SUMMARY: Florida is nearing the start of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season amid concerns over a potential government shutdown. Meteorologists predict 17 named storms and 9 hurricanes this year, while lawmakers struggle to finalize the state budget before the July 1 deadline. If the government shuts down, some storm relief programs could be delayed, but key emergency operations will continue. Experts remain concerned about FEMA’s readiness, citing inefficiencies from previous streamlining efforts. Mayor Daniella Levine Cava reassures residents about the state’s preparedness. The official storm forecast is due on May 22, with Andrea as the first storm name.

Read the full article

The post State shutdown looms as Florida braces for active hurricane forecast appeared first on www.abcactionnews.com

SUMMARY: The UN’s humanitarian chief, Tom Fletcher, defended using the term “genocide” to describe the situation in Gaza, stressing the urgency of preventing further violations of international law. Fletcher criticized Israel’s blockade of Gaza, which has worsened the humanitarian crisis, and rejected a U.S.-backed proposal for a new aid distribution system, calling it dehumanizing. He argued that the UN’s current system, despite its flaws, is the best option to ensure aid reaches those in need. Fletcher also expressed concerns about undermining humanitarian principles with the new system, which would grant Israel control over aid distribution.

Read the full article

The post UN aid chief defends using ‘genocide’ in Gaza remarks to the Security Council that Israel rejects appeared first on www.news4jax.com

SUMMARY: In the 19th century, rumors circulated about a volcano in northwest Florida, known as the “Wakulla Swamp Volcano,” reportedly seen near Tallahassee’s swampy forests. Locals believed billows of smoke came from an unseen volcano, though theories suggested moonshine stills, geysers, or lightning strikes might explain the phenomenon. The legend gained attention, inspiring a poem and an expedition in the 1870s that ended tragically. Modern theories now suggest the smoke was likely caused by a peat fire, as Florida’s marshy areas are prone to such fires. The phenomenon seemed to cease after the 1886 Charleston earthquake, which may have blocked the source.

Read the full article

The post Is this Florida swamp hiding a secret volcano? Here’s what we know appeared first on www.clickorlando.com