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  • MIL-Evening Report: Clues left by the Alpine Fault’s last big quake reveal its direction – this will help NZ prepare for the inevitable next rupture

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jesse Kearse, Postdoctoral Researcher in Seismology, Kyoto University

    Kate Clark, CC BY-SA

    One of the world’s most anticipated earthquakes is the next major surface rupture of the Alpine Fault in the South Island of New Zealand.

    With a 75% chance of it happening within the next 50 years, there is justified interest in the likely magnitude, extent and intensity of ground shaking and impacts on the landscape, infrastructure and buildings.

    A key – and so far unanswered – question is which direction the fault rupture will take.

    Our new research reveals for the first time that the Alpine Fault ruptured from south to north in the great magnitude 8+ earthquake of 1717.

    We developed our technique to determine rupture direction based on the Kekerengu Fault after the 2016 Kaikōura earthquake. But our method is globally applicable for use in realistic earthquake scenarios and thus can contribute to better societal preparedness.

    In an Alpine Fault earthquake, there’s no direction that’s good news for the West Coast of the South Island. But a north-to-south rupture would send excess seismic energy into the relatively unpopulated region of Fiordland and the Tasman Sea.

    A south-to-north rupture on the other hand is forecast to cause higher intensity shaking in the populated regions of Canterbury, Marlborough, Tasman and the northern West Coast.

    A simulation of the shaking of a south-to-north earthquake along the Alpine Fault. Credit: Brendon Bradley, University of Canterbury.

    In the Kaikōura earthquake, Wellingtonians experienced this influence of rupture direction on shaking intensity. The south-to-north rupture meant more seismic energy was focused towards the capital city than, for example, Christchurch.

    So, while rupture direction has been observed to make a big difference in modern earthquakes, it is not something geologists have been able to directly determine for past earthquakes.

    Markings in the rock face

    The Kaikōura earthquake was well documented by seismographs. We know it started near Waiau in the south and travelled northwards to Cook Strait over a period of two minutes.

    We observed markings that were scratched onto the fault plane. Like coarse sandpaper against wood, these scratches, or “slickenlines”, record movement as rock faces slipped past each other during the earthquake. Some of these markings were curved, and our method can tell us the direction the earthquake rupture was travelling.

    Slickenlines from the Kekerengu Fault, taken days after the 2016 Kaikōura earthquake.
    Kate Clark, CC BY-SA

    Using computer models to simulate how the earthquake unfolded moment by moment, we were able to replicate the curved slickenlines observed in the field and relate them to rupture direction. This gave us the framework we needed to investigate rupture direction for past earthquakes on the Alpine Fault.

    The Alpine Fault hasn’t had a major surface rupture since 1717. During field work, we visited three sites along the fault and examined natural outcrops, carefully exposing the fault plane using hand tools. We found 146 slickenlines, 30 of which were curved.

    Geologist Tim Little measuring slickenlines on the Alpine Fault.
    Nic Barth, CC BY-SA

    The curved geometry of slickenlines from the Alpine Fault’s most recent earthquake indicated it had travelled from the south towards the north. We also found evidence for rupturing in the opposite direction, suggesting that earthquakes can start both north and south.

    On one outcrop, we found evidence of slickenlines from multiple earthquakes – a rare and tantalising find suggesting development of a longer history of rupture direction may be possible.

    The technique we’ve applied is a novel, on-fault observational method for determining past rupture directions. Its full potential is yet to be tested, but already it’s applicable to faults worldwide.

    Our research shows that the last Alpine Fault rupture was from the south, and that both directions are possible. New information about past earthquakes like this helps the scientific community produce realistic scenarios for the next major earthquake.

    We now have direct evidence from the fault itself that we need to prepare for the scenario of very strong to severe shaking for the northern West Coast, Tasman, Marlborough and Canterbury regions in the next major Alpine Fault earthquake.

    Jesse Kearse receives funding from the Royal Society Te Apārangi.

    Nicolas Barth receives funding from the Royal Society Te Apārangi.

    – ref. Clues left by the Alpine Fault’s last big quake reveal its direction – this will help NZ prepare for the inevitable next rupture – https://theconversation.com/clues-left-by-the-alpine-faults-last-big-quake-reveal-its-direction-this-will-help-nz-prepare-for-the-inevitable-next-rupture-240879

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Federal Assistance for Hurricane Helene Exceeds $344 Million as FEMA Expands Dual Response Efforts as Hurricane Milton Forecast to Make Landfall This Evening

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Federal Assistance for Hurricane Helene Exceeds $344 Million as FEMA Expands Dual Response Efforts as Hurricane Milton Forecast to Make Landfall This Evening

    Federal Assistance for Hurricane Helene Exceeds $344 Million as FEMA Expands Dual Response Efforts as Hurricane Milton Forecast to Make Landfall This Evening

    WASHINGTON – FEMA, under the direction of the Biden-Harris Administration, continues to lead a comprehensive, whole-of-government approach to assist communities impacted by Hurricane Helene. As of October 9, federal disaster assistance for survivors has surpassed $344 million and has reached 375,000 households.

    More than 8,000 federal workers from all parts of the country are supporting the response efforts in six states and three Tribal Nations for both Hurricanes Helene and Milton. As the agency prepares for Hurricane Milton’s impacts to Florida, these assets remain in partnership with state, tribal and local partners to support of Hurricane Milton recovery efforts to ensure every available resource is mobilized.

    Hurricane Helene Response

    The agency is actively working alongside state, local and tribal partners to assess damage and support those affected by Helene. To date, FEMA has shipped over 17 million meals, nearly 14 million liters of water and 210 generators. 

    FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams are on the ground meeting with survivors in neighborhoods across the affected states to help them apply for assistance and connect them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources. 

    Disaster survivors in designated areas of Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia can begin their recovery process by applying for federal assistance through FEMA. People with damage to their homes or personal property who live in these areas should apply for assistance, which may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. 

    Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay. Homeowners and renters with damage to their home or personal property from previous disasters—whether they received FEMA funds or not—are still eligible to apply for and receive assistance for Helene.   

    Those with access to power and cellular service can apply for FEMA assistance in one of three ways:  

    FEMA reminds survivors who applied for assistance that a letter from FEMA saying they’re ineligible for assistance may not be a final decision. If you believe your application was not approved in error, or if you have additional information that could strengthen your claim, you may appeal the decision. To learn more, visit http://www.fema.gov/fact-sheet/fema-answers-appeals-process-qa.

    Voluntary Organizations

    Voluntary agencies are supporting all affected states by providing critical feeding operations and support for survivors with hot and prepared meals and shelf-stable meals. Organizations are also providing personnel and resources to the hardest hit areas. The American Red Cross has hundreds of trained disaster workers providing comfort and operating shelters. 

    Survivors can receive free services like cutting fallen trees, tarping roofs and mitigating mold with the help of Crisis Cleanup by calling 844-965-1386. The hotline is open through Oct. 11 and can connect survivors with volunteers from local relief organizations, community groups and the faith-based community who may be able to assist.  

    Additional support and assistance provided to each state includes: 

    Support for Florida  

    Recovery efforts from Hurricane Helene continue in Florida even as the federal government is supporting the state in preparing for Hurricane Milton’s landfall on the Gulf Coast. FEMA has approved approximately $142 million for nearly 49,000 households impacted by Hurricane Helene. FEMA specialists are canvassing Florida communities affected by Helene to help survivors apply for assistance. Additionally, FEMA inspectors are visiting applicants’ homes to verify disaster-caused damage.

    There are more than 90 Disaster Survivor Assistance members going into neighborhoods and 10 Disaster Recovery Centers are open where they may speak to state and federal personnel to help with their recovery. Survivors may find their closest center by visiting FEMA.gov/DRC.

    Residents in need of information or resources should call the State Assistance Information Line (SAIL) at 800-342-3557. English, Spanish and Creole speakers are available to answer questions.  

    Residents can find additional resources and information at Florida Division of Emergency Management’s website, FloridaDisaster.org. 

    Support for Georgia 

    FEMA has approved over $59 million for nearly 76,000 households. 

    There are more than 120 Disaster Survivor Assistance members going into neighborhoods and one Disaster Recovery Center is open where they may speak to state and federal personnel to help with their recovery. Survivors may find their closest center by visiting FEMA.gov/DRC.

    Resources: Residents can find resources like shelters and feeding sites at Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency. 

    Support for North Carolina

    Financial Support: FEMA has approved approximately $60 million in housing and other types of assistance for nearly 52,000 households.

    Staffing: As response efforts continue in North Carolina, more than 1,000 FEMA staff are on the ground, with more arriving daily. Nearly 400 Urban Search and Rescue personnel remain in the field helping people. These teams have rescued or supported over 3,200 survivors to date. There are over 1,200 Department of Defense personnel supporting the response. Experienced FEMA leaders from around the country are in the field to bolster response efforts. 

    Sheltering: Shelter numbers continue to decline, with 17 shelters housing just more than 700 occupants. Over 2,600 people who cannot return home are staying in safe and clean lodging through FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance program. Transitional Sheltering Assistance is available for North Carolinians displaced by Helene. Residents in declared counties who have applied for disaster assistance may be eligible to stay temporarily in a hotel or motel paid for by FEMA while they work on their long-term housing plan. People do not need to request this assistance. FEMA will notify them of their eligibility through an automated phone call, text message and/or email, depending upon the method of communication they selected at the time of application for disaster assistance. 

    Power and Cellular Restoration: As of today, power was restored to more than more than 90% of originally reported power outages have been restored as a result of approximately 8,000 crew on the ground. Cellular restoration continues to improve, with more than 90% of cellular sites operating. FEMA is boosting response coordination by providing 40 Starlink units to ensure first responders can communicate with each other. 

    Commodities: Commodity distribution, mass feeding, and hydration operations are underway in areas of western North Carolina. FEMA commodity shipments are enroute to support operations. Voluntary organizations are supporting feeding operations with bulk food and water deliveries coming via truck and aircraft. Mobile feeding operations are reaching survivors in heavily impacted areas, including three mass feeding sites in Buncombe, McDowell and Watauga counties. 

    The Salvation Army has 20 mobile feeding units supporting the massive operation and has provided emotional and spiritual care to survivors. To date, the American Red Cross is engaging in targeted distribution of emergency supplies in low-income communities with high levels of minor or affected residential damage. 

    Resources: 

    • Residents can visit: ncdps.gov/helene to get information and additional assistance.  
    • Residents can get in touch with loved ones by calling 2-1-1 or visiting unitedwaync.org to add them to search and rescue efforts.  
    • There are more than 300 Disaster Survivor Assistance members going into neighborhoods to connect with survivors without cell coverage or power.

    Support for South Carolina 

    In South Carolina, FEMA has approved over $77 million for nearly 97,000 households. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams are on the ground in neighborhoods across the affected counties continuing to help survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connect them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources. 

    There are nearly 50 Disaster Survivor Assistance members going into neighborhoods to connect with survivors without cell coverage or power.

    Residents with questions on Helene can call the state’s toll-free hotline, open 24 hours a day, at 866-246-0133. 

    Residents who are dependent on medical equipment at home and who are without power due to Helene may be eligible for a medical needs shelter. Call the state’s Department of Public Health Care Line at 855-472-3432 for more information. 

    Residents can find additional information at South Carolina Emergency Management Division’s website.

    Support for Tennessee 

    FEMA has approved more than $5.1 million for disaster assistance for over 900 households. 

    Residents can call 800-824-3463 to report a missing person. Callers should be prepared to provide as much information as possible including names, phone numbers, vehicle identification and last known whereabouts.  

    There are more than 20 Disaster Survivor Assistance members going into neighborhoods to connect with survivors without cell coverage or power.

    Counties continue to establish donation centers. For the evolving list, visit Tennessee Emergency Management Agency’s website. 

    Support for Virginia  

    To date, FEMA has approved over $1.3 million for over 700 households. 

    There are about 30 Disaster Survivor Assistance members going into neighborhoods to connect with survivors without cell coverage or power.

    mashana.davis

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Disaster Recovery Center in Independence, Va. Will Open Oct. 10

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Disaster Recovery Center in Independence, Va. Will Open Oct. 10

    Disaster Recovery Center in Independence, Va. Will Open Oct. 10

    BRISTOL, Va.– A Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) will be opening in Grayson County at 578 East Main Street in Independence, Va., tomorrow, Thursday, Oct. 10, at 8 a.m.

    The center is located at:

    Grayson County  

    Guynn Shopping Center

    578 East Main Street 

    Suite B

    Independence, VA 24348

    Hours of operation:

    Monday – Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

    Closed Sundays

    Disaster survivors can visit any DRC to receive assistance. Additional centers will be opening in the coming weeks throughout southwest Virginia.

    Survivors do not have to visit a DRC to register with FEMA. You can call 800-621-FEMA (3362). The toll-free telephone line operates seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. You can also register online at DisasterAssistance.gov or through the FEMA App on your phone.

    The deadline to apply for FEMA disaster assistance is Dec. 2, 2024.

    If you have received a letter from FEMA about your application status, visit a DRC to learn more about next steps. DRC staff can help you submit additional information or supporting documentation for FEMA to continue to process your application and answer any questions you may have.

    FEMA staff assisting survivors on Oct. 7, 2024, at the Disaster Recovery Center in Damascus, Va. (FEMA photo by Nicholas Monteleone)

    FEMA has set up a rumor response webpage to clarify our role in the Helene response. Visit Hurricane Helene: Rumor Response.

    For more information on Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit vaemergency.gov, the Virginia Department of Emergency Management Facebook page , fema.gov/disaster/4831 and facebook.com/FEMA.  

    ###

    FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia. Follow us on X at x.com/FEMAregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3.

    To apply for FEMA assistance, please call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362, visit https://www.disasterassistance.gov/, or download and apply on the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages). Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status.

    erika.osullivan

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: Pressley Celebrates Signing of Massachusetts Liquor License Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07)

    Pressley Championed, Helped Enact Landmark Reforms as a Boston City Councilor in 2014

    Video (YouTube)

    BOSTON – Today, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) celebrated the enactment of state legislation to authorize additional liquor licenses in Boston and delivered remarks at a ceremonial bill signing at the Massachusetts State House. As a Boston City Councilor, Pressley championed and helped enact the last major liquor license reform in 2014.

    “Restaurants are the economic, social, and cultural anchors of our streets and every Bostonian deserves the chance to realize the fundamental idea that this city and all its blessings belong to each of us. Today’s signing of legislation to reform Massachusetts’ archaic liquor license laws—and build upon the reforms we enacted in 2014—gives our restauranteurs and our communities a chance to enjoy an equitable opportunity to build community and wealth—from Hyde Park to East Boston from Dorchester to Jamaica Plain and all across the city.

    “When I authored the home rule petition to lift the cap as a Boston City Councilor a decade ago, I was hopeful it would set a new floor for future reform, and I am so proud to see that playing out today. Thank you to Senator Liz Miranda, Rep. Chris Worrell, Councilor Brian Worrell, Governor Maura Healey and every restauranteur and advocate who invested the sweat equity that made today possible. Today, we raise a figurative drink to this achievement and look forward to tomorrow to actualize the potential of this legislation.”

    During her time on the Boston City Council, Pressley championed legislation to overhaul the liquor license process in Boston by eliminating the cap on liquor licenses and returning control over licensing to the city. In 2014, in partnership with then-Boston Mayor Marty Walsh, her City Council colleagues, and the Massachusetts Legislature, Pressley’s reforms returned the Boston Licensing Board to the City of Boston and created 75 new liquor licenses to be distributed across the city.

    In 2017, Pressley and Walsh announced a new proposal to grant the City of Boston additional liquor licenses as part of an ongoing effort to attract new businesses and restaurants, encourage expansion of current establishments, and support Boston’s growing economy.

    A transcript of Rep. Pressley’s remarks is below, and the full video is available here.

    TRANSCRIPT: Pressley Celebrates Signing of Massachusetts Liquor License Reform Bill

    October 9, 2024

    Boston, Massachusetts

    Governor, I have to say that, you know, because there are so many people here today, it’s easy to have oversights, and if there are any more, know that it’s an error of the head and not the heart.

    But I would say that it is incredibly heartening that there are so many people here. This was not always the case on this issue. Many people saw this is a third-rail issue. There were a lot of people that were happy with an unjust status quo.

    10 years ago, when I was an At-Large Boston City Councilor and Chair of the Committee on Healthy Women, Families and Communities, making the case that walkable amenities, that restaurants, had something to do with healthy communities. That it was about public health and public safety, social and economic mobility. These critical anchors.

    And so to stand here today, President Spilka, I have to say, it feels good to be in the Massachusetts Seventh. It feels good to be home.

    It feels good to be in Boston as we celebrate the signing of game-changing legislation to reform our archaic liquor license laws to give our restaurateurs and our communities a chance to enjoy in equity and opportunity to build community and to build wealth.

    It never gets old. I feel just as hopeful as I did 10 years ago, when we were here with Governor Deval Patrick, when we signed the economic development bill that included our first bite at reforming this antiquated, unjust liquor licensing system.

    Governor Patrick signed that after we had worked for four-and-a-half years with two mayors: Mayor Menino—this was the last action on his desk—Mayor Menino and Mayor Walsh. So if we could just acknowledge both of those mayors and Governor Patrick.

    I was proud to lead that effort as an At-Large Boston City Councilor. It’s a beautiful thing to be able to celebrate with Governor Healey as we take the next step towards economic justice for all of Boston’s neighborhoods.

    Are you tired of making history yet? You keep doing it. Okay.

    The legislators in this room: Councilor Brian Worrell, Representative Chris Worrell, State Senator Liz Miranda. When I say that they have poured their blood, sweat, and legislative capital into making today a reality, it was not easy.

    But this is a glorious day. It is so rare, as a lawmaker, when you plant a seed that you can see it bear its fruit in your lifetime. So this is an incredible, incredible day.

    When I first raised this issue a decade ago, we knew that reforming a century-old system designed to strip Boston of the flexibility to raise or lower the cap on liquor licenses was a long, difficult and politically risky process.

    But we showed what was possible when we bring together a diverse coalition of existing and aspiring restauranteurs, economic justice advocates, and community members who recognize the need to disrupt an unjust status quo and address the disparity in neighborhood sit-down restaurants.

    I am proud of the cultural and economic impact that our liquor license reform has had since passing in 2014. The impact has been undeniable in the restaurants that have been able to open, remain open, and become staples of their respective neighborhoods.

    And for the entrepreneurs and workers who have found opportunities that were previously closed to them—and take it from me, there is simply no better feeling than traveling this incredible city from Hyde Park to East Boston, Dorchester, Jamaica Plain, Roxbury—seeing the fruits of that labor and new neighborhood restaurants.

    Restaurants are the economic, social and cultural anchors of our streets. They incentivize foot traffic. They feed our bodies and our souls. They create space for us to celebrate and to grieve the milestones of life. And the folks up here know that every single Bostonian deserves the chance to do that in the community they call home.

    10 years ago, I was hopeful that our liquor license reform would set a new floor for future reform as we saw today. It is a joy to celebrate this new legislation, which gives us the chance to realize that fundamental idea that this city, in all its blessings, belong to all of us.

    And now we know that even a historic day like today is not a magic wand. We’re all committed to putting in the work to make sure this game-changing legislation has the transformative and equitable impact we all know it can.

    So while we continue to do the work to break down barriers to entry, like disparate access to capital, the shortage of built out commercial space for restaurants in our communities, the importance of today cannot be underestimated or understated.

    So let’s raise a figurative drink to today’s achievement, roll up our sleeves tomorrow, to actualize the potential of this game-changing legislation.

    And with that, I’m proud to introduce my sister-in-service, who speaks the same love language that I do—policy—lead of this historic piece of legislation, State Senator Liz Miranda.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: BNZ to provide Confirmation of Payee to customers in November

    Source: BNZ statements

    BNZ will be one of the first New Zealand banks to provide Confirmation of Payee when it rolls out the service at the end of November.

    “At BNZ we’re continuously looking for new ways to help protect customers from scammers,” says BNZ CEO Dan Huggins.

    “We’re pleased to be able to deliver Confirmation of Payee as quickly as possible after it becomes available in New Zealand, adding it to the suite of tools to help our customers be safer online.”

    BNZ’s other recent anti-scam features include:
    • An ‘online banking lock’ feature in the BNZ banking app which allows customers to disable all internet banking and BNZ mobile app activity and lock access to their accounts if they suspect a scammer has gained access to their online accounts.
    • Additional two-factor authentication (2FA) within internet banking for high-risk actions such as changing personal contact details, creating a new payee, editing an existing payee, or making payments to unsaved payees. This is required regardless of whether a customer has already completed 2FA in their current session.

    Confirmation of Payee will provide BNZ customers with an extra level of assurance when making payments from one bank account to another within New Zealand.

    It will help customers be confident that they are paying who they think they are before the payment is made, which will help reduce payment errors and stop some instances of scams and fraud.

    From next week, BNZ will start contacting customers to let them know Confirmation of Payee is coming, what it is and how it will work.

    “BNZ invests tens of millions of dollars in scam, fraud and anti-money laundering protection each year. As always, we encourage our customers to get in touch with us straight away if they think they may be being scammed,” says Huggins.

    The post BNZ to provide Confirmation of Payee to customers in November appeared first on BNZ Debrief.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Johnson Leads Delegation Letter Demanding EPA Regulate BioLab Chemicals

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Hank Johnson (GA-04)

    U.S. Senators Ossoff, Warnock, and Reps. Scott, McBath, Williams Join Johnson in Urging EPA To Enhance Federal Oversight of Facilities That Manufacture and/or Store Hazardous Chemical TCCA.

    CONYERS, GA – Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04), along with U.S. Sens. Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock and U.S. House Reps. David Scott (GA-13), Lucy McBath (GA-07) and Nikema Williams (GA-05), sent a letter to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael Regan today urging him to enhance federal oversight of facilities that manufacture and/or store the hazardous chemical Trichloroisocyanuric Acid (TCCA), which is at the heart of the incident at the BioLab plant in Conyers – an environmental and health crisis that has been ongoing since Sept. 29.  

    “We are concerned that facilities like BioLab Conyers, which manufacture and/or store TCCA are improperly managing these substances,” the lawmakers wrote. “When not handled correctly, these chemicals can contaminate local air, water, and soil, posing severe public health risks which include respiratory issues, skin irritations, and long-term conditions like lung and heart disease.”

    Specifically, the lawmakers urge the EPA to “include it on the list of regulated substances under the Risk Management Program (RMP),” which would prompt federal and state agencies to develop more effective safety protocols and management strategies, ensuring stricter adherence to safety standards for facilities handling this chemical.

    “The gravity of this situation underscores the need for changes to the federal and state regulatory systems.”

    Lawmakers are also requesting the agency respond to nine key questions surrounding the reactive chemical in question. 

    Read the letter HERE or below. 

    The Honorable Michael Regan 
    Administrator 
    U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 
    1200 Pennsylvania Avenue NW 
    Washington, DC 20460

    Dear Administrator Regan,

    We are writing to urge the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to take immediate action to enhance federal oversight of facilities that manufacture and/or store the hazardous chemical Trichloroisocyanuric Acid (TCCA). 

    On September 29, 2024, just after Hurricane Helene slammed the area, a catastrophic chemical fire took place at the BioLab facility in Conyers, Georgia, that stores TCCA. The fire released a large, billowing plume of hazardous, toxic gasses into the air, which caused the closure of parts of Interstate 20 for nearly 17 hours, with local businesses and government offices forced to close while 17,000 residents living near the plant were forced to evacuate.   

    As of today, toxic substances continue to rise into the air from the smoldering ruins of the plant, with corporate and government officials being unable to offer a specific timetable as to when the danger will end.   People not just in the immediate vicinity of the plant but also millions across southeastern metropolitan Atlanta are under constant exposure to hazardous air quality. This incident has raised serious concerns about the community’s vulnerability to toxic chemical exposure. The danger is heightened by approaching rain which will douse the collapsed building under which millions of pounds of TCCA remain exposed to moisture.

    BioLab, a division of KIK Consumer Products, manufactures and stores millions of pounds of chemical mixtures primarily composed of TCCA at the Conyers, Georgia facility. When TCCA comes into contact with small amounts of water, a hazardous chemical reaction is triggered that generates heat and causes decomposition of the chemical and can in turn produces toxic chlorine gas and can also produce explosive nitrogen trichloride. The Conyers BioLab facility has experienced three separate chemical incidents in the past seven years, four in the past 20. Each event resulted in dangerous chemical reactions and fires, releasing toxic gases like chlorine into the air. 

    There have been conflicting reports on what caused the most recent fire at the Conyers facility. One report cited water used to douse a fire on the roof of the plant seeping in, while another report blames the fire on a malfunctioning sprinkler system. Rainwater from Hurricane Helene seeping into the BioLab facility during and after Hurricane Helene has not been ruled out as a cause as well. 

    We are concerned that facilities like BioLab Conyers, which manufacture and/or store TCCA are improperly managing these substances. When not handled correctly, these chemicals can contaminate local air, water, and soil, posing severe public health risks which include respiratory issues, skin irritations, and long-term conditions like lung and heart disease.

    A similar incident occurred on August 27, 2020, at the Lake Charles BioLab facility in Westlake, Louisiana, in the aftermath of Hurricane Laura. The facility sustained severe damage after TCCA manufactured and stored therein was moistened by small amounts of water and decomposed, producing toxic chlorine gas and nitrogen trichloride. These gases ignited, causing a fire and noxious clouds of toxic gases. The U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazardous Investigation Board (CSB) investigated the incident and issued safety recommendations to minimize the consequences of future accidental chemical releases like the Lake Charles incident. 

    The 2023 (CSB) report on BioLab Lake Charles found a regulatory gap regarding the oversight of chemicals like TCCA, particularly in their classification and management under existing federal regulations. Given TCCA’s involvement in multiple safety incidents due to its highly reactive properties, we urge the EPA to include it on the list of regulated substances under the Risk Management Program (RMP). 

    This action will prompt federal and state agencies to develop more effective safety protocols and management strategies, ensuring stricter adherence to safety standards for facilities handling this chemical. We hope the Conyers debacle will prompt the inclusion of TCCA to the Process Safety Management (PSM) Standard under the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

    We call on the EPA to collaborate with states to implement training programs specifically designed for emergency responders and facility staff. These programs should address the unique challenges posed by reactive chemicals that adversely react to water used to extinguish fires, focusing on appropriate firefighting techniques, chemical behavior, and risk assessment. The EPA, in partnership with state fire marshals and chemical safety experts, can establish comprehensive guidelines for fire suppression techniques tailored to reactive chemicals, including recommendations for effective alternative extinguishing agents, such as dry chemical extinguishers or foam.

    Considering these concerns, we respectfully request clarification by November 20, 2024, on the following matters regarding regulatory oversight and preventative measures at chemical facilities like BioLab:

    1.    Has the EPA, in conjunction with the State of Georgia, initiated any investigations or inspections regarding BioLab Conyers’     
    2.    What immediate actions are the EPA and State agencies taking in response to this latest fire, given the history of public safety      concerns at the Conyers facility?
    3.    The 2023 Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB) found that TCCA and TCCA-based formulations are not            covered by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Process Safety Management (PSM) Standard. Has there been any progress in addressing     this regulatory gap?
    4.     Following the BioLab Conyers incident is the EPA considering adding TCCA to the list of regulated substances under the Risk     Management Program (RMP)?
    5.    How is the EPA collaborating with state agencies to ensure that chemical facilities like BioLab Conyers are prepared for extreme     weather events that could worsen fire hazards or hazardous material spills?
    6.    In response to BioLab Conyers’ repeated safety failures, what specific measures will the EPA implement with state agencies to improve fire preparedness protocols, particularly for training facility staff and local emergency responders on handling fires involving non-water extinguishable substances?
    7.    Does the EPA anticipate monitoring potential groundwater, soil, and water contamination from the chemical fire at the Conyers BioLab facility?
    8.    We understand that the EPA is working to monitor air quality following the chemical fire. What steps has the EPA taken to inform     affected communities of their findings and recommendations to safeguard the health and safety of these communities and their environment? 
    a.    How have the locations and spatial extent of the EPA’s air quality monitoring area changed as the location and direction of the smoke plume has shifted? 
    9.    What specific additional authority and resources does the EPA need to effectively prevent future incidents at chemical facilities like BioLab Conyers?

    The gravity of this situation underscores the need for changes to the federal and state regulatory systems. We look forward to your prompt response and urge robust, decisive measures to address the serious environmental and safety concerns posed by incidents like this.

    ###
     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ahead of World Mental Health Day, Senator Hassan, Students, and School Leaders Discuss Youth Mental Health Programs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Maggie Hassan

    MANCHESTER – U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan visited Southside Middle School in Manchester, where she met with students and received an update from officials from the Manchester, Concord, and Laconia School Districts on their federally funded programs that provide mental health resources and training in schools. They include a focus on evidence-based suicide prevention due to Senator Hassan’s bipartisan STANDUP Act, which was passed into law in 2022.

    During the visit, Senator Hassan met with Southside Middle School students who showed her posters that they have put up ahead of World Mental Health Day (on October 10) to reduce the stigma around youth mental health. She then sat down with officials from Manchester, Concord, and Laconia school districts and discussed the impact that Project AWARE, a federally funded youth mental health program, has had on students. Project AWARE includes evidence-based suicide awareness and prevention training as part of Senator Hassan’s bipartisan STANDUP Act.

    “Young people across New Hampshire have been speaking up about the need for more mental health resources in our schools,” said Senator Hassan. “Programs like Project AWARE – which has been strengthened by the STANDUP Act’s focus on utilizing the most effective methods to reduce suicides – are making an impact in our schools. I appreciated hearing from school officials about their Project AWARE programs and how we can continue to work together to improve students’ mental health.”

    “In order for our students to succeed academically, we need to go beyond the classroom to focus on the whole student. Our work to build district-wide systems of support for mental health and safety would not be possible without the Project Aware grant. We are grateful for Senator Hassan’s support in securing this funding, and thankful for her efforts on behalf of our students,” said Manchester Superintendent Jennifer Chmiel.

    “The Concord School District is grateful to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration for the opportunity to continue to build relationships with our community behavioral health partners, expand mental health literacy through training and awareness campaigns, and integrate social-emotional competencies into our curriculum, all in support of our students and their families. Through Project AWARE, we will keep improving our interconnected systems with local and state child-serving entities to enhance care coordination with an eye toward sustainability. We are excited to spend the next 5 years building protective factors in our diverse learners, providing equitable access to school-based behavioral health supports so each student can bring their best self to their education every day,” said Concord Superintendent Kathleen Murphy.

    “Project AWARE has given us the resources to talk with our young people about what to do when they’re having mental health issues. We’re working to have a proactive approach where it’s natural and appropriate to get help to feel better and get back in the game of learning and life,” said Laconia Superintendent Bob Champlin.

    Senator Hassan is working to strengthen mental health care treatment for young Granite Staters. In addition to Senator Hassan’s bipartisan STANDUP Act, the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which Senator Hassan supported and helped pass into law, includes important funding for New Hampshire schools to support youth mental health, including a $760,000 annual grant used by the University of New Hampshire to partner with the Manchester School District to place mental health professionals in schools.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Garcia and Asm. Schiavo Lead Bipartisan Letter to Governor Newsom to Declare State of Emergency for Chiquita Canyon Landfill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Garcia (CA-25)

    SANTA CLARITA, CA– Today, Representative Mike Garcia (CA-27) and Assemblywoman Pilar Schiavo (D-AD-40) led a bipartisan letter of state representatives petitioning Governor Newsom for a State of Emergency declaration at Chiquita Canyon. The letter, signed by 15 state legislators, outlines the urgent need for this declaration to protect the health and safety of residents living near the landfill.
    “The environmental disaster at Chiquita Canyon has only worsened for residents in Val Verde, Castaic, and the Santa Clarita Valley,” said Rep Garcia. “Innocent residents continue to face severe health problems and financial hardships because of this ongoing issue. It’s more urgent than ever: We need a State of Emergency. I’m grateful to have Assemblywoman Schiavo as a partner committed to taking this fight directly to the Governor. This joint letter proves that this issue transcends political boundaries – it’s about protecting the community and urging the state and county to do more for residents,” concluded Rep. Garcia.  “Residents of Val Verde, Castaic, and students of nearby schools have been subjected to prolonged exposure to harmful emissions, leading to a range of health issues including headaches, nausea, asthma, heart palpitations, and a newly identified cancer cluster,” said Asm. Schiavo. “Last week, to get a full understanding of the impacts, I stayed overnight with a family in the area. On their street of 14 houses, seven neighbors have been fighting cancer – one has passed away. While I am grateful for the robust state, federal, and county response to the disaster on the landfill site, neighbors just a few yards away do not have the protections or relief they need to keep themselves or their children safe. We must do more and we need to act now before more people get sick, or worse, die. A state of emergency must be declared and we need to focus relief efforts to get the community out of harm’s way and the healthcare and support they need,” concluded Asm. Schiavo.

    Rep. Garcia has been actively leading the response to the Chiquita Canyon crisis since it was brought to his attention last year. He has welcomed the EPA’s involvement, led a bipartisan letter urging the Governor for a State of Emergency, called for the immediate suspension of landfill operations except for local waste collection, demanded a thorough investigation to hold responsible parties accountable, secured federal funding for emissions monitoring and emergency response, and introduced the Chiquita Canyon Tax Relief Act. Throughout this time, he has maintained regular communication with affected residents to ensure they receive the necessary relief.

    A full copy of the letter text is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: No savings? No plans? No Great Australian Dream. How housing is reshaping young people’s lives

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Wendy Stone, Professor of Housing & Social Policy, Centre for Urban Transitions, Swinburne University of Technology

    Roman Samborskyi/Shutterstock

    Australia’s housing crisis is dramatically reshaping the lives and hopes of young people, highlighted in a new report launched today in Canberra as part of World Homeless Day.

    The research, developed by Swinburne University of Technology and funded by YWCA Australia, provided a platform for young women and gender diverse people from around Australia to share their housing experiences and aspirations.

    Our research found many young people are frustrated about the affordability, quality and security of housing in Australia.

    These housing barriers are changing the traditional life course that many of these young people expected to follow, undermining their sense of what it means to be an “adult”.

    Louise, 26, told us, as part of our research:

    I don’t feel like an adult sometimes because of my living circumstances … I thought I’d be like ‘Sex and the City’, having my own apartment and going out for drinks with my friends. But none of us have time to do that.

    The report highlights how such housing barriers and frustrations are severely impacting young people’s relationships, health and wellbeing, education, employment, and ability to plan for the future.

    Housing dreams are ratcheted down

    Home ownership is still “the great Australian dream” for many. However, numerous young people feel buying a home is out of reach or impossible.

    Erin, a young woman in her late 20s, states:

    It feels like you have to buy a house to be in the game, but to get there it just feels completely out of our grasp. And that’s quite scary.

    For many, buying or even renting is seen as unattainable without a partner. This has gendered implications where young women need to depend financially on a partner, potentially leading to disadvantage in the future.

    Amy, 30, articulates:

    It’s very hard to get a rental as a single female […] the uncertainty of not getting another place keeps me here.

    Participants with hopes of having children express anxiety when their housing circumstances are unpredictable and/or unaffordable.

    Jamie, a non-binary person in their mid-20s, says:

    The biggest negative impact of being stuck on the lowest end of the rental market is that it severely limits my ability to plan to start a family. My partner and I both want a child but are terrified of the idea of not being able to afford rent with a new baby and limited family support.

    Health and wellbeing are undermined

    Young people describe feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, trapped and crushed by their housing situations. For some, this stems from the daily challenge of simply making ends meet.

    Celia, a woman in her late 20s, describes:

    The constant cycle of living in a place for a year, getting a massive rent increase, having to find a new place and move again is exhausting, financially unsustainable and demoralising. It feels pretty hopeless because I’m stuck in this cycle and I’ll never save for a house deposit because I’m losing it all on exorbitant rent.

    For other participants, the health and wellbeing impact stems from their less-than-ideal dynamics at home, with many living with family as adults to save on rent.

    As Zoe, a woman in her late 20s, describes:

    It’s like you don’t pay with money to live with family […] but you pay with your mental health.

    Relationships and safety are affected

    Compromised safety is a concern among young women and gender diverse people we spoke with – whether it be escaping family and domestic violence, living in housing that is physically safe (such as with working locks on doors and windows), or sharing with others comfortably.

    Our research found gender has a material impact on housing experiences, and shaped young women’s and gender diverse people’s perceptions of safety.

    Julia, a woman in her early 20s, highlighted safety concerns:

    My family home was filled with a lot of domestic violence. And so when I left and now I have my own place, I feel very, very safe there in comparison. And also no one in my family knows where I live. So that makes me feel very safe.

    Some of the challenges of living with family were summarised by Ryde, a non-binary person in their early 20s:

    Even now I’m like learning how to like be my own person while still being under my parents’ roof […] like still living at home is a bit emotionally kind of weird.

    So what needs to change?

    Participants involved in the research provide a number of solutions for addressing their housing barriers, including:

    Beth told us:

    I feel like our education totally failed us. I always think there needs to be some kind of unit in Year 11 or 12, like a compulsory unit where it’s like just life skills. So taxes, superannuation, getting your first job, buying your first house, getting into the rental market. If we have the skills or knowledge from that education, we might be able to make more informed choices.

    Finally, young people urgently need a seat at the table when it comes to decisions about housing. They know what is needed and what politicians need to hear.

    In the words of Taylor, a 24-year-old woman:

    I think one thing that the politicians struggle to understand is that we’re not asking for, you know, four bedroom, three bathrooms at $400.00 a week. We’re asking for houses with working locks. No mould. And you know, we’re asking for very basic secure housing at affordable prices, it’s not a matter of us being picky. It’s a matter of health and safety.

    (All participants’ names have been changed).

    Wendy Stone receives funding from the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute (AHURI), the Australian Research Council (ARC), the Brian M. Davis Charitable Foundation, Housing for the Aged Action Group (HAAG), Kids Under Cover and YWCA Australia, the funder of the research this article reports on. She has previously received funding from the Victorian Government.

    Catherine Hartung received funding from YWCA Australia to undertake this research.

    Sal Clark received funding from YWCA Australia to undertake this research

    Zoe Goodall has received funding from the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute (AHURI), the Victorian government, the Brian M. Davis Charitable Foundation, Kids Under Cover, and YWCA Australia. YWCA Australia funded the research this article reports on.

    – ref. No savings? No plans? No Great Australian Dream. How housing is reshaping young people’s lives – https://theconversation.com/no-savings-no-plans-no-great-australian-dream-how-housing-is-reshaping-young-peoples-lives-240435

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Yes, nature is complex. But saving our precious environment means finding ways to measure it

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Brendan Wintle, Professor in Conservation Science, School of Ecosystem and Forest Science, The University of Melbourne

    Shutterstock

    Nature loss directly threatens half the global economy. The rapid destruction of biodiversity should alarm the many Australian businesses dependent on nature, such as those in agriculture, tourism, construction and food manufacturing. Yet nature considerations are often ignored in business decision-making.

    At the Global Nature Positive Summit in Sydney this week, scientists, politicians, conservationists and business leaders have gathered to discuss ways to help nature in Australia – not just by protecting it from damage, but improving it. Getting more businesses interested in – and taking positive action on – nature conservation is key to the talks.

    Reducing the environmental impact of a business first requires measuring that impact. It might seem an impossibly difficult task. After all, nature is a diverse and intricate web of connections. How can we capture that in a number?

    After all, nature is complex – but measuring how a business intersects with it need not be.

    Uncovering impacts on nature

    The fishing industry depends directly on stocks of wild fish. And a housing developer has a direct impact on nature if they clear natural vegetation to build a new suburb.

    Businesses interactions with nature can be indirect, too – for example, a margarine producer who uses canola oil from a grower who depends on bees for pollination. Builders might indirectly harm rainforests in Indonesia by buying timber grown there. A superannuation company investing in that developer is also having an indirect negative impact.

    From next year, Australian companies will be required to measure and report their climate impacts. While businesses are not yet required to disclose their impacts on nature more broadly, many are moving in that direction – both in Australia and globally.

    For example in 2022, more than 400 of the world’s largest corporations called for mandatory disclosure of nature impacts. They included Nestlé, Rio Tinto, L’Oréal, Sony and Volvo. And many early-adopter businesses have begun voluntary disclosures.

    Guidelines are available to help businesses understand and measure their impacts, however progress is slow. This is partly due to a perception from business that the task is too complex.

    Nature assessment is challenging. Unlike identifying a company’s contributions to climate change – by measuring tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions – there is no agreed single measure of impacts on nature.

    What’s more, different people ascribe different values to aspects of nature. Rightly or wrongly, for instance, most people would probably value a koala over a mosquito.

    What do you value more – a koala or a mosquito?
    Shutterstock

    Drawing on the expertise of ecologists

    Despite the difficulties, gauging the extent to which a business affects the environment can be done. Essentially, it involves three steps:

    1. understanding how a business broadly intersects with nature

    2. evaluating how specific business activities intersect with and put pressure on nature

    3. measuring and reporting the degree to which specific activities are impacting on the condition of nature. In other words, is the state of animals, plants and ecosystems improving or worsening?

    Online tools such as ENCORE can get businesses started on the first step – understanding a business’ broad impacts and dependency on nature.

    Many businesses are moving to the second stage – evaluating the specific business activities that put pressure on the environment, and determining the extent to which businesses depend on particular services ecosystems provide.

    The pressure a business places on nature can be measured via specific metrics, such as the amount of water consumed, air pollutants emitted, waste generated or area of land changed. Again, a suite of online tools and metrics can help with this.

    The next step is more complicated, yet essential. It requires businesses directly measuring their impacts on specific animals, plants and ecosystems. For this, we can turn to the expertise of ecologists.

    Individuals of a species can be hard to count, and extinction risk can be hard to measure. So ecologists often describe and monitor a species’ habitat – the environments in which a species can survive and reproduce – as a proxy for the fate of the species itself.

    Ecosystems – such as a rainforest, wetland or desert – can be described as being in good or poor condition. The rating depends on whether all the ecosystem’s plants, animals and other components are present, or whether unwanted components, such as weeds or invasive species, are found there.

    A graphic showing how ecologists measure the state of nature.
    TNFD

    In addition, maps, showing ecosystem condition and extent are available for much of Australia.

    Habitat mapping is also available for most threatened animals and plants, and thousands of other species. And mapping exists for World Heritage areas, important wetlands, national parks, Indigenous Protected Areas and other environment types.

    These resources are not difficult or expensive to access, and people and organisations with the skills to interpret and use such data are becoming more common.

    Some businesses are attempting these measurements. For example, plantation forestry company Forico last year prepared a natural capital report on a range of nature metrics, including the extent of species habitats, and assessment of vegetation condition.

    But many businesses are not yet grappling with this deeper nature analysis.

    This map, from ecosystem research organisation TERN, is one of many freely available to businesses seeking nature data.
    TERN

    Looking ahead

    We have the information and metrics to help businesses measure their impact on nature.

    Collaboration is urgently needed between business and nature experts, so the data available can be tailored to the needs of businesses, and presented in a form they can use.

    Governments can support this – for example by establishing accessible and practical online data platforms, and funding training for more nature experts who understand business.

    A new federal government agency, Environment Information Australia, will also hopefully become an important hub for data and information.

    By measuring what might seem immeasurable, businesses can become part of the solution to the nature crisis. There is cause for optimism – but no time to waste.

    Brendan Wintle has received funding from The Australian Research Council, the Victorian government, the NSW government, the Queensland government, the Commonwealth National Environmental Science Program, the Ian Potter Foundation, the Hermon Slade Foundation and the Australian Conservation Foundation. Wintle is a Board Director of Zoos Victoria and a lead councillor of the Biodiversity Council.

    Sarah Bekessy receives funding from the Australian Research Council, the National Health and Medical Research Council, the Ian Potter Foundation and the European Commission. She is a Lead Councillor with The Biodiversity Council, a board member of Bush Heritage Australia, a member of the WWF Eminent Scientists Group and an advisor to ELM Responsible Investment, the Living Building Challenge and Wood for Good.

    Simon O’Connor is affiliated with the Australian government as a member of the Minister for Environment and Water’s Nature Finance Council, and previously oversaw the national consultation group for the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures

    William Geary receives funding from the Victorian government and is associated with the Victorian Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action.

    – ref. Yes, nature is complex. But saving our precious environment means finding ways to measure it – https://theconversation.com/yes-nature-is-complex-but-saving-our-precious-environment-means-finding-ways-to-measure-it-240583

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI: Banco Itaú Chile Schedules Third Quarter 2024 Financial Results, Conference Call and Webcast

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SANTIAGO, Chile, Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —  BANCO ITAÚ CHILE (SSE: ITAUCL) announced today that it will release its results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2024, after the market closes in Santiago, on October 30, 2024.

    On Monday, November 4, 2024, at 11:00 A.M. Santiago time (9:00 A.M. ET), the Company’s management team will host a conference call to discuss the financial results. The call will be hosted by Claudia Labbé Montevecchi, Head of IR and Chief Sustainability Officer, and Matías Valenzuela Barrenechea, Head of FP&A, Capital and IR.

    Conference Call Details:

    Online registration: https://registrations.events/direct/Q4I613620

    All participants must pre-register using this link to join the conference call. Upon registering, each participant will be provided with details to connect to the call and a registrant ID.

    Webcast:
    The webcast will be available through the following link:

    https://events.q4inc.com/attendee/539765194

    Participants in the live webcast should register on the website approximately 10 minutes prior to the start of the webcast. Following the event, the event will be available in the same link.

    Telephone and Virtual Q&A session:
    The Q&A session will be available for participants connected through the conference call and through the webcast, where attendees will be allowed to type in their questions – we will read and answer selected questions verbally.

    Investor Relations – Itaú Chile

    IR@itau.cl / ir.itau.cl

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI China: China calls for peace, stability on Korean Peninsula

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson on Wednesday called on all parties to work together to uphold peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and advance the political settlement process of the Korean Peninsula issue.

    It is reported that the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) said it will completely cut off roads and railways connected to the Republic of Korea (ROK) and fortify the relevant areas of its side with strong defence structures from Wednesday. The DPRK will take a substantial military step to completely separate the territory of the DPRK, where its sovereignty is exercised, from the territory of the ROK.

    In response to a related query, spokesperson Mao Ning said at a daily news briefing that China is following the developments on the Korean Peninsula and DPRK-ROK relations.

    “China believes that upholding peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and advancing the political settlement process of the Korean Peninsula issue serves the common interests of all parties, and it is what the international community expects,” Mao said, adding all parties need to work together for this end. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Weather News – Mixed weather to mark the end of the school holidays – MetService

    Source: MetService

    Covering period of Thursday 10 – Monday 14 October – MetService is forecasting a mix of weather for Aotearoa New Zealand to start the weekend, with a wet Sunday set to close out the school holidays for much of the country. The trend of unsettled weather looks to continue into the start of the new week for the North Island and the eastern South Island, while other parts of the South Island can expect a more settled day.

    Thursday and Friday are a tale of two islands. Showers are expected across much of the North Island, some of which may be heavy on Thursday afternoon. Meanwhile, the South Island enjoys clearer skies, apart from the odd shower at the top of the island. Friday brings a chilly start for both islands, with what could be the coldest morning of the month so far. MetService meteorologist Mmathapelo Makgabutlane says “Many of us may be waking up to a frost.”

    Saturday offers a brief break for those looking to enjoy the final weekend of the school holidays outdoors, with mostly dry weather expected across the country. Western areas of both islands may see a few showers, while the lower South Island may experience some rain as a weak weather system passes through.

    However, this dry spell won’t last long. Rain and showers are expected to sweep across the South Island on Sunday, especially in the east, as chilly southerlies push through. The North Island is also in line for wet weather as the day goes on, something to keep in mind for anyone travelling home at the end of the holidays.

    The wet conditions persist into Monday for the North Island and eastern South Island. Eastern and central parts of the North Island could see particularly heavy rainfall. “As it’s still a few days away and the situation may be changeable, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on the forecast for any updates,” Makgabutlane advises.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Security Council resolutions binding for all states: Chinese envoy

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    UN Security Council resolutions are binding for all states, as stipulated in the UN Charter, and there is no room for distortion or interpretation, said Fu Cong, China’s permanent representative to the United Nations, at the Security Council briefing on the humanitarian situation in Gaza on Wednesday.

    Fu said that since October last year, the Gaza conflict and the situation in the Middle East have been at the forefront of the Security Council’s work. “Yet the situation has not improved so far. Instead, it has continued to deteriorate.”

    “We cannot ignore the marginalization of the Council,” he emphasized.

    Fu noted that there is broad consensus among the vast majority of council members on the Palestinian-Israeli issue. He recalled that after repeated vetoes of the council’s demand for an immediate ceasefire, the U.S. side put forward a ceasefire initiative last May, claiming that Israel had accepted it and requesting the council’s support for an agreement through diplomatic talks.

    “However, over the past five months, the so-called diplomatic efforts seemed to be going in circles, and more time and patience have led to greater civilian casualties and more reckless military adventurism,” he added.

    The ambassador said it is necessary to take a deep look at the current impasse and reaffirm some self-evident principles. “Security Council resolutions are binding for all states, as stipulated in the UN Charter, and there is no room for distortion or interpretation.”

    In this regard, the implementation of international humanitarian law is a non-negotiable obligation and cannot be used as a bargaining chip, and the principles of international law are universally applicable to all states, he said, warning that “double standard and selective application would set a terrible precedent with wide-ranging negative consequences.”

    “We certainly cannot lose faith in genuine diplomacy,” the envoy said, urging the country concerned to prioritize the saving of lives, show political will, take an impartial stand, give up its political calculations, and exert all available influence on the relevant party.

    “At the same time, we support the Council in utilizing all options in its toolbox to take further actions to end the war and restore peace as soon as possible,” he said. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Australian Senate president to visit China

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    President of the Australian Senate Sue Lines will lead a delegation to visit China from Oct. 11 to 16, at the invitation of Zhao Leji, chairman of the National People’s Congress Standing Committee. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China, EU to continue consultation on anti-subsidy case involving EVs

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    China and the European Union (EU) will continue to hold consultations regarding the EU’s anti-subsidy investigation into Chinese electric vehicles (EVs), after the representatives of EU Member States last Friday voted to pass the draft final ruling on the case.

    Recently, China has had intensive communication with both the United States and the EU concerning trade issues involving EVs, said sources familiar with this matter. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Mainland, HK agree to promote services trade

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    The Chinese mainland and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) have agreed to build closer ties in services trade, China’s Ministry of Commerce said Wednesday.

    Li Yongsha, an official with the ministry, and Paul Chan, financial secretary of the HKSAR government, signed a document on amending the service trade agreement under the Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement (CEPA) in Hong Kong on Wednesday.

    The agreement will take effect from the date of signing and will be officially implemented as of March 1, 2025.

    According to the amendment, thresholds of market access for Hong Kong service providers in fields including finance, telecommunications, architecture and tourism, will be further lowered or removed.

    Signed between the mainland and Hong Kong in 2003, the CEPA has significantly facilitated trade liberalization in both goods and services.

    The amendment is an important measure to improve the mechanism for Hong Kong to play a better role in China’s opening-up, said the ministry, adding that it is the second time the CEPA service trade agreement has been amended, the first time being in 2019. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Hangzhou further eases home-buying rules

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    The eastern Chinese city of Hangzhou has announced that it will reduce the minimum down payment ratio for commercial housing mortgages, becoming the country’s latest major city to further relax real estate policies.

    The capital city of Zhejiang Province will lower the down payment requirement from 20 percent to 15 percent for first-home buyers, and from 30 percent to 15 percent for second homes, said a notice issued on Wednesday.

    The city will also scrap price caps for new commercial houses built on land newly leased out by the state for residential use, according to the notice.

    Major Chinese cities including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and Shenzhen have adjusted their real estate policies following a meeting of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, which underlined the need for efforts to reverse the real estate market downturn and stabilize the market.

    Beijing last month announced that it would lower the threshold on non-locals buying real estate in the downtown area and reduce the minimum down payment ratio for individual home buyers.

    It followed similar decisions by Shanghai and Guangzhou to lift restrictions on buying properties or reduce the minimum down payment ratio. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China issues guidelines on accelerating development, utilization of data resources

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    The general offices of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the State Council have unveiled a set of guidelines on accelerating the development and utilization of public data resources, to provide solid support for making the digital economy strong and building new competitive advantages for the country.
    By 2025, the system and rules for the development and utilization of public data resources will be preliminarily established. Data products and services will continue to be enriched, and significant progress should be made in the development and utilization of public data resources in key industries and regions, according to the guidelines.
    By 2030, a comprehensive system for the development and utilization of public data resources will be established, with compliant and efficient data circulation and use. In the meantime, public data will play a full role as an essential factor in empowering the real economy, expanding consumer demand and investment space, as well as improving governance capacity.
    A sound policy system for data opening should be built, the guidelines said, stressing that measures should be taken to ensure data is made open in an orderly manner in accordance with the law and regulations, under the premise of safeguarding national data security, protecting personal information and business secrets.
    The guidelines also encourage innovative application to promote the healthy development of the data industry, and call for coordinating development and security to create a sound environment for the development and utilization of public data resources. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Mainland spokesperson urges adherence to one-China principle

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    A Chinese mainland spokesperson on Wednesday slammed an upcoming visit of Tsai Ing-wen, former leader of the Taiwan region, to Europe, urging relevant countries to adhere to the one-China principle.
    In response to a media query about Tsai’s visit to the Czech Republic and some other European countries, Zhu Fenglian, spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, said the Democratic Progressive Party authorities are engaging in “Taiwan independence” separatist activities under various pretexts, deceiving the international community.
    “No matter what they say or do, it cannot change the fact that Taiwan is part of China, nor can it alter the doomed fate of ‘Taiwan independence.’ These actions do not contribute to peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait or the well-being of the Taiwanese people,” Zhu said.
    “We urge the relevant countries to adhere to the one-China principle, handle the Taiwan question with caution, refrain from sending erroneous signals to the ‘Taiwan independence’ separatist forces, and avoid providing any platform for the dissemination of their separatist rhetoric,” she added. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: New study reveals Australian honeybees’ favourite legume flowers

    Source: New South Wales Department of Primary Industries

    10 Oct 2024

    The NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (NSW DPIRD) has released a new report revealing the pasture legume flowers that are the most attractive to Australian honeybees.

    NSW DPIRD senior research scientist and Clover4Bees project leader, Dr Richard Hayes said primary producers have always had the option to use forage legumes that support honey production, thereby enhancing resources for honeybees and fostering collaboration with apiarists. However, little was known of the relative value of the range of pasture legume species for honey bees – until now.

    The two-year pilot project, funded by AgriFutures Australia, evaluated 23 different pasture legume species across four NSW DPIRD research stations, focusing on their flower attributes, bee preferences, and nectar characteristics.

    “Out of 23 pasture legume species, six leading contenders were selected based on their flower attributes, bee preferences, and nectar characteristics,” Dr Hayes said.

    “Species like subterranean clover and biserrula were found to have low nectar yields and sugar concentrations, resulting in few bee visits.

    “Meanwhile, our top performers were woolly pod vetch and arrowleaf clover, which showed high potential due to their attractiveness to bees.”

    Balansa clover, gland clover, Persian clover, and crimson clover were also identified as highly enticing for honeybees, making them excellent candidates for supporting honey production and pollination.

    Dr Hayes said the Clover4Bees project highlights the need for further research and collaboration with other agricultural sectors to enhance the use of these legumes.

    “The results have come at a crucial time as environmental challenges and limited access to public lands have prompted the honeybee industry to explore alternative floral resources,” he said.

    “By creating a more pollinator-friendly landscape, all Australian agricultural industries can collectively ensure the sustainability of honey production and support the health of bee populations in the face of challenges like the varroa mite.”

    To view the report, please visit the AgriFutures website.

    For more information on NSW DPIRD Honeybee research, please visit our website.

    Images are available for download here

    Media contact:
    For more information, please contact: pi.media@dpird.nsw.gov.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Charges – Motor Vehicle Crash – Batchelor

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Northern Territory Police have charged a man after a crash in Batchelor yesterday. 

    Shortly before 5pm, Batchelor Police responded to reports of a single vehicle motor vehicle crash on Kirra Crescent, Batchelor.

    No persons were injured in the crash.

    The 39-year-old male driver and single occupant of the vehicle was arrested at the scene.

    Upon conducting a breath analysis, the male returned a high range reading of over 5 times the legal limit. 

    He was subsequently charged with:

    • Drive high range blood alcohol content
    • Drive an unregistered / uninsured motor vehicle
    • Breach of bail

    He was remanded overnight and is due to appear in local court today.

    Remote Sergeant Matthew Ridolfi said “The Northern Territory’s lives lost on roads has reached 50 this year already and this is another example poor decision-making among drivers. This incident occurred on a suburban street that has a high level of pedestrian activity and could have easily ended in tragedy.” 

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: 10 October 2024 New Kāinga Ora homes in Richmond set to welcome residents Five new state homes in Richmond are ready for whānau to move in.

    Source: New Zealand Government Kainga Ora

    Kāinga Ora has purchased the five two-bedroom homes in Richmond, near Nelson, from developer NZ Housing Group now that construction has been completed. They are among 27 new homes Kāinga Ora has delivered in Richmond in the past year.

    Julia Campbell, Regional Director Nelson, Marlborough and West Coast, says people on the Ministry of Social Development housing register who have specifically requested to move to Richmond will soon move into these homes.

    “Now that we’ve purchased the homes, we’ve begun the process of placing people into them. We’re expecting all the homes to be tenanted in the next couple of weeks.”

    Ms Campbell says the homes are in a sought-after location, with shops, schools and other services all nearby. “We’re looking forward to welcoming customers into their new homes, and to supporting them and their whānau as they settle into the area,” she says.

    Construction of the new homes began in April this year. Construction is also continuing on six new two-bedroom homes in Oxford Street in Richmond, which Kāinga Ora has agreed to purchase when they are completed at the end of this year. 

    Page updated: 10 October 2024

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police graduates keeping it in the family

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Families and friends were at Te Rauparaha Arena to watch seventy new police officers graduate from their initial police training  in Porirua today. Twenty three out of the seventy graduates joined police because they had whānau already in police as constables, sergeants, senior sergeants, detectives and even members of the police executive.

    In attendance at the 378 Wing graduation was Hon Hekia Parata, the Wing Patron, The Hon Mark Mitchell – Minister for Police, The Hon Casey Costello – Associate Minister for Police with Acting Commissioner Jevon McSkimming and members of the police executive. 

    Constable Steven Karehana was the recipient of the Commissioner’s Leadership Award. 

    “This is the beginning of our journey in the New Zealand Police, but for all of us graduating, there are many people who have sacrificed and worked hard to allow us to be here, and we are very grateful.  We could not have done it without you. The call to service is one few answer, but it is a selfless sacrifice to put community above self and by graduating today we have all joined a proud and selfless organisation.”

    Top award winner in the wing, Constable Jesse McIntyre was presented with the korowai to wear on parade by Ministers Mitchell and Costello.

    He says, “College is where I became part of the Police family. Both recruits and staff were welcoming and respectful. From day one you could see the passion and drive that everyone had to serve their communities and help people.

    My advice to anyone thinking of joining is keep true to yourself, remember why you joined and what you are striving to achieve.  Look after your mates and don’t be afraid to ask for support, we all need a bit of help sometimes.
    All staff here want you to succeed and achieve your potential, therefore have an open mind, and take on advice. Stay humble and take it one day at a time.”

    Awards:
    Minister’s Award recognising top student: Constable Jesse McIntyre, posted to Canterbury District.  Constable McIntyre also wins the Firearms Award.
    Patron’s Award for second in wing, recognising second top student: Constable Daniel Coonan, posted to Auckland City District.
    Commissioner’s Award for Leadership: Stephen Karehana posted to Central district.
    Driver Training and Road Policing Practice Award: Constable Ethan Comer posted to Bay of Plenty District.
    Physical Training and Defensive Tactics: Constable Marthinus Venter, posted to Tasman District.

    Deployment:
    The new constables will start their first day of duty in their Police districts on Monday, 21 October 2024 and will continue their training on the job as probationary constables. Northland 4, Tāmaki Makaurau a total of 22 and broken down as follows: Auckland – 7, Waitematā – 3, Counties Manukau – 12, Waikato – 5, Bay of Plenty – 8, Eastern – 3, Central – 7, Wellington – 10, Tasman – 2, Canterbury – 6, Southern – 3.

    Demographics:

    20.0 percent are female, 80.0 percent are male. New Zealand European make up 57.2 percent of the wing, with Māori 11.5 percent, Pasifika 10.0 percent, Asian 12.9. percent and Other 4.3 percent.

    Wing Patron:  The Honourable Hekia Parata – Ngāi Tahu and Ngāti Porou.

    After a career as a senior public servant, Parata was a member of the New Zealand House of Representatives, representing the National Party, from 2008 until 2017. She served as the Minister of Education in the Fifth National Government. Some of her parliamentary roles included Minister for Women’s Affairs, Minister for Ethnic Affairs, Minister of Education and Minister for Pacific Island Affairs.  She retired from politics in 2017, and since then has had several appointments to ministerial inquiries, such as leading the 2023 inquiry into forestry land use after Cyclone Gabrielle.

    Please look out for a Ten One Magazine story that will be published on the Police website with more stories and photos about our recruits tackling work in their first week.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Sub-Saharan Africa: Sharp rise in use of death penalty across region

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Executions more than tripled in 2023, while death sentences increased by 66% in the region

    Fresh call for abolition on World Day Against Death Penalty, with Kenya, Zimbabwe and Gambia leading the way

    ‘It’s time for all countries to move away from this cruel, inhuman and degrading punishment once and for all’ – Oluwatosin Popoola

    Sub-Saharan African countries on the cusp of abolition must ban the death penalty immediately, paving the way for others around the world to follow in their footsteps, said Amnesty International on World Day Against the Death Penalty (10 October).

    Last year, Amnesty documented a sharp increase in the use of the death penalty across sub-Saharan Africa, when recorded executions more than tripled and death sentences increased by 66% from 298 to 494. Somalia was the only country in the region known to have carried out executions.

    Death sentences were recorded in 14 African countries, an overall decrease of two compared to 2022.  However, there were increases in recorded death sentences in some countries, including Ghana (seven to 10); Mali (eight to 13); and Nigeria (77 to 246).

    Despite these bleak statistics, Kenya and Zimbabwe and Gambia are edging closer towards abolition. Kenya and Zimbabwe currently have bills tabled to abolish the death penalty for all crimes, while Gambia has begun a constitutional amendment process that will effectively abolish the death penalty. So far, 24 out of 53 countries across sub-Saharan Africa have abolished the death penalty for all crimes.

    Oluwatosin Popoola, Amnesty International’s legal advisor on the death penalty, said:

    “Although the sub-Saharan Africa region saw a surge in both recorded executions and recorded death sentences in 2023, Gambia, Kenya and Zimbabwe have the opportunity to buck that trend in the region.

    “Countries that still retain the death penalty in their laws often resort to the death penalty believing the punishment can make their people and communities safer. However, that is a misconception. The death penalty does not have a unique deterrent effect, and it violates the right to life as proclaimed in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

    “Countries that still retain the death penalty are an isolated minority as the world continues to move away from this cruel punishment. The more countries that abolish the death penalty for all crimes, the more isolated the remaining countries will become and the weaker their position on the death penalty will be. It’s time for all countries to move away from this cruel, inhuman and degrading punishment once and for all.”

    Progress in the region: Kenya

    Gambia, Kenya and Zimbabwe have not carried out an execution in more than a decade, while each country has commuted multiple death sentences in the same period. The last known execution in Kenya was in 1987, and although the country does not have an official moratorium on executions it has an established practice of not carrying them out. Kenyan courts continue to impose death sentences, but the country continues to make good progress against the death penalty. In 2023, 606 commutations of death sentences were granted, while four bills to abolish the death penalty are currently pending in Parliament.

    Progress in the region: Zimbabwe

    The last known execution in Zimbabwe was carried out in 2005 even though courts continue to impose death sentences. President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who assumed office in 2017, has also made his opposition to the death penalty clear.

    Oluwatosin Popoola explained:

    “Zimbabwe’s president was himself sentenced to death for ‘terrorism’ as a young man due to his involvement in Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle. He narrowly avoided execution as he was below the age of 21 at the time and was sentenced to ten years in prison instead. The president knows what it’s like to be facing the death penalty and he now has the opportunity to ensure no one else goes through that.”

    Last December, the Death Penalty Abolition Bill was published in the official gazette in Zimbabwe and the Government announced its support for it this February. The bill is currently pending before parliament.

    Progress in the region: Gambia

    The last execution in Gambia was carried out in 2012, when nine soldiers were executed by firing squad. However, since President Adama Barrow assumed office in 2017, Gambia has made significant progress in abolishing the death penalty: the country has established an official moratorium on executions, become party to an international treaty aiming at the abolition of the death penalty, and regularly commutes death sentences.

    The global picture

    In 2023, Amnesty recorded a sharp rise in  executions globally, with 1,153 executions, an increase of 31% (270) from the 883 known executions in 2022. This year has continued a disturbing trend with an alarming surge in executions in Iran and Saudi Arabia, a decision in Democratic Republic of Congo to resume executions, and Taiwan’s Supreme Court failing to abolish the death penalty. So far, 113 countries around the world have abolished the death penalty for all crimes.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoyer Statement on Republican Disinformation Regarding Hurricane and Disaster Warnings

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steny H Hoyer (MD-05)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) released the following statement today regarding the disinformation spread by Republicans about the hurricane warnings and resources from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA):

    “With one of the most powerful hurricanes in history bearing down on America’s gulf coast, the last thing the hundreds of thousands of evacuees need is disinformation. Sadly, Donald Trump, the provocateur-in-Chief, Senator Vance as his deputy, and the members of the extreme MAGA far-right, have seized on this natural disaster to spread conspiracy theories and political hoaxes. 

    “Trump forces continue to vilify FEMA and raise doubts about the agency’s warning to Americans caught in the path of the deadly storm to evacuate before it is too late. Spreading these lies is not only morally disgusting; it is dangerous. 

    “Every second counts in an evacuation. Someone who cares more about maximizing the number of likes and views on a provocative tweet over minimizing the number of American lives lost to these storms has no place holding public office. Our response to these storms has been – and must remain – bipartisan and truthful. 

    “It is crucial that our House comes together to secure disaster aid to help those affected by these storms and the many other disasters America has experienced in recent months. I urge Americans to evacuate, and I urge their leaders to either reiterate that warning or refrain from their partisan lies.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC – No MDs are in effect as of Thu Oct 10 01:02:01 UTC 2024

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Current Mesoscale DiscussionsUpdated:  Thu Oct 10 01:03:02 UTC 2024 No Mesoscale Discussions are currently in effect.

    Notice:  The responsibility for Heavy Rain Mesoscale Discussions has been transferred to the Weather Prediction Center (WPC) on April 9, 2013. Click here for the Service Change Notice.
    Archived Convective ProductsTo view convective products for a previous day, type in the date you wish to retrieve (e.g. 20040529 for May 29, 2004). Data available since January 1, 2004.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC – No watches are valid as of Thu Oct 10 01:02:01 UTC 2024

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Current Convective Watches (View What is a Watch? clip)Updated:  Thu Oct 10 01:04:06 UTC 2024 No watches are currently valid

    Archived Convective ProductsTo view convective products for a previous day, type in the date you wish to retrieve (e.g. 20040529 for May 29, 2004). Data available since January 1, 2004.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Oct 10, 2024 0100 UTC Day 1 Convective Outlook

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

     For best viewing experience, please enable browser JavaScript support.

    Oct 10, 2024 0100 UTC Day 1 Convective Outlook

    Updated: Thu Oct 10 00:52:54 UTC 2024 (Print Version |   |  )

    Probabilistic to Categorical Outlook Conversion Table

     Forecast Discussion

    SPC AC 100052

    Day 1 Convective Outlook
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    0752 PM CDT Wed Oct 09 2024

    Valid 100100Z – 101200Z

    …THERE IS A MARGINAL RISK OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS ACROSS PORTIONS
    OF CENTRAL AND EASTERN FLORIDA…

    …SUMMARY…
    Potential for a tornado or two will continue tonight across central
    and eastern portions of the Florida Peninsula in association with
    Hurricane Milton.

    …Central and eastern Florida…
    Hurricane Milton has very recently made landfall near Sarasota, and
    will very gradually weaken with time as the storm moves fully
    inland. A notable dry slot has wrapped into southern portions of
    the storm, with much of the southern half of the peninsula now
    rain-free. The strongest convective band, including strong/rotating
    cells — which was earlier responsible for producing multiple inland
    tornadoes — is now well off the eastern/Atlantic Coast.

    While low-level shear across much of central and eastern Florida
    remains quite conducive for updraft rotation/tornado potential, the
    sustained lack of any appreciable convective banding east and south
    of the center will continue to limit tornado potential. Greatest
    risk appears to remain immediately ahead of the track of Milton’s
    eye — i.e. roughly the central third of the Peninsula including
    Orlando and Melbourne. Overall however, risk appears to have
    decreased sufficiently to warrant downgrade to level 1/MRGL risk for
    the remainder of the period.

    ..Goss.. 10/10/2024

    CLICK TO GET WUUS01 PTSDY1 PRODUCT

    .html”>Latest Day 2 Outlook/Today’s Outlooks/Forecast Products/Home

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: St Helens continuing to target drink and drug drivers

    Source: Tasmania Police

     
    St Helens Police have detected five drink and drug drivers since the start of October.On 1 October, a 46-year-old man was detected in St Helens who was driving an unregistered vehicle with false number plates while unlicensed. He subsequently returned a reading of 0.079 per cent and was also charged with a minor drug offence.
    On 3 October, a 31-year-old man was detected in St Helens who returned a positive result for methamphetamines on a roadside test.
    On 6 October, an 18-year-old woman was detected in Scamander. She was a provisional driver who should not have had any alcohol in her system but returned a result of 0.055 per cent.
    On 9 October, a 47-year-old man was detected in St Helens who was driving on a suspended licence. Following a roadside test, he also returned a positive reading for amphetamines.
    Also on 9 October, a 35-year-old man was detected in St Helens who was also driving on a suspended licence. He returned a reading of 0.228 per cent, over four times the legal limit for licensed drivers.
    Inspector Luke Manhood warned that police are actively targeting this sort of offending and could be operating anywhere and at any time. Alcohol and drug affected drivers put the safety of themselves and others in serious jeopardy and police will do everything we can to take them off the road.

    MIL OSI News –