NPR News Now: November 22, 2024, 10 AM EST
Host: Korva Coleman
Release Date: November 22, 2024
Description: The latest news in five minutes. Updated hourly.
1. West Coast Endures Powerful Storm System
Korva Coleman opens the episode at [00:16], reporting on a severe weather event affecting the West Coast. A powerful storm system, identified as an atmospheric river, has struck Washington State, Oregon, and Northern California, leaving over 180,000 customers in Washington without power.
Lauren Sommers elaborates on the nature of the storm at [00:37]:
“Atmospheric rivers are basically these plumes of moisture that move across the Pacific Ocean. And if you look at a weather map, it actually kind of looks like a fire hose is pointed at the West Coast.”
She explains that such systems are crucial for California, providing up to half of the state's annual rainfall. However, this particular storm is intensified by a nearby bomb cyclone, characterized by a rapid drop in air pressure leading to damaging winds and heavy rainfall. Some regions on the West Coast are forecasted to receive up to 16 inches of rain once the storm subsides.
2. Lebanon's Independence Day Shadowed by Conflict
Today marks Lebanon's Independence Day, commemorating the 1943 relinquishment of French control. However, the celebrations are overshadowed by ongoing conflict and violence. Korva Coleman transitions to this somber news at [01:01].
Lauren Frayer reports from Beirut at [01:36], highlighting the devastating impact of recent Israeli airstrikes:
“Catastrophic is how Adel Saad, mayor of Maracay in southern Lebanon, describes the situation in his village.”
In southern Lebanon, Adel Saad recounts simultaneous airstrikes:
“Israeli airstrikes hit at the same time.”
Residents express fears of escalation and the struggle to secure safety, especially for vulnerable individuals. Lebanon's health ministry reports that over 50 people have been killed in the latest 24-hour period, including at least five medics. Distressing footage from the Baqa Valley shows survivors navigating through the rubble of destroyed buildings, signaling severe humanitarian concerns.
3. Stock Markets and Economic Updates
The morning saw a positive start in the stock markets, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average rising by more than 300 points early in trading, as reported by Korva Coleman at [02:22].
Scott Horsley provides further economic insights at [02:31]:
“Crude oil prices climbed as Russia ratcheted up its assault on Ukraine.”
Despite the rise in crude prices, AAA notes that the average price of regular gasoline has moderated to just under $3.06 a gallon. Meanwhile, McDonald's is adapting its business strategy by expanding discount meal offerings to attract customers amid rising restaurant prices, which are increasing three times faster than grocery prices over the past year.
Additionally, significant leadership changes are underway as the nation's top stock market regulator prepares to step down in January. SEC Chairman Gary Gensler announced his departure to allow the incoming President-Elect Trump to appoint a new chief with a lighter regulatory approach.
4. Education Curricula and FBI Leadership
Korva Coleman discusses educational reforms at [03:12], focusing on the Texas Board of Education's upcoming vote on a new public school curriculum that incorporates material from the Bible. This proposal has sparked emotional debates, raising questions about the separation of religion and public education. Similar trends are observed in other states:
- Louisiana aims to display the Ten Commandments in all public schools starting next year.
- Oklahoma's education chief has mandated that a Bible be placed in every classroom.
These moves could set precedents regarding religious content in public education systems.
Concurrently, the future of FBI Director Chris Wray is uncertain as the Biden administration prepares for a transition. With more than two years left in his term, Wray may be replaced upon Donald Trump's inauguration. NPR's Kerry Johnson reports on Wray's current standing and contributions at [03:58]:
“Chris Wray says his confidence in the FBI workforce remains unwavering.”
During a recent benefit in Washington, Wray praised his employees and underscored his dedication since taking office in 2017. Natalie Barra, president of the Agents Association, commended Wray as a stabilizing force:
“Ray's been the calm in the storm and drowned out noise with faff.”
Despite Wray's strong leadership, President Elect Trump is seeking a "clean house" at the FBI and Justice Department, indicating potential significant changes ahead.
5. Sports Highlights: MVP Awards
Wrapping up the news segments, Korva Coleman shares exciting sports news at [04:40]:
“Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani has won his third Most Valuable Player award. It's his first in the National League.”
Additionally, the American League's MVP has been awarded to New York Yankees star Aaron Judge, highlighting his outstanding performance this season.
Note: This summary excludes advertisements, intros, outros, and non-content segments to focus solely on the informative aspects of the podcast episode.