More from Disasters & Emergencies

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  Fire Erupts at Rajasthan HPCL Refinery

  A fire broke out at the HPCL refinery in Rajasthan's Baltora district on April 20, 2026, just a day before Prime Minister Narendra Modi was scheduled to inaugurate the facility. The blaze occurred within the refinery complex operated by Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited, though official confirmation is pending. This incident raises concerns about safety protocols ahead of the high-profile launch. Authorities are investigating the cause as the inauguration plans hang in the balance.

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  Six Missing After Ship Capsizes Near Saipan

  An overturned cargo ship, the Mariana, was found near Saipan following Typhoon Sinlaku, with six crew members still missing, the U.S. Coast Guard confirmed. The vessel lost engine power amid fierce winds and rain, and contact was lost Thursday. Search efforts continue over 75,000 square nautical miles, with divers and drones deployed to investigate the ship. The ongoing search highlights the severe impact of the typhoon on the Northern Mariana Islands and the urgent need to locate the missing crew.

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  Floodwaters Surge in Gatineau and Ottawa

  Rising waters on the Ottawa River have put 164 homes at risk in Gatineau, with 41 streets closed as emergency crews respond to the threat. The situation is critical as renewed rain forecasts increase pressure on flood-prone areas in Quebec and Ontario. Quebec Premier Christine Fréchette highlighted that flooding is becoming more frequent due to climate change. Authorities warn that water levels may peak soon but risks could persist for weeks, prompting preparations for possible evacuations.

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  Wellington Floods Trigger Emergency Alert

  A state of emergency has been declared in Wellington, New Zealand, after torrential rains caused severe flooding and landslides across the region. Hundreds of residents in flood-prone areas, including Mount Cook, Brooklyn, and Island Bay, have been urged to evacuate immediately to ensure their safety. The flooding has submerged streets, homes, and vehicles, with emergency services actively coordinating evacuations and damage control. Authorities warn of continued heavy rain and advise residents to act swiftly and avoid floodwaters. Recovery efforts and assessments are underway as the community braces for ongoing severe weather.

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  Deliberate Fire Hits Derelict Antrim Hotel

  A fire at the abandoned Antrim Arms Hotel in Ballycastle is being treated as deliberate by police. Over 40 firefighters battled the blaze late Sunday, with streets closed temporarily for safety. The hotel, a local heritage landmark, has been cordoned off for over a year due to structural concerns. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward as investigations continue.

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  7.4 Quake Rocks Northern Japan, Tsunami Alert Issued

  A powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck off northern Japan near Iwate prefecture at 4:53 pm local time, shaking buildings as far as Tokyo. Authorities issued tsunami warnings for coastal areas, expecting waves up to 3 meters, prompting evacuations and the suspension of bullet train services in Aomori. Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has mobilized a crisis management team to respond. Officials are monitoring nuclear plants for damage, with early reports indicating no major incidents so far. Residents remain on high alert as aftershocks and tsunami risks persist.

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  Hong Kong Fire Survivors Return Home

  Months after Hong Kong's deadliest fire in decades devastated the Wang Fuk Court complex, survivors are finally returning to their damaged homes to retrieve belongings. The fire in November killed 168 people and left thousands displaced, with many older residents preparing physically for the climb up blackened staircases. While some hope to reclaim cherished items, others face the harsh reality of destruction and uncertainty about future housing as authorities consider demolishing the damaged buildings.

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  Louisiana Shooting Kills 8 Children

  In Shreveport, Louisiana, a domestic violence shooting claimed the lives of eight children aged 1 to 14, police confirmed. The suspect, identified as 31-year-old Shamar Elkins, died after a police chase and shootout. This tragic event, spanning multiple homes, has left the community devastated and is the deadliest U.S. mass shooting in over two years. Authorities continue investigating the motive behind this horrific act.

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  Massive Fire Ravages Malaysian Village

  A devastating fire swept through a coastal village in Sabah, Malaysia, destroying about 1,000 homes and displacing roughly 9,000 residents. The blaze broke out early Sunday in a densely packed water village built on stilts, complicating emergency response efforts. Despite the scale of destruction, no casualties have been reported. Authorities continue to assess the damage and support displaced families.