NPR News Now: December 29, 2024, 7 AM EST

Hosted by NPR

Severe Storms and Tornadoes Devastate the Southeast United States

Timestamp: [00:16]

The Southeast United States continues to grapple with the aftermath of severe storms that swept through Texas to Georgia yesterday. Tens of thousands of customers remain without power due to the extensive damage caused by these storms, which have not only destroyed homes but also flipped vehicles. The Houston area, in particular, experienced multiple tornadoes, including a significant one near the Brazoria County town of Alvin.

Emily Trevino shared her firsthand experience, stating, “It really didn't stick around” ([00:40]), highlighting the suddenness and intensity of the tornadoes. Tragically, the outbreak has resulted in at least two fatalities and six injuries.

In addition to the immediate physical damage, these natural disasters have exacerbated issues for undocumented communities. With many not qualifying for federal disaster aid, nonprofits dedicated to assisting these populations have had to pivot their focus solely to disaster relief. Nate Perez elaborates on this shift:

Nate Perez: “Citizens, a person born in a U.S. territory, a green card holder or refugee, can apply for FEMA's cash aid after an extreme weather event.” ([01:02])

Gabriela Emanuel adds, “So they were forced to become disaster organizations on top of the other missions and programmatic work” ([01:22]), underscoring the increased burden on these organizations.

As climate change continues to intensify hurricane activity, experts like Michael Mendez from the University of California, Irvine, emphasize the growing need for nonprofits to expand their capacity to support the most vulnerable communities ([01:30]).

Aviation Incidents Raise Concerns in South Korea and Canada

Timestamp: [01:41]

A tragic aviation incident in South Korea has resulted in a rising death toll of at least 177 individuals after a passenger plane skidded off the runway, collided with a concrete wall, and burst into flames. Emergency responders successfully rescued two survivors, but two others remain unaccounted for. Investigations are ongoing, with authorities considering a possible bird strike as a potential cause. South Korea's Transport Ministry confirmed that the flight data recorders have been recovered.

In parallel news from Canada, Halifax's airports faced temporary closures last night following a landing mishap. According to the CBC, a passenger reported that one of the plane's tires failed to deploy properly, causing the aircraft to skid and partially catch fire ([01:41]).

UNICEF Reports Record High of Children Affected by Global Conflicts

Timestamp: [02:41]

UNICEF has released alarming statistics indicating that over 473 million children are living in areas affected by conflicts—the highest number ever recorded. These conflicts span the globe, affecting regions from Haiti and Lebanon to Myanmar and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Gabriela Emanuel explains, “There are more conflicts now than at any point since World War II. And since the world's population has more than tripled since then, the total number of kids affected is at an all-time high.” ([02:41])

Joe English from UNICEF elaborates on the severe repercussions for children in conflict zones:

Joe English: “Growing up in a conflict zone makes a child more likely to be out of school and malnourished... And there are often long lasting impacts on a child's mental health.” ([02:41])

These findings highlight the urgent need for global intervention to protect and support children whose lives are disrupted by ongoing conflicts.

Political Turmoil in Georgia and Presidential Elections in Croatia

Timestamp: [03:13]

In the former Soviet republic of Georgia, Suarian Mikhail Kavalashvili has been appointed as president amid a deepening political crisis that has mobilized thousands of Georgians to the streets. Kavalashvili, a former soccer player affiliated with the Georgia Dream party, assumes leadership after the opposition alleges that the October elections were rigged with Russian assistance. The outgoing president refuses to relinquish power, maintaining that she remains the legitimate leader of the country.

Meanwhile, Croatia is witnessing its first round of presidential elections today, featuring eight contenders, including the incumbent President Zora Milanovic. Often compared to Donald Trump, Milanovic is a vocal critic of Western military support for Ukraine. Given the competitive field, the election is anticipated to proceed to a second round next month ([03:13]).

TikTok Influencer Charli D'Amelio Makes Her Broadway Debut in "and Juliet"

Timestamp: [04:12]

Broadway is embracing a new wave of star casting by featuring TikTok sensation Charli D'Amelio in the ensemble of the musical "and Juliet." Unlike traditional lead roles, D'Amelio's participation highlights the evolving landscape of theater casting.

Emily Trevino notes, “Than 155 million followers, Charli D'Amelio has the second most followed account on TikTok. And this fall, fans got to follow her journey online as she made her Broadway debut in the ensemble of the musical and Juliet” ([04:12]).

A spokesperson, Nate Perez, provides a glimpse behind the scenes:

Nate Perez: “Hi, I'm Charli D'Amelio and I want to take all of you behind the scenes to an and Juliet rehearsal.” ([04:27])

Since D'Amelio joined the production in October, "and Juliet" has seen a resurgence in ticket sales and a significant boost in social media engagement, despite the challenges Broadway faces in attracting audiences post-pandemic. Ava Pukach, NPR News, reports that the strategic casting has revitalized interest and participation in the musical ([04:33]).

This summary provides an overview of the key discussions and insights from the NPR News Now episode released on December 29, 2024. For full details and additional coverage, tuning into the episode is recommended.