe waterlogging. Meanwhile, Guangdong is bracing for strong thunderstorms, gales and tidal waves.

    Additionally, Guangdong has maintained specialized rescue vessels and helicopters, along with high-power tugboats and cleanup vessels on standby.

    China has a four-tier emergency response system for typhoons, with Level I being the most severe.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China issues yellow alert for Typhoon Wipha

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    BEIJING, July 19 — China’s national observatory on Saturday issued a yellow alert for Typhoon Wipha as the sixth typhoon of the year is expected to bring strong winds and heavy rain to the southern coastal regions of the country.

    The typhoon, observed at 19.9 degrees north latitude and 120.2 degrees east longitude at 5 a.m. Saturday, is moving northwestward at a speed of 15-20 km per hour, according to the National Meteorological Center.

    It is anticipated to make landfall along the coastal areas from Shenzhen City in south China’s Guangdong Province to Wenchang City in Hainan Province during the afternoon or evening on Sunday, the meteorological center said.

    China has a four-tier, color-coded weather warning system for typhoons, with red representing the most severe warning, followed by orange, yellow, and blue.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China issues yellow alert for Typhoon Wipha

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    BEIJING, July 19 — China’s national observatory on Saturday issued a yellow alert for Typhoon Wipha as the sixth typhoon of the year is expected to bring strong winds and heavy rain to the southern coastal regions of the country.

    The typhoon, observed at 19.9 degrees north latitude and 120.2 degrees east longitude at 5 a.m. Saturday, is moving northwestward at a speed of 15-20 km per hour, according to the National Meteorological Center.

    It is anticipated to make landfall along the coastal areas from Shenzhen City in south China’s Guangdong Province to Wenchang City in Hainan Province during the afternoon or evening on Sunday, the meteorological center said.

    China has a four-tier, color-coded weather warning system for typhoons, with red representing the most severe warning, followed by orange, yellow, and blue.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyden, Merkley, Colleagues Announce Legislation to Protect Workers from Extreme Heat

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)

    July 18, 2025

    Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley, both D-Ore., said today they have joined Senate colleagues in introducing legislation that would implement federal enforceable workplace heat stress protections in Oregon and nationwide.

    “As evidenced by this week’s high temperatures in Oregon, record-hot weather is here to stay thanks to the growing climate crisis,” Wyden said. “I applaud this legislation that takes common-sense steps to protect workers from preventable hazards like heatstroke. With the ongoing climate crisis driving up temperatures, I will keep battling for more protections for the hard-working Oregonians most exposed to dangerous heat conditions.”

    “Climate chaos is creating hotter, longer summers, putting many workers at risk of heat-related health issues on the job. Many Oregonians work outdoors – in our fields, in our forests, and off our shores and protecting them from the dangers of extreme heat is critical,” said Merkley. “The Asunción Valdivia Heat Stress Injury, Illness, and Fatality Prevention Act will provide essential safeguards in the workplace and help save the lives of working Americans.”

    The Asunción Valdivia Heat Illness, Injury, and Fatality Prevention Act would protect the safety and health of indoor and outdoor workers exposed to dangerous heat conditions in the workplace. The legislation would protect workers against occupational exposure to excessive heat by requiring the Occupational Safety and Health Administration to establish an enforceable federal standard to protect workers in high-heat environments with common-sense measures like paid breaks in cool spaces, access to water, limitations on time exposed to heat, and emergency response for workers with heat-related illness. The bill also directs employers to provide training for their employees on the risk factors that can lead to heat illness and guidance on the proper procedures for responding to symptoms.

    The bill is named in honor of Asunción Valdivia, who died in 2004 after picking grapes in California for 10 hours straight in 105-degree temperatures. Mr. Valdivia fell unconscious, but instead of calling an ambulance, his employer told Mr. Valdivia’s son to drive his father home. On his way home, he died of heat stroke at the age of 53.

    According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 2024 was the warmest year on record for the United States. The past decade, including 2024, was the hottest on record, marking a decade of extreme heat that will only get worse. Heat-related illnesses can cause heat cramps, organ damage, heat exhaustion, stroke, and even death. Between 1992 and 2017, heat stress injuries killed 815 U.S. workers and seriously injured more than 70,000. The failure to implement simple heat safety measures costs U.S. employers nearly $100 billion every year in lost productivity.

    From 2011-2020, heat exposure killed at least 400 workers and caused nearly 34,000 injuries and illnesses resulting in days away from work; both are likely vast underestimates. Farm workers and construction workers suffer the highest incidence of heat illness. And no matter what the weather is outside, workers in factories, commercial kitchens, and other workplaces, including ones where workers must wear personal protective equipment , can face dangerously high heat conditions all year round.

    The bill was led by U.S. Senators Alex Padilla, D-Calif., Edward J. Markey, D-Mass., and Catherine Cortez Masto, D-Nev., and U.S. Representatives Robert C. “Bobby” Scott, D-Va., and Alma Adams, D-N.C. In addition to Wyden and Merkley, the bill is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Angela Alsobrooks, D-Md., Tammy Baldwin, D-Wis., Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., Lisa Blunt Rochester, D-Del., Cory Booker, D-N.J., John Fetterman, D-Pa., Ruben Gallego, D-Ariz., Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y., Martin Heinrich, D-N.M., Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii, Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., Ben Ray Luján, D-N.M., Patty Murray, D-Wash., Jack Reed, D-R.I., Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii, Adam Schiff, D-Calif., Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., Peter Welch, D-Vt., and Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I.

    The Asunción Valdivia Heat Illness, Injury, and Fatality Prevention Act has the support of a broad coalition of more than 250 groups, including: Rural Coalition, International Brotherhood of Teamsters, AFL-CIO, UNITE HERE!, Communication Workers of America, Alianza Nacional de Campesinas, Sierra Club, United Farm Workers, Farmworker Justice, Public Citizen, International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers, United Food and Commercial Workers International Union, Union of Concerned Scientists, United Steelworkers, National Resources Defense Council, American Lung Association, and Health Partnerships.

    “Every worker safety rule in America is written in blood,” said UFW President Teresa Romero. “The UFW has been fighting for heat safety protections for decades. Over 20 years later, Asuncion Valdivia’s death still hurts. There are so many other farm workers — many whose names we do not know — who have also been killed by extreme heat on the job in the years since. Enough is enough. Every farm worker deserves access to water, shade, and paid rest breaks — it’s past time for Congress get this done.”

    “Everyone deserves safe working conditions, but powerful corporations have not done enough to protect their workers from hot working environments, exacerbated by the climate crisis,” said Liz Shuler, President of the AFL-CIO. “Extreme heat is increasingly causing indoor and outdoor workers to collapse or even die on the job, and our union family has already lost too many members to preventable, work-related heat illness. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) must issue a strong heat rule, not a weak one, to ensure workers have specific protections they need and to be able to raise unsafe working conditions without fear of retaliation.”

    “It’s long past time for meaningful legislation to protect Teamsters and other workers from the effects of prolonged heat exposure and dangerous heat levels while at work,” said Teamsters General President Sean M. O’Brien. “Paid breaks in cool spaces, access to water, and limitations on time exposed to heat are simple common sense steps that should be mandated immediately. Waiting to implement these measures is unacceptable and will result in the further loss of lives.”

    The full text of the bill is here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murkowski Helps Advance First Four Spending Bills with Alaska Wins

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alaska Lisa Murkowski
    07.18.25
    Washington, DC – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), a senior member of the Appropriations Committee, voted to advance four bills for Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) that contain significant investments for Alaska. The four appropriations bills that passed committee are for Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies (AG); Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies (MilCon); Commerce, Justice, and Science and Related Agencies (CJS); and Legislative Branch (LEG). All were approved in committee, and will now advance to the Senate floor for consideration.
    “With crucial investments in affordable housing, infrastructure, public safety, and fisheries, we are addressing some of the most pressing challenges faced by Alaskans, and helping the sustainability and future of not only our communities, but our way of life. I am proud to fight for Alaskan priorities and ensure that our state’s needs are met,” said Senator Murkowski.
    HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE COMMERCE, JUSTICE, AND SCIENCE (CJS) APPROPRIATIONS BILL
    Supporting NOAA’s Mission in Alaska
    The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is a vital partner for the state of Alaska, leveraging partnerships at federal, state, local, and Tribal levels. NOAA provides everything from real time weather forecasts to fisheries monitoring, so that our communities are safe and our way of life is sustainable. To that end, Senator Murkowski prioritized ensuring the agency had programmatic support from the CJS Appropriations Bill to further advance their core missions in Alaska.
    One of the largest wins included $75 million for NOAA to recapitalize vessels, so that the fleet can continue to provide state-of-the-art weather forecasts and fisheries monitoring. The budget also included a $1 million increase for the Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS) Regional Observations, which directly supports Alaska’s Ocean Observing System.
    Wins for NOAA Fisheries that will support sustainable seafood harvesting and conserving habitat:
    $10 million increase for Fisheries Surveys to support the historical levels of Alaska trawl surveys and exploring shifting fish stocks
    $3.125 million for the Bycatch Reduction Engineering Program (BREP), an increase of $250,000. This program was established to develop improved fishing practices and gear technologies in the effort of reducing bycatch.
    $4 million for the Fishery Survey Contingency Fund, which was established through the U.S. Treasury to compensate Alaska fishermen for economic losses.
    $5.5 million increase for Salmon Management Activities, which will be used to support the production of 42 million hatchery fish, to help increase the harvest for Tribal, commercial, and recreational fisheries.
    $41.5 million for the Pacific Salmon Treaty, a $500K increase from last fiscal year. This funding will go towards joint United States/Canada management of salmon fishing to prevent over-fishing and provide for optimum harvest
    $58.4 million for Observers and Training, including $2 million for the North Pacific Observer Program. These programs are essential for the conservation and management of fisheries in the Bering Sea, Aleutian Island, and Gulf of Alaska
    Wins for NOAA Weather & Climate Monitoring Systems
    $5 million increase for the National Data Buoy Center (NDBC). The NDBC is a network of monitoring infrastructure that collects and analyzes real-time data to ensure maritime safety.
    $10 million increase for Analyze, Forecast, and Support – includes language supporting tsunami detection and response systems relevant to Alaska.
    Advancing Connectivity in Alaska
    Senator Murkowski has set herself apart with her focus on broadband infrastructure in Alaska, shepherding record investment to the state through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) of 2021. She continues to be a leader in the space, inserting report language in the Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program that acknowledges Alaska’s challenges with short construction seasons and logistics, laying the groundwork for future flexibility and support if needed. She also directed the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) to consider supplemental funding that would ensure rural and remote Tribal projects are completed.
    Promoting Public Safety in Alaska
    Public safety in Alaska is always foremost on Senator Murkowski’s mind—particularly in our rural communities. She used the CJS bill as a vehicle for direct investment towards advancing that goal. The bill includes an increase in funding for the Tribal Youth Program, which does everything from improvements to the juvenile justice system, invest in alcohol and substance abuse prevention programs, and offer mental health services for Tribal youth. She was able to secure a 5% Tribal Set-Aside in the Crime Victims Fund along with strong report language that supports Tribal flexibility and streamlined access. The Senator also included increased funding for Special Tribal Criminal Jurisdiction, with language supporting Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) efforts and improved Department of Justice (DOJ) grant coordination for Native communities. Additionally, the bill follows up on the Government Accountability Office (GAO) report on MMIW with a directive for immediate reporting.
    Alaska faces some of the highest rates of sexual assault per capita of any state, and Senator Murkowski was intent on using the CJS bill to address this crisis. She approved an almost tripling of the Sexual Assault Forensic Exam Grants funding, which will support training and resources for forensic examination of sexual assault survivors. The Senator also included report language directing the Office for Victims of Crime/Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention to support Alaska-specific Child Advocacy Centers.
    The bill also includes funding increases for Transitional Housing Assistance, Underserved Populations Program, Regional Information Sharing Systems, and Veterans Treatment Courts.
    Investing in Arctic Research
    As the leading expert in Congress on Arctic policy and polar affairs, Senator Murkowski uses her position to advance American priorities in the North. The bill provides $9.1 billion, just $60 million below the last enacted level – preserving support for critical Arctic scientific research despite tight fiscal constraints. Arctic research remains a priority, with the National Science Foundation (NSF) playing a key role in supporting long-term monitoring, infrastructure development, and partnerships with Alaska-based institutions and Indigenous communities.
    In addition to broader programmatic funding to help Alaskans, Murkowski was able to secure investments in this bill that are specific to local 17 Alaska communities or entities, projects that have been requested and prioritized by local governments and organizations:
    Anchorage: $305,000 to support the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force in Alaska so they can further advance their mission of catching child sexual predators
    Anchorage: $1.5 million for the University of Alaska Anchorage to acquire specialty equipment that will help propel the institution to be a leader in biotechnological innovation, leveraging Alaska’s Arctic environment
    Bethel: $70,000 for the purchase and installation of a new security system at the Bethel Police Department’s headquarters
    Cordova: $355,000 to update equipment for climate and ecosystem monitoring as part of a ten-year long study of the region
    Fairbanks: $1.5 million to develop drone-borne maritime lidar to count salmon.
    Statewide: $498,000 for the creation and deployment of a Mobile Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) that will provide coordinated care to survivors of sexual assault in rural communities where traditional, stationary services may not be readily available
    Southeast: $500,000 for Sealaska Heritage Institute to develop and implement a sustainable workforce development program to address growth in fisheries and ocean sciences in Southeast Alaska over the next ten years
    Ketchikan: $3 million to upgrade its radio communication system, which has been identified as an essential public safety need in the after-action plan following recent landslides to improve disaster response and community resilience
    Statewide: $2 million for the Alaska Fisheries Development Foundation to modernize and revitalize Alaska’s seafood industry by investing in processing innovation, workforce development, and infrastructure improvements.
    Statewide: $2.5 million for the North Pacific Research Board to investigate how ecosystem changes in the Northern Bering Sea influence species of commercial, ecological, and subsistence importance to inform local, state, and federal fisheries management
    Statewide: $1 million to help implement Next Generation 911, which will improve location accuracy and system resiliency for emergency call centers
    Statewide: $500,000 for the Bering Sea Fisherman’s Association to enable Tribes and Tribal organizations to participate as Cooperating Agencies in environmental analysis and management decisions made by federal agencies that affect subsistence resources.
    Statewide: $165,000 for the Alaska Ocean Observing System to purchase an Imaging Flow CytoBots (IFCBs) to continue monitoring for harmful algal blooms.
    Statewide: $1 million for Alaska Native Women’s Resource Center to support Tribes in implementing survivor-centered and trauma-informed programs in Tribal justice systems
    Statewide: $3.5 million for the Alaska Network on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault (ANDVSA) to support their mission of serving survivors of gender-based violence
    Unalaska: $3.5 million for the Bristol Bay Science and Research Institute to genetically analyze chum salmon from the pollock fishery bycatch in the Bering Sea to determine when and where Western Alaska chum salmon are being caught
    Valdez: $5.5 million to replace obsolete and failed emergency services communication towers and equipment
    HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE AGRICULTURE, RURAL DEVELOPMENT, FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, AND RELATED AGENCIES (AG) APPROPRIATIONS BILL
    Investments in housing and community development
    Affordable housing remains one of the most pressing challenges facing Alaska and our country. Senator Murkowski was intent on using the AG spending bill to address this challenge, particularly in rural communities where the cost of development remains prohibitively high. She supported $1.715 billion for the Rental Assistance Program, which will help low-income families around the country with for affordable rental housing in rural areas. She was able to secure $25 million for very low-income housing repair grants so that Alaskans can stay in their homes safely.
    Also included in the legislation was $1.25 billion for direct loans to improve critical infrastructure such as public safety buildings and community centers in rural communities.
    Updating Alaska’s clean water and utility infrastructure
    Senator Murkowski has made it her mission to ensure Alaska has the infrastructure to support daily life – no matter what community Alaskans’ call home. She was able to include $65 million for Rural Water and Waste Disposal Grants, and inserted report language that would prioritize Alaska Native communities. She also was able to secure $8 million for the High Energy Cost Grant Program, which assists energy providers in lowering energy costs for families with extremely high per-household energy costs.
    Bolstering food security and agriculture
    Senator Murkowski has been focused on bolstering Alaska’s food security for many years. She was able to secure a number of Alaska-specific wins, including:
    $5 million for Micro-Grants for Food Security, with report language prioritizing eligibility for reindeer herders, greenhouse growers, and hydroponic farmers
    $5 million for Alaska Native-Serving Institutions to promote equal access to education in rural Alaska and provide sustainable food and energy solutions for Alaska Native communities
    $3.5 million for the Geographically Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers Transportation Program, helping offset high freight costs for Alaskan producers
    $3 million for the FDPIR 638 Contracting Authority Pilot, with direction for the USDA to allow direct purchases of traditional foods directly from small indigenous producers
    $888.9 million for the Summer Food Service Program, with report language supporting the continued implementation of non-congregate meal service to ensure low-income students can eat while school is out
    $1.826 billion for Agricultural Research Service, with continued funding for research on cover crops and cereal grains for northern climates and permafrost regions
    In addition, the bill includes $80 million for The Emergency Food Assistance Program’s storage and distribution funding to ensure rural food banks can receive supplies; a $3 billion increase for Child Nutrition programs, including School Breakfast and School Lunch programs, and the Child and Adult Care Food Program, as well as a $603 million increase to fully fund Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). The bill also directs USDA to work with states, tribes, and local stakeholders to use federal nutrition dollars for the direct purchase of foods from local and regional producers for the various food assistance programs.
    In addition to programmatic funding to help Alaskans, Murkowski was able to secure investments in this bill that are specific for 10 Alaska communities, projects that have been requested and prioritized by local governments and organizations:
    Bethel: $605,000 to establish a permanent Food Bank and Pantry in Bethel
    Eagle: $750,000 for the construction of a fire hall/public safety building for the local fire department and Emergency Medical Services team
    Houston: $1.95 million for the construction of Public Works Facility so preventive maintenance can be performed on equipment
    Kenai: $2.045 million for the installation of telecommunications infrastructure to improve emergency response times and enhance public communications
    Nunapitchuk: $55,000 to develop a Preliminary Investigation Feasibility Report whether the Native Village of Nunapitchuk can pursue a community-wide relocation project in the Nunavakanukakslak Lake-Johnson River Watershed
    Petersburg: $225,000 to purchase emergency response equipment for the local fire department
    Statewide: $4.2 million for Alaska Municipal League to purchase heavy equipment for several communities designed to conduct road improvements and maintain infrastructure in rural Alaska
    Statewide: $750,000 to expand veterinary care in rural Alaska to prevent zoonotic disease outbreaks in communities off the road system
    Whittier: $310,000 for the removal and abatement of asbestos hazards in community housing where 85% of the city’s residents live
    Wrangell: $2.438 million to rehabilitate Wrangell’s Public Safety Building and Emergency Operations Center
    HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE MILITARY CONSTRUCTION, VETERANS AFFAIRS, AND RELATED AGENCIES (MILCON) APPROPRIATIONS BILL
    Ensuring Alaska’s military bases are state-of-the-art facilities
    Senator Murkowski is committed to supporting servicemembers in Alaska to ensure they have access to up-to-date resources as they protect and defend our nation, but also bolster their personal well-being as they adapt to life in Alaska. She secured over $400 million in programmatic funding for a Joint Integrated Testing and Training Center (JITTC) at JBER for the Air Force, a base supply complex at JBER for the Air National Guard, and a barracks at Fort Wainwright for the Army.
    Supporting Alaska’s veterans
    Senator Murkowski was able to secure funding for the construction of State Extended Care Facilities and Veterans Cemeteries. She also secured report language directing the VA to focus on benefits eligibility education for veterans who lack a direct road connection to a VA facility. She also secured her annual bill language to allow for care-sharing agreements between Federally Qualified Health Centers in the State of Alaska and Indian Tribes and Tribal organizations which are party to the Alaska Native Health Compact with the Indian Health Service. She made certain that the VA received full funding for mental health programs, telehealth programs, women veteran gender-specific care programs, homelessness programs, and for the Office of Rural Health.
    In addition to programmatic funding, Murkowski was able to secure investments in this bill that are specific for 3 of Alaska military installations, projects that have been requested and prioritized by the Department of Defense:
    JBER: $45 million to complete the runway extension project for the Air Force.
    Eielson Air Force Base: $6.7 million to finish planning and designing of a new permanent party dormitory for the Air Force.
    Fort Wainwright: $7.7 million to begin the planning and designing of a new dining facility for the Army.
    HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE LEGISLATIVE BRANCH (LEG) APPROPRIATIONS BILL
    Senator Murkowski inserted report language in the Legislative Branch FY26 Appropriations Act that incentivizes the Senate Dining Room and food-service facilities in the Capitol to source domestic seafood products, including wild-caught Alaska salmon.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Stein Surveys Flood Damage in Chapel Hill, Meets with Business Owners and North Carolinians Impacted by Tropical Storm Chantal

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Governor Stein Surveys Flood Damage in Chapel Hill, Meets with Business Owners and North Carolinians Impacted by Tropical Storm Chantal

    Governor Stein Surveys Flood Damage in Chapel Hill, Meets with Business Owners and North Carolinians Impacted by Tropical Storm Chantal
    lsaito

    Raleigh, NC

    Today Governor Josh Stein visited Chapel Hill to survey storm damage Tropical Storm Chantal caused and met with local officials, business owners, and North Carolinians who were affected by the storm. The Governor visited impacted businesses at Eastgate Crossing and apartments in Camelot Village.

    “As recovery and cleanup efforts continue, I am grateful to the local and state emergency responders for their work to help keep people safe during the flashfloods and in the aftermath of Chantal,” said Governor Josh Stein. “Whether it’s business owners at Eastgate Crossing or residents in Camelot Village, people are working hard to get back on their feet. We must do everything we can to support them and facilitate long-term recovery. And our hearts go out to the families who lost loved ones.”

    Tropical Storm Chantal hit central North Carolina on July 6, with some locations seeing as much as 9 to 12 inches of rain. The Haw River, the Eno River, and Jordan Lake, among others, experienced record or near-record water levels. Flooding impacted critical infrastructure and public and private property. 

    Since July 5, the State Emergency Response Team has been activated and engaged with local emergency managers and first responders, providing information, resources, and support. On July 16, Governor Stein declared a State of Emergency to facilitate state and federal recovery assistance.

    The Division of Emergency Management is working with local officials to assess the scope of damage caused by Tropical Storm Chantal. As the full damage assessment is completed in concert with relevant federal partners, the declaration along with the assessment analysis will determine possible additional support that residents, businesses, and local governments may receive to accelerate the recovery process and support expenses incurred during the response phase of the disaster. 

    Jul 18, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New weather radar for Nelson Tasman region

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government is funding MetService to procure a new Nelson Tasman weather radar to improve severe weather monitoring and response in the region, Associate Transport Minister James Meager has announced.  

    “Following the recent devastating weather events in Nelson Tasman, our focus has been on supporting the region’s recovery whilst looking for opportunities to better prepare the community for future disasters,” Mr Meager says.  

    “I’m pleased to confirm the Crown’s existing MetService contract will be varied to immediately begin the procurement of a new radar for the region. This is something the community has asked for, and it’s my hope the investment will give locals peace of mind over their individual and property safety in future events.

    “Weather radars play an incredibly important role in emergency management once an event starts. They allow forecasters to monitor the progression of a storm, refine short-term forecasts and warnings, and provide specific guidance to emergency managers about the distribution and intensity of rainfall.” 

    “Nelson Tasman has experienced several high-impact flooding events in recent years. Since 2011, there have been five states of emergency declared in the region,” Emergency Management and Recovery Minister Mark Mitchell says. 

    “Providing Nelson Tasman with a new weather radar will give emergency managers greater ability to monitor rainfall and flooding risk during a severe weather event, reducing the risk of loss of life and property.” 

    A new radar has a capital cost of up to $5 million and ongoing operating costs of approximately $800,000 per annum. Immediate work will begin using existing MetService funding.

    “In addition to the new weather radar, the Government has committed to strengthening the emergency management system to ensure it is fit for purpose to manage significant, widespread emergencies,” Mr Mitchell says.

    “Investments in modern technology and trained personnel, along with clear governance structures and assurance, will ensure faster, more effective emergency management.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General Announces Members of Independent Scientific Panel on Effects of Nuclear War

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    NEW YORK, 18 July (United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs) — On 17 July, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres announced the appointment of an independent scientific panel of experts tasked with examining the physical effects and societal consequences of a nuclear war on a local, regional and planetary scale in the days, weeks and decades following a nuclear war.

    The panel was established pursuant to General Assembly resolution 79/238, titled “Nuclear War Effects and Scientific Research”, and is mandated to examine “the physical effects and societal consequences” of a nuclear war “on a local, regional and planetary scale, including, inter alia, the climatic, environmental and radiological effects, and their impacts on public health, global socioeconomic systems, agriculture and ecosystems, in the days, weeks and decades following a nuclear war”.

    The panel is tasked with publishing a comprehensive report on these matters, making key conclusions, and identifying areas requiring future research.  The report will be considered by the UN General Assembly at its eighty-second session in 2027.

    The last cross-sectional United Nations study of this kind was undertaken almost four decades ago in 1988 (Study on the Climatic and Other Global Effects of Nuclear War, United Nations publication, Sales No. E.89.IX.1).

    The panel consists of 21 members drawn from a range of scientific fields, including:  nuclear and radiation studies; atmospheric sciences and climate; environment and environmental studies; agriculture, biology and life sciences; public health and medicine; and behavioural and social sciences and applied economics.

    As mandated by resolution 79/238, the Secretary-General selected members of the panel based on “their leading scientific expertise across relevant disciplines, while ensuring impartiality, and equitable geographical and gender balance”.  In selecting the panel, the Secretary-General drew on the expertise and recommendations of relevant agencies from the United Nations system.

    The panel will engage the widest possible range of stakeholders, including international and regional organizations, the International Committee of the Red Cross, civil society, affected communities, and peoples from around the world, in order to understand local, regional and global perspectives on the effects of nuclear war.  Member States, relevant international and regional organizations and others are encouraged to support the panel’s work.

    The independent Scientific Panel on the Effects of Nuclear War will consist of the following 21 members, each participating in their personal capacity:

    Arlene Alves dos Reis, Head, Division of Dosimetry at the Brazilian Nuclear Energy Commission (CNEN);

    Ana María Cetto Kramis, former Deputy Director General, International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).  Full research professor at the Physics Institute of the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM).  Founder and current holder of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Chair on Science Diplomacy and Heritage at UNAM;

    Manvendra K. Dubey, Senior Scientist and Fellow, Earth Systems Observations, Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL);

    Friederike Renate Friess, Senior Scientist, BOKU University, Department of Landscape, Water and Infrastructure, Institute of Safety and Risk Sciences;

    Abel Gonzalez, Senior Adviser to the Argentina Nuclear Regulatory Authority, Olenum member of the National Academy of Sciences of Buenos Aires, the Argentine Academy of Environmental Sciences, the Argentine Academy of the Seas, and the International Nuclear Energy Academy;

    Md Ahsan Habib, Professor at the Department of Chemistry, University of Dhaka, Fellow, Chinese Academy of Sciences;

    Andrew Haines, Professor of Environmental Change and Public Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), Co-Director World Health Organization (WHO) Collaborating Centre on Climate Change, Sustainable Development and Health;

    Gi Hoon Hong, former President and Research Professor, Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology;

    Togzhan Kassenova, Senior Fellow, Center for Policy Research, University at Albany, State University of New York, former member of the Secretary-General’s Advisory Board on Disarmament Matters (ABDM);

    Ausrele Kesminiene-Suonio, Senior Visiting Scientist, Environment and Lifestyle Epidemiology Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC/WHO), former head of the Lithuanian Chernobyl Medical Centre;

    Peter Klimek, Director of the Supply Chain Intelligence Institute, Austria, Associate Professor, Section for Science of Complex Systems, Medical University of Vienna;

    Karina Meredith, Director of Environment Research and Technology at Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO), Adjunct Professor in the Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences school at University of New South Wales;

    Thobela Nkukwana, Senior Lecturer, University of Pretoria, Sub-editor for the South African Journal of Animal Sciences, Editorial Board member and Sub-editor of Welwitschia International Journal of Agricultural Sciences;

    Sébastien Philippe, research scholar at the Princeton University Program on Science and Global Security, member of the Scientific Advisory Group of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons;

    Laura Revell, Associate Professor in Atmospheric Chemistry at the University of Canterbury, member of the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) Environmental Effects Assessment Panel (EEAP) panel;

    Neil Rowan, Professor, Faculty of Science and Technological Health, University of the Shannon, Adjunct Professor to the School of Medicine, Nursing and Biomedical Science at the University of Galway;

    Rabia Sa’id, Professor of atmospheric and space-weather physics and a researcher at Bayero University Kano, Co-founder of Nigeria’s Association of Women Physicists;

    Georgiy L. Stenchikov, Professor Emeritus at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Professor of Earth Sciences, Division of Physical Sciences and Engineering, Earth Sciences and Engineering Program, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology;

    Masao Tomonaga, Emeritus Director, Atomic Bomb Hospital, former Director of the Japanese Red Cross Nagasaki Atomic Bomb (Genbaku) Hospital, President of Nagasaki Prefecture Hibakusha Association and current President of IPPNW Nagasaki Branch.  A hibakusha from Nagasaki;

    Hüseyin Yalçinkaya, Anakara University Institute of Medical Sciences, Department of Animal Nutrition and Nutritional Diseases, Veterinary Officer at the Turkish Directorate General for Food and Control/Department of Border Control for Animal and Animal Products; and

    Zhao Wuwen, Professor at the Center for Strategic Studies, China Academy of Engineering Physics.

    Questions regarding the panel can be addressed to:  nweffectspanel@un.org.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Empowering Women through Clean Energy: African Development Bank Launches Country Diagnostics to Accelerate Inclusive Energy Transitions

    Source: APO – Report:

    .

    In a significant step toward advancing inclusive climate solutions, the African Development Bank (www.AfDB.org), in partnership with the Climate Investment Funds (CIF) (https://apo-opa.co/44PhRQI), has launched the Gender and Renewable Energy Country Diagnostics (https://apo-opa.co/3GXAwSi)—a pivotal initiative exploring the nexus between gender equity and energy access in six African countries: Ghana (https://apo-opa.co/450VUOL), Liberia (https://apo-opa.co/44DKrFW), Mali (https://apo-opa.co/44ZZLM5), Lesotho (https://apo-opa.co/3GTIKeb), Madagascar (https://apo-opa.co/46jgk7Q), and Malawi (https://apo-opa.co/46dH5KX).

    Commissioned by the Bank under CIF’s Scaling Up Renewable Energy Program, the diagnostics provide evidence-based, country-specific recommendations to enhance women’s leadership, financial inclusion, and participation in Africa’s clean energy economy. Focusing on localized, actionable solutions, the reports identify opportunities to embed gender considerations into national energy planning, investment strategies, and policy frameworks. They also propose inclusive financing models that de-risk women-led energy enterprises and highlight the need for capacity-building efforts to strengthen technical skills, entrepreneurial readiness, and leadership among women in the renewable energy sector.

    The findings were officially unveiled at a virtual launch event on 30 June 2025, hosted by the Bank’s Climate Change and Green Growth Department and Gender and Women Empowerment Division. The event brought together stakeholders from government, civil society, the private sector, and development institutions, underscoring a strong regional commitment to gender-equitable and resilient energy transitions.

    Opening the event, Al Hamndou Dorsouma, Manager of the Climate Change and Green Growth, reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to a just and inclusive energy transition. “Gender equality is a source of serious innovation and sustainable growth,” he stated, emphasizing the need to translate diagnostic findings into concrete reforms, strengthening institutional coordination, and gender-responsive business and financing mechanisms. He noted that the initiative directly responds to growing country-level demand for stronger gender integration in energy strategies, building on earlier successes in East Africa.

    Nathalie Gahunga, Manager of the Gender and Women Empowerment Division, closed the event with a compelling call to action. She urged governments, development partners, NGOs, financiers, and the private sector to turn the data into transformative investments, innovative programs, and inclusive policy reforms. “The real work begins now,” she declared, calling for cross-sector collaboration to remove structural barriers and unlock women’s full participation in Africa’s green economy.

    Fewstancia Munyaradzi, Executive Director of Rand Sandton Consulting Group (www.RandSandton.com), presented a consolidated action plan focused on closing financing gaps, building institutional capacity, and integrating gender-responsive approaches into energy policy and project design.

    At the African Development Bank, gender integration is a core priority. Gender considerations are mainstreamed in 100 percent of the Bank’s climate operations—from design through implementation. These diagnostics reflect that commitment, providing practical tools to help countries operationalize gender equality in energy planning and programming.

    As Africa advances on its path to energy transformation, diagnostics are now available to guide gender-responsive policy and investment decisions across the continent. They affirm that gender inclusion is not only a development imperative but a cornerstone of sustainable, resilient progress.

    This new effort builds on the Bank’s earlier collaboration with the Climate Investment Funds in 2020, which produced Gender and Sustainable Energy Access country briefs for Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda (https://apo-opa.co/46MLNiY). Those briefs guided gender-sensitive energy interventions and highlighted the importance of sex-disaggregated data, national-level engagement, and context-specific recommendations.

    To review the Country Diagnostic Studies on Gender and Renewable Energy, click here (https://apo-opa.co/3GXAwSi):

    Ghana
    (https://apo-opa.co/450VUOL)

    Liberia
    (https://apo-opa.co/44DKrFW)

    Mali
    (https://apo-opa.co/44ZZLM5)

    Lesotho
    (https://apo-opa.co/3GTIKeb)

    Madagascar
    (https://apo-opa.co/46jgk7Q)

    Malawi
    (https://apo-opa.co/46dH5KX)

    – on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

    Media Contact:
    Sonia Borrini
    Climate Change & Green Growth Department
    s.borrini@afdb.org

    About the African Development Bank Group:
    The African Development Bank Group is Africa’s premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 41 African countries with an external office in Japan, the Bank contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states. For more information: www.AfDB.org

    MIL OSI Africa –