Good morning. You’re reading the Up First newsletter. Subscribe here to receive it in your inbox, and listen to the Up First podcast for the news you’ll need to kick off your day.
Today’s Top Stories
Jamaica is assessing the damage from Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm that made landfall yesterday. While the capital city, Kingston, was spared the worst, the government reported significant issues, including over half a million residents without power and blocked roads. The international airport may reopen for relief flights as soon as tomorrow, even as the storm continues to impact Cuba’s west coast.
According to NPR’s Eyder Peralta, the most urgent concerns are in Western Jamaica, particularly St. Elizabeth Parish, which has seen flooding. Minister Desmond McKenzie indicated that rescue efforts are underway for numerous families trapped in homes. Teams hope to reach those individuals today.
In Israel, the military conducted renewed airstrikes in the Gaza Strip yesterday, reviving tensions close to three weeks into a ceasefire with Hamas. The military claims it was targeting a Hamas tunnel when militants opened fire, resulting in the death of an Israeli soldier. Following this, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu authorized “forceful strikes,” leading to reports of around 100 Palestinians killed, including many children. The ceasefire has been reinstated but remains precarious due to ongoing disputes over hostages.
Meanwhile, air traffic controllers across the U.S. are facing mounting pressures as they work without pay amid a government shutdown. Many controllers, such as Maximilian Crawford in Atlanta, report financial struggles, with some seeking assistance from loans and family. The shutdown has already affected flight schedules, and without immediate resolution, controllers fear the impact will worsen.
Additionally, over the past year and a half, the use of GLP-1 weight loss drugs has significantly increased, contributing to a slight decline in the U.S. obesity rate, now at 37%. While these medications are proving beneficial, challenges regarding access and cost loom, with some insurers expected to halt coverage next year.
Support for Cancer Patients
Supporting a loved one during cancer treatment can be challenging. NPR’s Life Kit suggests various roles friends and family can adopt to provide meaningful assistance. Whether being a doctor’s appointment buddy or meal planner, the significant support can help ease the burden on those undergoing treatment. For more advice on this topic, listen to the latest episode from NPR’s Life Kit.
Three Things to Know Before You Go
- Fast fashion brand Shein is opening its first permanent location in Paris, sparking public criticism.
- Amazon plans to lay off about 14,000 corporate employees as economic pressures increase.
- A new coalition is launching the Literary Arts Fund with plans to distribute at least $50 million to support literary initiatives over the next five years.
This newsletter was edited by Suzanne Nuyen.
