The National Weather Service issued a “Particularly Dangerous Situation” warning for parts of southern California, as strong winds threaten to exacerbate three active fires. Forecasters anticipate 45 to 70 mph wind gusts and low humidity, posing a severe fire risk. The death toll from the fires stands at 24, with dozens missing and numerous arrests made. (Forbes)
A federal judge ruled that the Justice Department can release special counsel Jack Smith’s investigative report on President-elect Donald Trump’s 2020 election interference case. However, a temporary injunction is in place until Tuesday, and the decision may face further challenges up to the Supreme Court. (AP)
The CDC reports that flu is at extremely high levels in the West, across the Midwest, and deep into the Southeast, with increasing flu-related hospitalizations and deaths. Flu A strains, particularly H3N2 and H1N1, are dominant, affecting all age groups. Experts anticipate elevated flu activity for several more weeks and recommend getting a flu shot. (NBC News)
A 6.8-magnitude earthquake off the coast of Miyazaki, Japan triggered a tsunami warning, then an advisory. The epicenter was in the Hyuga Nada Sea. Kyushu Shinkansen suspended service. Nuclear plants reported no issues. This follows a 7.1-magnitude quake in Tibet that caused casualties last week. (UPI)
A study projects dementia cases doubling to one million annually by 2060 in the U.S. Midlife actions, like controlling high blood pressure, can reduce the risk. After age 55, the chance of developing dementia is up to 4 in 10, with risk increasing with age. “All of our research suggests what you do in midlife really matters,” said Dr. Josef Coresh of NYU Langone Health. (AP)