Iowa caucusgoers are gearing up to cast the first votes of the 2024 presidential campaign, but dangerous weather advisories are creating a chilling atmosphere across the United States. From coast to coast, bitterly cold temperatures have gripped the nation. Additionally, an erupting volcano in Iceland is engulfing homes in lava. Here’s what you need to know today.
What to Watch for in Tonight’s Iowa Caucuses
Image: Kelsea Petersen / NBC News
The Iowa caucuses mark the beginning of the 2024 presidential campaign as Republicans, along with independents and Democrats who choose to switch parties, participate in the voting process. However, subzero temperatures are forecasted statewide, potentially making this the coldest caucus day on record. The frigid weather conditions may affect turnout, but former President Donald Trump remains confident that his supporters will defy the cold temperatures. Trump is currently the favorite in Iowa, holding a nearly 30-point lead. The real suspense lies in the race for second place, with Nikki Haley and Ron DeSantis battling it out to gain momentum before the upcoming primaries. Stay tuned for dangerous winter weather updates and the results of tonight’s caucuses.
Medical Mistakes: A Gender and Minority Disparity
Image: Kate Medley for KFF Health News
Women and minorities face a higher likelihood of medical misdiagnosis compared to white men. Charity Watkins, a Black woman, experienced exhaustion and a cough after giving birth. Her doctor dismissed her symptoms as the flu, but she later discovered she had heart failure. Watkins is among the 12 million adults misdiagnosed every year in the U.S. Experts emphasize the need to address this gender and minority disparity to ensure accurate and timely medical diagnoses.
Widespread Winter Weather Advisories Across the U.S.
Image: Rachel Mummey / Bloomberg via Getty Images
Tens of millions of people are under winter weather advisories as freezing temperatures, snow, and wind chill warnings grip the continental United States. The National Weather Service predicts temperatures as low as -30 degrees with wind chill in the Plains region and -50 degrees in Montana and the Dakotas. Communities across the country have already been impacted by winter storms, resulting in flight delays and hazardous conditions. Stay informed about the latest weather updates and take necessary precautions.
Navy SEALs Missing After Search Mission Near Somalia
Two Navy SEALs are missing after falling into rough nighttime seas during a raid off the coast of Somalia. The SEALs were searching sailboats in the Gulf of Aden for illegal goods like weapons or drugs. One sailor fell into the water, and another sailor jumped in to rescue them, but both disappeared into the darkness. Efforts are underway to locate and rescue the missing SEALs.
Gaza Bureau Chief’s Personal Tragedy Amid Israel-Hamas Conflict
Al Jazeera Gaza bureau chief, Wael Al Dahdouh, has suffered unimaginable personal loss while covering the Israel-Gaza conflict. Losing his wife, two sons, daughter, and grandson to Israeli airstrikes, Al Dahdouh remains committed to his role as a journalist. Despite the high cost and pain, he believes in delivering a humanitarian message and refuses to seek revenge. Al Dahdouh’s story sheds light on the toll of war on journalists and the power of resilience.
Bite Mark Analysis Flawed, Yet Still Used in Court
Keith Harward’s wrongful conviction showcases the flaws of bite mark analysis, a technique that lacks scientific credibility. Harward spent 33 years in prison for a rape and murder he did not commit, based largely on unreliable bite mark evidence. Four governmental bodies have discredited bite mark analysis, yet it continues to be used in criminal cases. Efforts are underway to ensure the exclusion of this flawed methodology from the justice system.
Homes Consumed by Lava in Iceland’s Volcanic Eruption
Image: AFP – Getty Images
Iceland is currently grappling with a volcanic eruption that is devouring homes in the town of Grindavik. The Reykjanes peninsula, home to a long-dormant volcanic system, has become a center of upheaval. Authorities ordered residents to evacuate as the volcano erupted for the second time in less than a month. The raw power of nature is on full display as molten lava engulfs the area.
Quick Political Updates
- Hunter Biden: House Republicans plan to issue new subpoenas for Hunter Biden, son of President Joe Biden. Hunter Biden’s lawyer has stated that he will comply if a proper subpoena is issued.
- Government Funding: House and Senate leaders have reached an agreement on a short-term spending deal to prevent a government shutdown. The deal will keep the government funded until March.
- Donald Trump: Public interest groups and lawmakers are concerned about the potential return of former President Donald Trump to power. Plans are being devised to counter any efforts by Trump to pressure the U.S. military for political gain.
Staff Pick: Upselling “Premium” Travel
Image: Leila Register / NBC News; Getty Images
Travel industry insiders reveal that consumers who have experienced luxury travel are now reluctant to go back to basic economy options. Airlines, hotels, and cruises are enticing passengers of all budgets to upgrade their travel experiences. By redefining what counts as “luxury” and offering more affordable upgrades, the travel industry aims to cater to a wider range of travelers.
That’s all for today’s Morning Rundown. Stay informed and share this newsletter with your family and friends. Sign up here to receive it directly in your inbox.