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Air Europa Flight Emergency Landing After Severe Turbulence: Dozens Injured

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A Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner operated by Air Europa, flying from Madrid to Montevideo, made an emergency landing in Brazil after encountering severe turbulence over the Atlantic near the Brazilian coast. The incident occurred on Flight UX045, prompting the aircraft to divert to Natal Airport in north-eastern Brazil instead of continuing to its destination in Uruguay.

The airline confirmed that the turbulence caused injuries among passengers, with approximately 30 individuals requiring medical attention. Local authorities and airport officials deployed a fleet of ambulances to meet the aircraft upon landing. Reports from Brazilian medical teams indicated that some passengers suffered cranial fractures and facial cuts, with 10 of them needing hospitalization.

This incident occurred weeks after a Singapore Airlines flight experienced severe turbulence over Myanmar, resulting in numerous injuries and the tragic death of a British passenger. While severe turbulence incidents are rare, recent studies have suggested a potential increase in risk due to climate change.

Air Europa expressed its commitment to assisting affected passengers and ensuring their well-being following the mid-air emergency.

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Seven dead after train and bus collide at Slovakia level-crossing

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Seven people have lost their lives and five others were injured when an international express train collided with a bus at a level crossing in southern Slovakia, according to officials. The Slovak ambulance service confirmed that all the fatalities were bus passengers, who were severely burned in the ensuing fire, complicating the identification process, as stated by Interior Minister Matus Sutaj Estok.

The tragic accident occurred near the town of Nove Zamky, around 80km (50 miles) east of Bratislava, shortly after 17:00 local time (16:00 BST) on Thursday. At the time of the collision, the train carried approximately 200 people, while there were nine passengers on the bus. The impact split the Arriva bus in two, and both the bus and train drivers were among the injured.

Photographs from the scene depicted the locomotive engulfed in flames, with passengers evacuating along the tracks. The train involved was the EuroCity 279 service, traveling from Prague to Budapest via Bratislava, operated by a Czech Railways locomotive pulling Slovak Railways carriages. Czech Railways commended their driver for his quick actions to prevent injuries to the train passengers by attempting to avoid derailment. It is reported that he jumped into the control room moments before the collision and sustained burns in the subsequent fire.

An Arriva spokeswoman mentioned in Slovak media that the bus driver had over 30 years of experience. Local media also published videos showing passengers carrying luggage away from the burning train, with thick smoke billowing into the sky. Investigations are underway to determine the cause of the accident. Some reports suggest the level crossing’s flashing lights and barriers were malfunctioning due to a recent storm. However, eyewitness accounts claim the lights were operational, the barriers were initially lowered, but then raised, leading to the bus crossing and being struck by the train.

Slovak Railways has not commented on these claims. Minister Estok, who visited the accident scene, emphasized on social media the importance of road and railroad crossing safety, remarking that “a little inattention is enough and life can change in a hundredth of a second – forever.”

Passenger Katarina Molnarova, 43, recounted to AFP that just as she departed from Nove Zamky station, she felt and heard a crash. She mentioned there was no panic, and passengers calmly took their luggage and walked to safety. Emergency services dispatched five ambulances and three air ambulances to the site.

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Lightning Strike in Czech Republic Injures 18 People

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Eighteen people sustained injuries in the Czech Republic when a tree they were sheltering under was struck by lightning, according to local emergency services. The incident occurred on Sunday afternoon in the Liberec-Vratislavice castle park, situated in the northern Liberec region, approximately 55 miles (90 km) northeast of Prague.

Images and videos shared by the fire service show numerous emergency personnel and vehicles at the scene. While officials have not released detailed information about the injured individuals, local media reported that children were among those hospitalized. The park was hosting an event for International Children’s Day at the time.

Czech TV station CT 24 reported that five of the injured were children aged between two and 16, and that five adults required resuscitation at the scene. Vaclav Ricar, a spokesperson for the Liberec regional hospital, told local newspaper Liberecky Denik that the hospital had received 17 conscious patients, confirming that one child was airlifted to a hospital in Prague.

The Czech Republic experienced heavy rain and storms over the weekend, with reports of flooding affecting various parts of the country. Climate change, which has caused the world to warm by approximately 1.1C since the industrial era, contributes to more frequent extreme rainfall events. Temperatures will continue to rise unless significant emissions reductions are made globally.

Experts advise those caught outside in a thunderstorm to seek a low spot away from trees, fences, and poles. If you feel your skin tingle or your hair stand on end, it indicates that lightning is imminent. The recommended action is to crouch down, balancing on the balls of your feet with your hands on your knees and your head between them, to make yourself the smallest target possible and minimize ground contact.

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Czech president injured while racing motorcycle

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Czech President Petr Pavel has been hospitalized following a motorcycle accident, with his office reassuring the public that the injuries are not severe, necessitating only a short observation period. The incident occurred on a closed racing circuit, leading authorities to abstain from launching an investigation. Despite the accident, President Pavel’s love for motorcycles is well-known, particularly his fondness for riding a BMW R1200 GS.

President Pavel’s enthusiasm for motorbikes has occasionally landed him in controversy. Last year, he publicly apologized after being caught riding without a helmet. Nonetheless, his passion for biking remains undeterred, with the president often seen enjoying rides, even to neighboring countries like Germany. Pavel’s commitment to strengthening diplomatic ties, combined with his love for motorcycles, has made headlines throughout his tenure.

This recent accident marks another addition to President Pavel’s list of extra-curricular mishaps. Just last April, he sustained a minor injury while practicing shooting at a range. Despite these incidents, President Pavel continues to engage actively in both official duties and personal interests, illustrating a dynamic and multifaceted leadership style.

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Two killed in New Caledonia as riots escalate after Paris vote

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New Caledonia, a Pacific territory under French governance since the 19th century, is currently gripped by violent unrest stemming from the French parliament’s decision to expand voting rights for French residents there. This move, allowing long-term French citizens in New Caledonia to participate in provincial elections, has sparked outrage among many locals who perceive it as marginalizing the indigenous Kanak people and undermining their political representation.

The escalation of protests into riots has resulted in fatalities, numerous injuries, and widespread property damage, marking the most severe unrest the territory has experienced since the 1980s. In response, French President Emmanuel Macron canceled a planned trip and convened an emergency meeting to address the crisis. The situation prompted authorities to impose a curfew and ban public gatherings in an attempt to restore order.

Despite efforts to quell the violence, tensions remain high, with continued clashes between protesters and law enforcement. The unrest has led to a significant number of arrests and calls from both local and national leaders for calm and de-escalation. The situation underscores the complex political dynamics in New Caledonia, where issues of autonomy, indigenous rights, and French governance intersect, fueling longstanding grievances and tensions within the community.

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Clashes Erupt in Georgia Over Proposed ‘Foreign Agent’ Bill

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Riot police in Georgia deployed tear gas and water cannons to disperse demonstrators protesting against a proposed bill, which the opposition views as an attack on media freedoms. The clashes erupted outside the parliament building in Tbilisi, where protesters hurled eggs and bottles at the police. Despite the retreat of the crowds, confrontations persisted late into Tuesday evening along Rustaveli Avenue, resulting in several injuries and arrests.

The bill, known as the “foreign agent” legislation, received preliminary approval from lawmakers on April 17th. Introduced by the ruling Georgian Dream party, it mandates that non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and independent media outlets, receiving over 20% of their funding from foreign sources, register as entities “advancing the interests of a foreign power.” These organizations would be subject to oversight by Georgia’s justice ministry and could face penalties, including significant fines.

The passage of the bill’s initial reading sparked a wave of street demonstrations. Reports indicate that several protesters sustained injuries during Tuesday’s clashes in Tbilisi, including Levan Khabeishvili, chairman of the main opposition party, United National Movement, who was reportedly hospitalized after a severe beating.

Eyewitnesses also observed instances of police officers physically assaulting protesters, according to Reuters news agency. A number of demonstrators were reportedly taken into custody. However, Georgian authorities have not publicly addressed these allegations of injuries or police misconduct.

Critics of the bill argue for its repeal, contending that it mirrors authoritarian legislation used by Russia to suppress dissent. They fear it could stifle critical voices ahead of this year’s parliamentary elections and impede Georgia’s progress toward EU membership. European leaders and the United States have warned that adopting the foreign agents law would undermine Georgia’s European aspirations.

Despite international concerns, Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze’s government remains steadfast in its support of the bill. Kobakhidze has accused NGOs of attempting to foment revolutions in Georgia and of promoting “gay propaganda.” He maintains that the legislation aims to enhance transparency and denies allegations that it contradicts European values or serves Russian interests.

In response to the protests, Georgian Dream organized its own rally, where party founder Bidzina Ivanishvili criticized Western interference. The situation underscores the deepening divide within Georgia over the bill and its implications for democracy and international relations.

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Itzulia Basque Country: Jonas Vingegaard suffers broken collarbone and ribs in crash

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The Itzulia Basque Country stage race witnessed a significant setback as a high-speed crash on a descent led to severe injuries for several top cyclists, including the reigning Tour de France champion Jonas Vingegaard, race leader Primoz Roglic, and Remco Evenepoel. Vingegaard, aged 27, suffered a broken collarbone and multiple ribs, requiring medical attention.

Similarly, Roglic and Evenepoel sustained injuries significant enough to force them out of the race. Additionally, Jay Vine of UAE Team Emirates suffered fractures in his cervical and two thoracic spine vertebral bodies, highlighting the severity of the incident.

The aftermath of the crash prompted race officials to take action. With safety concerns prevailing, the remaining 35 kilometers of Thursday’s fourth stage were neutralized. Only a select few from the front group contested for the stage win, with Louis Meintjes ultimately clinching victory.

Despite the competitive spirit, the prevailing sentiment was one of concern and acknowledgment that winning under such circumstances was not the ideal scenario. Meintjes and his team, Intermarche-Wanty, expressed their thoughts and solidarity with the injured riders, emphasizing the paramount importance of the safety and well-being of all participants.

In terms of race logistics, the crash had significant implications for the general classification. Stage organizers announced that the times from the affected stage would not be factored into the overall standings, recognizing the extraordinary circumstances. As a result, the previous standings, where Roglic held a seven-second lead over Evenepoel, were nullified.

The race dynamics shifted, and Danish rider Mattias Skjelmose of Lidl-Trek now finds himself leading the overall standings by a margin of four seconds heading into the fifth stage of the six-stage race. The crash not only altered the competitive landscape but also underscored the inherent risks and challenges faced by cyclists in professional racing.

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FlixBus: Deadly crash on German motorway near Leipzig

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A tragic incident occurred near Leipzig in East Germany involving a FlixBus coach, resulting in four fatalities and over 40 injuries, according to police reports.

The coach, which departed from Berlin with two drivers and 52 passengers bound for Nuremberg and Zurich, veered off the A9 autobahn, leading to its overturning. The company expressed condolences to the victims and their families.

The crash occurred around 10:00 local time on Wednesday, two hours into the journey, at a junction near Leipzig/Halle Airport. No other vehicles were involved, as per police statements.

Emergency services, including helicopters and ambulances, swiftly responded to the scene, prompting the closure of both lanes near the Schkeuditzer Kreuz interchange.

FlixBus, a long-distance coach service operating across Europe, America, and Asia, emphasized that the exact cause of the accident remains unknown, while expressing solidarity with those affected.

This unfortunate event has parallels with previous incidents on the A9 motorway near Leipzig, including a fatal crash in 2019.

A tragic incident occurred near Leipzig in East Germany involving a FlixBus coach, resulting in four fatalities and over 40 injuries, according to police reports.

The coach, which departed from Berlin with two drivers and 52 passengers bound for Nuremberg and Zurich, veered off the A9 autobahn, leading to its overturning. The company expressed condolences to the victims and their families.

The crash occurred around 10:00 local time on Wednesday, two hours into the journey, at a junction near Leipzig/Halle Airport. No other vehicles were involved, as per police statements.

Emergency services, including helicopters and ambulances, swiftly responded to the scene, prompting the closure of both lanes near the Schkeuditzer Kreuz interchange.

FlixBus, a long-distance coach service operating across Europe, America, and Asia, emphasized that the exact cause of the accident remains unknown, while expressing solidarity with those affected.

This unfortunate event has parallels with previous incidents on the A9 motorway near Leipzig, including a fatal crash in 2019.

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Brighton & Hove Albion fans stabbed before Europa match in Rome

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Two Brighton & Hove Albion fans were attacked in Rome ahead of their Europa League match against Roma. The pair sustained non-life-threatening stab wounds during the incident, which involved a group of up to seven individuals. The attack occurred while they were walking back from a bar, with one fan describing the assailants as wearing balaclavas and all dressed in black.

The victims were promptly taken to different hospitals for treatment. One fan mentioned that his injured friend might miss the game due to the severity of the wound. Sussex Police’s liaison officer for the club confirmed that both fans were okay and urged supporters to adhere to safety advice provided by the club.

While it’s unclear whether the attackers were affiliated with Roma supporters, Brighton & Hove Albion issued a warning to fans regarding street crime in Rome. They advised supporters to use the free shuttle service provided for transportation to and from the Stadio Olimpico to ensure their safety during the event.

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Valencia fire: Nine bodies found as Spanish police search gutted flats

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Firefighters and forensic experts in Spain have reported the recovery of nine bodies from the wreckage of a 14-floor apartment complex in Valencia after a fire ravaged it. Initially, authorities stated that 10 people had perished, but later revised the number, indicating one person was missing.

The rapid spread of the flames, believed to have originated on the fourth floor of one of the blocks, was attributed to both the cladding affixed to the exterior of the building and strong winds. The fire engulfed the structure within minutes, hindering firefighters’ efforts to reach beyond the 12th floor due to the swift combustion facilitated by the cladding.

Investigations highlighted the cladding, which was permitted under building regulations at the time of construction in 2008 but has since been prohibited, as a potential cause for the fire’s rapid escalation. Despite its ban, there was no initiative to remove the hazardous cladding, contrasting with measures taken in the UK after the Grenfell Tower tragedy.

Amidst the devastation, acts of bravery emerged, including the efforts of a caretaker named Julián, who courageously attempted to evacuate residents as the fire spread. Individuals recounted harrowing experiences of escaping the inferno, with some sustaining injuries. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and other officials pledged support for the affected families and communities.

Efforts to aid those displaced by the fire are underway, with initiatives to provide housing and essential supplies. The local community has rallied to offer assistance, with donations pouring in for the survivors. In a gesture of respect for the victims, a La Liga match scheduled for Saturday has been postponed. Valencia FC expressed condolences for the tragedy that befell the city.

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