All articles tagged with #rebuilding efforts
The Palisades Fire in California destroyed many homes and senior living facilities, but residents like Victoria Escalante and Alison Rockwell are determined to rebuild and return, despite slow progress and ongoing challenges from storm damage and mudslides.
A church in Pomona, California, was destroyed in a fire just hours before Christmas celebrations were scheduled to take place. Firefighters arrived at Victory Outreach church early Sunday morning and launched an aggressive attack, but the fire quickly spread and caused the roof to collapse. No injuries were reported, and the cause of the fire is under investigation. The church's planned celebrations were postponed, but they still plan to hold a toy giveaway for local children with the help of firefighters. A GoFundMe page has been set up to raise funds for rebuilding the church.
US Vice President Kamala Harris outlined American objectives for post-conflict Gaza, emphasizing the reunification of the Palestinian people in Gaza and the West Bank under one governing entity. Harris stated that the United States will not permit forced relocation, besiegement, or redrawing of Gaza's borders. She called for rebuilding efforts to be pursued with a clear political horizon towards a Palestinian state led by a revitalized Palestinian Authority, with support from the international community and regional countries. The White House emphasized that Hamas cannot control Gaza due to security concerns for Israel, the well-being of Palestinians, and regional stability. The future role of the Palestinian Authority in governing Gaza remains uncertain, with discussions ongoing among US officials. Harris also met with leaders from the United Arab Emirates and Qatar to discuss the situation.
Laurie Allen, who escaped the Lahaina wildfire in Hawaii by running through a burning field, has died after spending over seven weeks in a hospital burn unit. The fire, which killed at least 98 people and destroyed 2,200 buildings, was the deadliest in the US in over a century. Allen's husband, Perry Allen, lost his home and lifetime of work in the fire. Despite enduring infections and multiple operations, Laurie Allen's condition worsened, and she was taken off life support. Residents are now returning to the devastated town, but authorities have urged caution due to potential toxins in the ashes.
The 2013 Colorado floods, which occurred 10 years ago, resulted in the loss of nine lives and caused $4 billion in damages. The heavy rain caused streams and rivers to overflow, destroying bridges, roads, and thousands of homes and businesses. The National Guard assisted in rescuing thousands of people who were stranded. The town of Lyons was particularly hard hit, and rebuilding efforts are still ongoing. Several events are being held to commemorate the 10-year anniversary of the floods.
The fishing industry in Florida's Big Bend region, already struggling due to a net-fishing ban in the 1990s, faces further uncertainty after Hurricane Idalia caused significant damage to boats and polluted the waters. The region, known for its sport fishing and seafood industry, relies heavily on tourism and nature preserves. The storm's impact on the local fishing industry is expected to be a blow to the economy, prompting Governor Ron DeSantis to promise federal funds for rebuilding efforts. President Biden plans to visit the affected area, while residents face the daunting task of cleanup and rebuilding their livelihoods.
Jean-Louis Georgelin, the French army general appointed to oversee the reconstruction of Notre-Dame Cathedral, has died in a mountain fall while hiking in the Pyrénées. The 74-year-old former chief of the defence staff was found on Mount Valier after failing to return to a mountain refuge. His death is being treated as an accident. Georgelin, a highly respected soldier, was known for his military approach to the restoration project and had been designated as the chief of operations. His passing is a loss for the nation, the military, and the ongoing efforts to rebuild the fire-damaged cathedral.
The death toll from the Maui wildfires in Hawaii has reached 96, making it the deadliest wildfire in the US in over a century. Search crews are going street by street through the affected neighborhoods, expecting to find more victims in the coming days. Cellphone service has been partially restored, reducing the number of missing people to about 1,300. The government is providing hotel rooms for displaced residents and FEMA is offering financial assistance. The Biden administration is seeking $12 billion in additional funding for disaster relief. The cause of the wildfires is under investigation, and authorities are examining their response. The fires have destroyed most of the historic town of Lahaina, with an estimated value of $5.6 billion lost. Toxic byproducts and lack of homes remain major concerns. Oprah Winfrey has been providing aid and support to the affected community.