SUMMARY: The Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), which managed $136 million in federal grants for the Next Generation Warning System (NGWS) to upgrade emergency alert systems in underserved areas, is shutting down on September 30 after losing congressional funding. This threatens dozens of projects aimed at improving public media stations’ ability to deliver crucial alerts during disasters, especially in rural areas with poor cell service. Stations like KSUT and KVPR have halted upgrades due to suspended funds and halted FEMA spending. FEMA has recently opened limited NGWS grants directly to states but hasn’t clarified distribution of existing funds, leaving emergency alert resilience at risk amid growing climate hazards.

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SUMMARY: Travis Kurtz, a Seminole man and property manager, survived a lightning strike outside Rizzo’s pizzeria during a typical rainy day. The lightning hit unexpectedly, leaving him convulsing and in severe pain with a heart rate of 1,265 beats per minute. Pizza shop owner Mark Rizzo quickly responded, calling 911 and helping Kurtz, who spent several days hospitalized. Though Kurtz faces memory loss and motor skill challenges, he is grateful to be alive, supported by his girlfriend and community. A fundraiser and GoFundMe have been organized to assist with his recovery, urging Floridians to avoid going out in the rain during storms.

Florida man survives lightning strike outside Seminole pizza shop; credits stranger and girlfriend for saving his life. Now, he’s sharing his story — and warning others.

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SUMMARY: Over 180 current and former FEMA employees issued a rare letter warning that severe budget cuts and mismanagement risk a disaster akin to Hurricane Katrina. The letter, marking the 20th anniversary of Katrina, criticizes recent policies, including restrictive spending approvals and staff reassignments to Immigration and Customs Enforcement, which undermine FEMA’s disaster response capacity. It highlights leadership turmoil, with frequent firings and inexperienced acting chiefs, and calls for FEMA to become an independent, cabinet-level agency. Signatories fear retaliation under the current administration’s suppressive climate. Similar dissent has emerged at other federal agencies, emphasizing widespread concern about government emergency readiness.

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