NPR News Now Summary - January 10, 2025
Released: January 10, 2025
Devastating Palisades Fire Rages in Los Angeles County
Jack Spear opens the episode with urgent news about the Palisades fire engulfing Los Angeles County. Updated mapping has now confirmed that 55,000 structures have been lost due to the blaze ([00:16]). Kirk Sigler provides a detailed report from Los Angeles, highlighting the severity of the situation:
"Close to 180,000 people remain under evacuation in the LA basin where multiple uncontained fires are burning." ([00:16])
The intensity of the fires has been exacerbated by the erratic Santa Ana winds, which have turned the flames toward densely populated urban areas. Kirk Sigler adds:
"The winds have died down some and there's a tinge of humidity in the air. It's a small piece of good news compared to the dusty, erratic gusts of the Santa Anas blowing in from the desert." ([00:38])
Residents like Will Cook share their harrowing experiences:
"I'm really sad about what it is. I got what matters most, and that's my kids." ([00:54])
The community faces not only the threat of the fires but also the chaos of evacuation alerts, which have been inconsistent. Sigler reports:
"It's been chaotic and a whiplash of stress for Angelenos getting text alerts to evacuate and not always accurate. Authorities at one point even sent out a blast to the entire city, only to have to send out a follow-up alerting it as a mistake." ([01:00])
Tragically, the death toll from the fires has risen to at least six and is expected to climb further ([01:16]).
Farewell to President Jimmy Carter in Plains, Georgia
Transitioning to national news, Jack Spear announces the return of the late President Jimmy Carter to his hometown of Plains, Georgia for his burial alongside his wife, Rosalynn ([01:16]). Debbie Elliott captures the solemn atmosphere:
"People line the streets waving American flags as the funeral procession of the nation's 39th president made a journey through downtown Plains. It's a somber moment." ([01:32])
Maud Raven Russell, reflecting on Carter's legacy, shares a heartfelt tribute:
"So I have known him all of my life and he has been a down-to-earth person. He's been president to, but he's been Jim Carrey to us and honed." ([01:51])
The ceremonies were honored with a US Navy missing man formation flyover, adding to the gravity of the farewell ([02:05]).
Severe Winter Storm Impacts Central Texas and Beyond
A powerful winter storm has hit central Texas, bringing sleet and snow, with expectations of up to 6 inches in Dallas extending through the Carolinas ([02:14]). Nate Perez provides insights into the storm's progression:
"A winter storm has blanketed central Texas in sleet and snow. The cold front is expected to travel through southern Arkansas and northeastern Tennessee before exiting off the Atlantic coast Sunday." ([02:14])
Meteorologist Paul Kirkwood advises residents:
"It's best to stay home during these times." ([02:26])
Jack Spear emphasizes the dangers posed by the storm:
"These types of systems with snow and the cold air are to try to stay indoors and not drive as much as the roads become very slick and dangerous for people." ([02:40])
Areas in Arkansas and western Tennessee may experience up to 8 inches of snow, urging residents to stock up on groceries and supplies to prepare for potential disruptions ([02:49]).
Supreme Court to Deliberate TikTok's Future
In a significant legal development, the Supreme Court is set to hear arguments regarding the fate of the popular video-sharing app TikTok. The case, scheduled for the following day, will examine a law aimed at forcing the sale of TikTok by its Chinese parent company, ByteDance ([02:59]). This decision could have far-reaching implications for tech companies and national security considerations.
Resolution of Park City Mountain Resort Ski Patrol Strike
A labor dispute at the Park City Mountain Resort in Utah has concluded successfully for the union, representing over 200 ski patrollers. The strike, which had led to trail closures and lengthy lift lines at the nation's largest ski resort, ended after Vail Resorts agreed to key demands, including a $2 per hour raise for senior ski patrol personnel ([02:59]). The union hailed the agreement as a victory, ensuring better conditions and compensation for its members.
Legal Proceedings for Khalid Sheikh Mohammed Delayed
A noteworthy legal saga unfolds as a federal appeals court has postponed a U.S. Military court hearing involving Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, the alleged mastermind of the 9/11 terror attacks, held at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. The hearing was initially set to allow Mohammed to plead guilty, but will now focus on whether to block the guilty pleas.
Sacha Pfeiffer delves into the complexities:
"This legal drama began last summer when Muhammad and two of his co-defendants agreed to plead guilty in return for up to life in prison rather than face a death penalty trial." ([03:59])
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin had rescinded these plea deals, prompting legal battles over their validity. Although military courts ruled that Austin could not retroactively cancel the deals, he continued to seek federal court intervention, resulting in the postponement of this week's plea hearing ([03:59]).
Crude Oil Prices Rise Amid Cold Weather Demands
The energy sector sees a surge as crude oil futures climbed by 60 cents per barrel, settling at $73.92. The increase is attributed to heightened demand for heating fuel oil driven by colder winter weather in both the U.S. and Europe ([04:40]). Jack Spear explains:
"Colder winter weather in the US and Europe is expected to drive demand for heating fuel oil up." ([04:40])
This uptick reflects the broader economic impact of severe weather conditions on energy markets.
NPR News Now continues to provide timely updates on critical events shaping our world. Stay informed with NPR for comprehensive news coverage.