SUMMARY: Severe storms in Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia have raised lightning safety concerns after two Ware County teens, Joey Nelson Jr. and Randall Martin III, died while fishing. Within 24 hours, a lightning strike ignited a house fire in St. Johns County, though no one was home. Another strike at St. Augustine Beach Pier hospitalized two individuals, one seriously. Mayor Dylan Rumrell urged caution during thunderstorms, emphasizing the importance of seeking shelter when thunder is heard. The National Weather Service reports over 500 U.S. lightning deaths since 2006, with fishing as the leading risky activity. They advise avoiding tall trees and using enclosed shelters during storms.

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SUMMARY: A local church in Ruskin is addressing fear among its Hispanic parishioners caused by recent ICE raids and deportations. About half of Saint Ann Catholic Church’s congregation identifies as Hispanic, many anxious about being questioned or detained. Father Kevin invited an expert to educate parishioners on their rights if stopped by immigration agents to ease their worries. While Homeland Security emphasizes targeting violent criminals and urges unauthorized immigrants to self-deport, community members call for more flexibility toward those seeking better lives. Father Kevin stresses that faith calls for compassion and safety for all, regardless of political views.

A Ruskin pastor says ICE raids are hitting close to home for some Hispanic parishioners. He says some are even scared to go the church. The Diocese is now training clergy on how to respond.

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SUMMARY: Emergency crews in Kerrville, Texas, suspended their search for victims of catastrophic July 4th flooding due to new heavy rain and flash flood warnings. The Guadalupe River’s rapid rise flooded roads and bridges, forcing evacuation of search teams. The floodwaters surged 26 feet in 45 minutes, destroying homes and camps, including Camp Mystic, where at least 27 campers and counselors died. The disaster exceeded a 100-year flood event and caught many off guard amid a lack of warning systems. Kerr County endured 120 billion gallons of rain. Nearby San Antonio also faced deadly flash floods earlier this summer, highlighting the region’s vulnerability.

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The post Emergency crews suspend search for flooding victims in central Texas amid new flood warnings appeared first on www.clickorlando.com