ISSUE INSIDE

Unveiling the Facts Ahead of Contaminated Water Discharge In an alarming decision, Japan has announced plans to release treated, but still radioactive, water from the melted-down Fukushima nuclear plant into the ocean. The water, estimated to be over one million tons, equivalent to filling 500 Olympic-sized swimming pools, was used for cooling the reactors after the 2011 tsunami disaster. Mikamura Ai, clad in a white gown and gloves, was seen cutting fish samples at the Tarachine Research Institute, located about an hour's drive from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant on the eastern coast of Japan. Mikamura, along with other volunteers, collects fish samples from the ocean around the nuclear plant four times a year. Since the establishment of the research institute in the aftermath of the tsunami and subsequent nuclear disaster, they have diligently continued this work. Mikamura is not a scientist, just as the non-profit institute named "Tarachine," meaning "m

Historic Arrival: Tropical Storm Hilary Makes Landfall in Southern California Unprecedented Weather Phenomenon as Tropical Storm Hilary Strikes Southern California Tropical Storm Hilary has shattered records by moving into Southern California, bringing an extraordinary weather event that has captivated the nation. This unprecedented occurrence marks the first time in decades that a tropical storm warning has been issued for the region. As Hilary, which initially emerged as Hurricane Hilary before being downgraded, journeyed up Mexico's Baja California Peninsula, it unleashed heavy rainfall and strong gusts, leading the National Hurricane Center to sound the alarm across Southern California. This storm's impact has surged beyond expectations, with over 8.5 inches of rain in Mount Wilson and significant flooding in various parts of the state. Flash flooding has been a major concern, particularly in areas prone to landslides and mudslides, which have been amplified by recent wildf

Kim Jong Un oversees naval missile launch as tensions escalate in the region. In a bold move amidst escalating tensions, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has personally overseen the test-firing of strategic cruise missiles from a navy ship. The provocative act coincides with the commencement of major annual military drills between the U.S. and South Korea, seen by North Korea as preparations for an invasion. Kim's presence on board a patrol boat to witness the drill underscores the gravity of the situation. While details remain vague, the Korean Central News Agency used the term "strategic" to allude to the missiles' potential to carry nuclear warheads. Kim's assertion of strengthening the North's naval power and the implied nuclear capability adds another layer of concern to the already tense situation. The joint military exercise, named "Ulchi Freedom Shield," includes both computer-simulated command post exercises and large-scale field drills. The

Unprecedented Massive Blaze on Tenerife, Canary Islands, Believed to be Arson-Triggered In an alarming turn of events, a colossal wildfire has engulfed the picturesque Spanish holiday haven, Tenerife, in the Canary Islands, with authorities suspecting arson as the cause. Tenerife, a renowned Spanish resort destination, is now at the mercy of an unprecedented firestorm. According to AP news on the 20th (local time), Fernando Clavijo, Governor of the Canary Islands, stated, "Police have confirmed that the massive wildfire that erupted in Tenerife, a popular Spanish tourist spot, was intentionally ignited." While Governor Clavijo continues the investigation into the cause of the wildfire, it remains undisclosed whether any individuals have been apprehended in connection to the incident. Progress is being made in containing the fire. Officials noted, "Firefighters have made significant headway overnight as weather conditions improved." Similar to much of mainland Spain,

Russia's Ambitious Lunar Mission Ends in Failure as 'Luna-25' Probe Crashes on Moon's Surface In an unfortunate turn of events, Russia's unmanned lunar probe, named 'Luna-25,' has crashed onto the lunar surface after veering off course. This ambitious endeavor marked Russia's first attempt in 47 years since its last endeavor in 1976 during the Soviet era. As reported by Reuters and other sources, the Russian Federal Space Agency, Roscosmos, issued a statement on the 20th (local time), revealing that the "Luna-25 probe had deviated from its predicted orbit and collided with the lunar surface, resulting in complete destruction." Roscosmos had previously disclosed on the 19th around 2:10 PM that "an abnormal situation occurred during the spacecraft's transition to lunar landing orbit," stating that despite issuing the command to enter the lunar orbit, the probe failed to maneuver as intended. The exact cause of the crash has not been

China's Central Bank to Determine Benchmark Interest Rates Amid Economic Challenges In an effort to address its ongoing financial crisis, China is preparing to announce its benchmark interest rates today (August 21). The decision holds the potential to unveil clues about how China intends to navigate the economic downturn while striving to stimulate growth. As China faces escalating debt default concerns within its real estate and financial sectors, the People's Bank of China is on the brink of determining its key lending rates, effectively setting the benchmark interest rates. Observers speculate that China's authorities are likely to opt for a slight interest rate reduction as part of their strategy to bolster the economy. Although substantial stimulus measures are required due to the comprehensive crisis, the situation also calls for careful consideration of the United States' stance. If the interest rate differential widens significantly between the U.S. and China,

Ron DeSantis Loses Ground in Polls, Faces Strong Challenge from Businessman Vivek Llamaswami In a rapidly shifting landscape within the Republican Party's primary race, Ron DeSantis, the Florida Governor and a leading contender in the GOP presidential race, is facing a fierce challenge from businessman Vivek Llamaswami for the second spot. According to a recent survey conducted by Emerson College from August 16 to 18 among a thousand registered voters, former U.S. President Donald Trump, who has faced four indictments, continues to dominate the field with a commanding 56% approval rate among Republican candidates. In a surprising turn, DeSantis' once strong standing has plummeted to 10%, putting him on equal footing with entrepreneur Vivek Llamaswami. DeSantis, who held a 21% approval rate in a similar poll conducted just two months prior, has experienced a significant decline in support. Over the same period, Llamaswami has seen a 2% increase in his approval rating. In a surve